Five Tips to Save Money on Holiday Food This Year
The news about inflation and the increase in food prices feels like a broken record. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like families will get any relief going into the holidays. And when we think of Thanksgiving, Christmas, holiday parties, and seasonal baking, food plays a central part in most holiday festivities.
The cost of the additional food items to fulfill our holiday menus can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. If you’re planning on cooking this holiday season, whether hosting a gathering or bringing a dish to pass, we’ve put together some ideas to help you save money and enjoy great holiday food on a budget.
Take Advantage of Frozen Food
Frozen foods can be up to 50% cheaper than fresh foods, and they are often just as healthy if not healthier than their fresh food counterparts. Best of all, you can buy frozen foods well in advance to take advantage of pre-holiday sales and lower prices.
Be Flexible with Sides
You may have your heart set on the main entree but be open to new or different side dishes to help stretch your budget – especially if your main dish is expensive. Shop your local discount food retailer for vegetable or pre-made side dishes that complement your meal without breaking your bank account.
Start New Traditions
Consider appetizers or a pot-luck-style meal this year if you always serve a big sit-down meal. Incorporate less expensive food items that can still make a big impact, such as a pasta dish – hello, holiday lasagna! Shop with an open mind to take advantage of specials or new food items that you may not have thought of otherwise.
Plan and Shop Early
You’ll find plenty of good deals on food leading up to the holidays. Planning your menu ahead of time allows you to take advantage of deals rather than waiting until the last minute and feeling the pressure of buying food at full price. You’ll be able to buy a little at a time too, so when you see something on your list at a great price, you can snatch it up! This also helps spread the expense over time.
Keep it Simple
The holidays are about spending quality time with those we care about the most. By keeping your meal simple, you’ll likely be able to find the ingredients early or on sale. You’ll also avoid the stress that comes with preparing an elaborate menu.
Planning and an open mind can help stretch your food budget this holiday season. And when you shop at a local discount food retailer like Daily Deals, you’ll know you’re always getting the best price.
Five Daily Deals locations across West Michigan offer a variety of grocery items, including produce, dairy, snacks, frozen meals, appetizers, meat, and more. We stock each location with name-brand products at lower prices than you find at larger grocery stores. When food companies have an overstock of products, we purchase the food for less and pass the savings to you. In addition to everyday cost savings, Daily Deals offers weekly specials and a rewards program.
Find a Daily Deals near you and get a jump on your holiday meal shopping.