Fast Food & Dining Out Money Saving Tips

Dan commented to my article 14 Ways To Save On Groceries (http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977051504) with a question. His question was "Any tips for saving money at fast food joints Sara?? "

I thought to answer Dan and everyone else wondering, at the same time. Here are my money saving tips:

First and most obvious would be to pack a lunch from home. You can purchase far more groceries for the same money, you spend eating out.

Avoid Fast Food Places. Not only are they not real healthy, they will suck your wallet dry. AND leave you hungry in an hour. An alternative to fast food is your local deli's. Many are faster then fast food, you can get more and have some healthier choices.

If you must eat at fast food, use the value or dollar menu. Opt for water or getting a beverage somewhere else. No excuse to pay a $1 something for watered down soda.

Look for and use the coupons to resturants. Really read the coupon. Often you can get more then one item with the same coupon. Meaning if you can only use one coupon per visit but the purchase limit with coupon is 4. You could get 4 discounted meals. Really read those.

Coupon books. Many school bands, clubs and organizations are often selling Entertainment books. SPEND THE MONEY on one. It more then pays for itself fast! There are coupons in those for everything from food, bars, local comedy clubs, movies, grocery stores and more. Not only saving you on eating out but entertainment. They are usually $30 - $40. well worth it.

Eat at deli's or Ma & Pa places. Take your time and look for those out of the obvious places. Often you get a much better deal and better service.

Groups and families should go to buffet places. Pay one price for each meal. Then everyone can have just what they want and how much of it, without putting a hole in your pocket. Look for places that the drinks are included. Many of these places have Sunday specials, as well as evening specials through the week. Again, watch the paper and read those signs.

If you are eating on the go, take a beverage from home. Or at least the local vending machine. Suprisingly, vending machines are still the cheaper place to get a bottle of soda (and no tax!) Better yet, skip the drinks and opt for water. Healthier and a money saver.

If you go to a family style place, look for the family meals. they feed more then each individual. Also, if the portions are large get a plate and share it. Chances are you would be throwing a lot away anyway, so clean your plate and keep some pennies in your pocket.

Take home leftovers and freeze them immediately. Then when you get a craving for your favorite resturant, it's in your freezer!

Picnics. They have those cute on the go grills now. Get one for your trunk and add a tote of picnic supplies. You can feed a family much cheaper ducking into a grocery store for meat and chips, then taking everyone to a resturant. Plus, it's quality family time.

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Add your tips or comments, please.

Feel free to send me questions on Gather or ask them in your comments. I will answer them.