When I try to cut costs down, the “Entertainment” section of my budget is usually the first to go. We allocate money for things like going out to dinner or having drinks with friends, but nights like these are at the bottom of our financial priority list. Not only will eating at home save you money, but it’ll also keep you healthier. However, despite my best intentions, I sometimes find myself too tired or too short on time to cook after a long day at work. It can be a great relief to have someone else do all of the work, not to mention enjoyable, but how can you be sure you’re not living beyond your means? There are smarter ways to dine out and still have fun (and relax!), all while saving money. Check out a few of the tips below the next time you head out to eat…
1. Budget it in! You’re less likely to overspend if you’ve already set aside funds just for going out to eat. If trying new restaurants and dining out with friends is something you truly love doing, see how you can fit it into your monthly expenses. Are there other areas of your budget where you can trim costs?
2. Be conscious of portion sizes. Meals served in restaurants are often a lot larger than what we would serve ourselves at home. Consider splitting an entree (and the bill!) with a friend. You could also split your meal in half and save a portion for lunch the next day, eliminating the need to dine out two days in a row. Other great options to consider are the appetizer and “lighter fare” sections of the menu, which generally offer smaller portions for less money.
3. Reconsider your beverage choices. I used to always order a glass of soda with meals, and breaking that habit was incredibly hard. After a few months of growing accustomed to drinking water with dinner, I realized that it wasn’t just better for my health, it was also better for my wallet! Be aware of the alcohol you consume with meals as well, as adult beverages are what really drive your bill up. Limit yourself to one or two drinks, or better yet, look for restaurants that are BYOB!
4. Check for deals. Many restaurants promote deals or special offers through discount sites like Groupon or LivingSocial. Check for coupons or vouchers online before you head out to eat! This is also a great way to try new places without spending a fortune, especially if you’re not sure how much you’ll like it. Also be aware of nightly specials and promotions (i.e. half-off appetizers during Happy Hour, 25-cent Wing Night, etc.). It’s a good idea to skim over a restaurant’s website to see what they have on their calendar.
5. Dine at off-times. We’re big fans of the Early Bird Special. Since we get up so early every day, we find ourselves ready for dinner earlier than most other people. Some restaurants offer deals if you dine with them after the lunch rush or before dinnertime. You’ll save a little extra money AND beat the crowds!
How often do you dine out? Do you find it unavoidable? What are some of the other tricks you use to avoid overspending when you go out to eat?
