Discover smart and easy ways to save money while eating these budget-friendly tips and strategies to save fast food!
Here are the guest posts from Todd Hebert by Glitchndealz:
In today’s economy, even a few times a week can create severe dents in your budget. But, if you are like many busy people, avoiding fast food is not always practical. Between busy schedules, after-school pickups and long work days, fast food is often the go-to.
How to save money on food:
Fortunately, there are many ways to enjoy dining out while still paying attention to your spending. By taking the right approach, you can enjoy the convenience of dining in the restaurant without the need for economical in-house.
1. Join the Loyalty Program
Many major chains offer free rewards programs that allow you to earn points per purchase. These points often lead to free food, discounts, or exclusive deals. Whether it’s McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, or Taco Bell, you can get a loyalty program quickly! Many people even offer free items for registration and free items on your birthday! This is an easy and passive way to save every time you order.
2. Exclusive offers with the Restaurant App
Downloading a restaurant-specific app is a wise move. Many apps have access to exclusive coupons, surprise rewards, and menu pricing using the app only. For example:
Not only are these applications a great way to save money, but they also make mobile ordering fast and convenient.
3. Find promotional codes and online deals
Take a minute to search for current restaurant deals before placing an order online or heading to the express train. Fast web searches often reveal discount codes, printable coupons and combinations that are not advertised in the store. These promotions change frequently, so maintaining knowledge is key to maximizing savings.
psst! We bring together the best restaurant offers and free food every day!
4. Check out daily specials
Fast food chains and casual restaurants often offer date-specific specials. Whether it’s Tuesday’s pizza or Tuesday’s wings, these rotation offers can change the game for budget-oriented diners. Plan your meals on these specialties and you can enjoy dining in the restaurant instead of paying for it at home.
5. Order the right way
Strategically with your orders, you can save instantly. Consider skipping combinations and ordering orders to avoid selling. You can usually save $2-$3 by avoiding the sides and drinks. If you are going to have a meal, provide a free cup of water instead of buying soda. As time goes by, these small choices add up.
6. Invade the child’s menu
Children’s meals are not only suitable for children. Many restaurants do not impose age restrictions on these smaller, low-priced meals. They are perfect for smaller appetites and are usually paired with drinks and one side, only a small portion of adult-sized meals. This is a budget-friendly option that many people overlook.
7. Using the Transaction Aggregator Site
Aggregate sites and mobile apps are a great way to track transactions from multiple restaurants. The platforms collect discounts, limited-time offers and ongoing specials from dozens of chain stores, all in one place. Subscribe to alerts for your favorite attractions to stay informed without having to constantly check individual sites. We regularly post restaurant deals and food freebies on our website every day!
8. Stack with cashback apps
Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Fetch Rewards let you buy cash at a restaurant. Some work directly with food chains, while others reward you with receipts uploaded. Combine these with loyalty points and online trading to save triple.
9. Avoid delivery fees
Delivery apps are handy, but they usually come with hidden costs such as delivery fees, service fees and tips that can be added up quickly. If possible, place an order directly through the restaurant’s app or website and select pickup. Many restaurants even offer curbside pickups, making it as easy as delivery, minus the extra cost.
10. Follow restaurants on social media
Social media is the gold mine for limited time and flash offers. Many brands have announced new promotions, product launches or giveaways through their social platforms. Favorite restaurants on Instagram, Facebook or X are an easy way to keep your savings curve ahead. (You can also follow our social page to follow the daily restaurant transaction alerts!)
The final thought
Dining out is not necessarily an expensive habit. By combining loyalty programs, smart ordering, trading apps and promo codes, you can significantly reduce your meal costs. Each meal can save a few extra steps throughout the week!
What is your favorite way to save food? We would love to hear them in the comments below!
You may also like:
Free Download: 60 Meals to Help You Avoid Takeout!
Meal time has become much easier!
