Looking for ways to save money on the road? Rethinking your meals, groceries, and other food choices can help you stick to your budget while camping. From skipping on appetizers to planning grocery lists ahead of time, there are a few easy things you can do to cut back on costs when camping.
Here are a few tips for saving money on meals and groceries while RVing:
Tips for dining out
Download restaurant apps. For restaurants you visit frequently, download their apps to receive coupons, discounts, or redeem points toward free meals and other rewards.
Share plates. For bigger meals, consider splitting your food with a family member, or order family-sized portions to cut back on the price of each individual meal.
Skip alcohol and soda. Drink water instead of spending money on alcoholic beverages, sodas, and other higher-priced drinks.
Dine during lunch. Instead of waiting for dinner to come around, go out to eat during lunch hours to take advantage of lunch specials and other discounts.
Don’t order appetizers. By passing on appetizers you can not only save money on your meal, but you can also ensure that you’re saving your appetite for the main course.
Avoid holidays. Save yourself from the crowds and higher dining costs by avoiding restaurants during busy holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.
Ask about kids. At some restaurants, kids can eat for free or at a discounted price. Don’t be afraid to ask your server about kid specials, or research the restaurant before your arrival.
Use the kids’ menu. Choose a meal from the kids’ menu (if the restaurant allows) for a cheaper meal.
Groceries
Plan your list. Try to plan meals ahead of time so you know exactly what you need at the grocery store. This will help you reduce both costs and food waste.
Online ordering. When available, order your groceries online so you don’t have to go inside the store. This will save time and help prevent you from spending more than you need.
Shop at discount stores. Find the nearest discount grocery when you arrive at the campground. From Walmart to Trader Joe’s, these stores can help you save on food, at home or in the RV.
Know your spending. Keep track of your grocery expenses while shopping. This will help you avoid impulse spending and stick to your budget.
Bring bags. Some stores don’t offer shopping bags, meaning you might have to purchase bags or boxes to carry your items to your vehicle. By bringing your own reusable bags with you, you can avoid unexpected bagging costs.
Eat before you go. Grocery shopping while you’re hungry can lead to overspending and impulse purchases. Eat at least a light meal or snack before your shopping trip to keep your appetite at bay.
Don’t buy precut. Instead of paying more for precut foods, take a little extra time to cut and prep your meats, vegetables, and other items once you get home.
Keep the spenders at the campground. If your spouse, kids, or other family members tend to break your budget at the grocery store, consider leaving them back at the campground when you’re heading to the store.
Buy generic. Like everything, name-brand items cost more. Try to purchase generic food items whenever possible to reduce your grocery costs.
Eat leftovers. Cook bigger meals that give you leftovers to eat more than once within a week.
21 июл 2024
