Thanksgiving shopping can be much easier and less expensive if you budget now. When you go to the supermarket with your shopping list, be sure to use your Daily Rewards Debit card at checkout. You’ll receive 2 cents for every purchase. With so many items to buy, the deposits will add up.
Here’s how to trim your food expenses and better enjoy the holiday:
- Create a classic menu that includes all dishes you plan to serve, from appetizers to desserts. Buy turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables, which are often less expensive than gourmet dishes.
- Squash, potatoes, apples and other seasonal items are usually cheaper and can be used in various dishes. Start shopping now for sale items that can be stored in the pantry or freezer.
- Not sure whether to buy a name-brand or store-brand turkey? The latter can be just as good at a fraction of the cost. With a bit of research, you may find that both brands buy from the same supplier.
- Buy larger amounts of needed items if they cost less per unit. For example, purchase the bigger bag if a 10-pound bag of flour or sugar costs less per pound than a 5-pound bag. Use what you need for Thanksgiving and store the rest. There are more holidays to come in December. Similarly, purchase more frozen and canned food for dinner and store the rest, especially if the larger size is on sale.
- Bake, not buy. Yes, frozen and store-fresh pies may taste good, but they are a lot more expensive. So are side dishes. Make your menu items; your family recipe may be better; it will very likely be less costly. Don’t like to bake? Read below for proper etiquette for asking guests to bring their homemade items.
- Shop and cook for more than one meal and save the leftovers for the following weeks. For example, if you serve green beans or mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving, save the unserved portions with chicken or another entrée the week after. Buy a larger turkey and use the extra breast slices in sandwiches.
- Don’t wait until Nov. 28 to start cooking. Prepare dishes ahead of time to save time and enjoy the day more. You can bake pies and make side dishes a day or two before Thanksgiving. You’ll appreciate having a few hours for yourself, family, and friends and having an easier time preparing and cooking the turkey.
- It’s socially acceptable to ask guests to bring something to Thanksgiving dinner. Their contributions will save you money and time. Be specific so that the food items fit or complement your menu plan. Without your guidance, a well-meaning individual may contribute an appetizer, dessert or side dish that they, but no one else, likes.
- Create a snack station and serve inexpensive appetizers like vegetables and dip or cheese and crackers. Guests can bring the items, saving you money and the trouble of keeping everyone fed.
