You\u2019re not alone if your food delivery app gets more action than it should. Between busy schedules, stress and the sheer convenience of delivery apps, ordering in can feel like a way to be kind to yourself. But beware \u2014 eating out as a habit can make overspending a practice, too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how you can cut back on delivery, save money<\/a> and still come home to a meal you\u2019re excited to eat.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes, it can be easy to dupe ourselves into thinking that takeout isn\u2019t that <\/em>much more expensive than cooking. But then you add on the delivery fees, app charges and tip, and what was once a $15 meal has spiraled into a $30 splurge. Even ordering in one per week can add up to over $100 per month \u2014 and that\u2019s no small change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re feeling that strain in your budget<\/a>, you need a new strategy (not another coupon for 20% off). Your goal should be to have easy, nutritious meals ready when you need them, while still budgeting for takeout once in a while.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mark the days you most want takeout ahead of time \u2014 whether that\u2019s to coincide with a Friday night movie night, or following a long day of travel. Look ahead at your calendar to compare other events that require going out to eat, or expenses that might veer into what you\u2019re comfortable spending on delivery each month. The fewer surprises and temptations to impulse-order, the better!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stock your freezer and fridge with effortless meals<\/a> to make the urge to order food a non-issue. Bagged, pre-assembled salads, frozen pizzas or done-in-ten-minutes pastas can curb cravings and keep you fed on the cheap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ever heard \u201cout of sight, out of mind?\u201d That applies to your phone screen, too. Delete your food delivery apps to curb the impulse to peek at your options \u2014 the less attention you give to things you don\u2019t need, the less likely you are to buy them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Double a favorite recipe, then freeze the leftovers in portions \u2014 that makes a home-cooked meal only minutes away, and keeps you from getting burnt out on the same meal day after day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To make shifting from takeout feel like a win, track how much you\u2019re saving each month<\/a>. When you have the proof of your efforts in front of you, it\u2019s easier to keep going (and appreciate the luxury of delivery more!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re figuring out a money makeover,<\/a> call Accredited Debt Relief. Our debt consolidation services can save you 40% or more on eligible monthly payments \u2014 and even help you get free from unsecured debt in as little as 24-48 months.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Convenience Premium<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5 Ways to Make Mealtime Simple<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Plan Eating Out Ahead of Time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Keep Easy Options On-Hand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Ditch Your Delivery Apps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Cook For Leftovers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Track savings, not just spending.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Looking for More Ways to Save?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Get Cookin\u2019<\/h3>\n\n\n