I (single, no kids) made the New Year resolution to mostly cut out eating out and making meals from scratch to save money. I just noticed my YTD trend. Congratulations I have spent $400 less on fast food and restaurants from this same time last year. Yay, right? Only no, I have spent a total of $800 more at grocery stores. Meaning I have actually spent MORE on food this year than last year. I don't know why it is up, because I feel like I am careful when I go to the grocery store, and only buy meals that are discounted. My guess is that I am more willing to purchase a soda or treats when at restaurants I only drink water and no dessert and typically make my meals last 2 meals. It's discouraging because I've been trying to be more money conscious and shopping around for the best deals/sales. Does anyone else struggle with grocery shopping budgeting? Is it possible that eating out can be better for your wallet in the long run? Any advice?
UPDATE: For those wondering, I don't typically buy prepackaged meals. Along with saving money, another motivation was to eat healthier. I make all my meals from scratch. Typically I make 2 meals during the week, one I make enough for all my lunches that I leave at work. The other I make for all my dinners and leave at home. I only eat out on the weekends. For example, last weeks meals were porkloin and salad for lunch, and chipotle chicken tacos with slaw for dinner. I don't think budgeting for meal prep is my issue. I keep track of average/sale prices of produce and meats and I will only purchase if it is been sold cheaper than what I deem a cheap price. That's what makes me think it is the impulse buying. I've never thought of myself of an impulse buyer, but I have noticed when I go into the store for one ingredient I come out with a bag full. I don't have the urge to buy things I don't need at a restaurant. Another issue is that as a single person that lives alone, a lot of food rots before I get a chance to use it, meaning I rebuy the same item.
Submitted September 06, 2018 at 11:54AM by liquid_ice56 https://ift.tt/2PKqUu1
