We’re 1/3 of the way through our series! Have you learned anything? Will you utilize any of the tips you’ve learned?
Tip 10
Today’s tip is simple, but can take some preparation – meal plan! I have saved so much money by meal planning! I clip those coupons I spoke about earlier, I check my pantry and freezer stock, and then I plan my weekly meals. I try to purchase my meats on sale and stock up my freezer. Because we try to eat healthy and as natural as possible, I try to not have beef more than twice a week and pork more than once a week. The other nights we eat chicken or fish. I also try to not repeat meals too often to help us not get burned out. We usually have Italian and Mexican once a week. Our budget is a very firm $150/week for our family of 3, though most weeks we don’t spend that much unless we need paper towels, toilet paper, dog food, etc. I keep a calendar on my fridge and try to plan a month at at time and do my shopping every week so that I have fresh produce on hand. I try to stick to my list as best as possible to stick to my budget! I prefer to not shop at big box stores to avoid tempting clothes racks and home goods.
Do you meal plan? What are your tips?
I feel good if I get a whole week planned out and you're doing a whole month. We do save money and eat healthy when I plan, that's for sure. I saw a menu sharing party somewhere…I meant to go check it out and get some ideas and now I can't remember where I saw it. Darn it. Would you like to share yours?
Of course I'll share! What would you like? Tips on HOW I menu plan? Menu plan ideas?