You know it. We know it. Everyone is more than aware that times are tight at the moment. Living costs like bills, petrol and food are really putting a squeeze on household spending. But with a bit of forward planning and canny thinking, it can be a little easier on your wallet.
Read up on these handy tips on how you can make your dollars – and your kai – go a bit further.
At the beginning or end of each week, plan your meals to a set budget for your whanau. It’s a lot easier to stick to a set spending limit when you have a plan of what your kai is going to be for the week (and not spend above your limit). Look to purchase items that can potentially go the distance across multiple meals. Additionally, think about what’s already in your cupboard, fridge or freezer, and what can be used in upcoming meals.
When you have a shopping list, it’s easier to stick to your established budget and not go off the rails with those extras. You know the ones: chips, bikkies, that new limited edition novelty snack release that everyone’s been talking about on social media, etc.These spur-of-the-moment purchases can add up, and your wallet (and probably your waistline) will thank you for it later.
In-season veggies and produce are often cheaper than what isn’t in season! ($15 cauliflower, anyone?) Keep an eye out and make a mental note of cheaper veggies at the supermarket or greengrocer – these will be more affordable because there is more of them. If you want to do a bit of research before you head off for your shop, do a quick Google of what’s currently in season – check out vegetables.co.nz, online, Facebook or Instagram. They also have heaps of tips and info on YouTube!
This is a psychological battle. But you can win it. It’s scientifically proven that shopping on an empty stomach can spell disaster for your wallet – because you get tempted by your cravings. You know the deal: “Aw, yeah… I haven’t had those chocolate-covered salt and vinegar chips for a while. And they’re on special! I’ll just get 10.” That may be an extreme example, but you get the drift.
Avoid brands. Yes, the packaging is a bit more schmancy, but in-house supermarket brands are often more affordable and very similar in quality to the schmancy brands. Most of the time, you may not even notice the difference! Except in your wallet. Boom.
Meat can be an expensive cost and take up a big chunk of your food budget. Look for cheaper cuts that you can slow cook, and strategically keep an eye out for specials (a leg of lamb or pork on special can potentially be stretched out across multiple meals). You may also want to look at making more vegetarian-based meals, using proteins like lentils and beans, which can be bought in bulk and really go the distance.
It might not be an option for everyone (time, ravenous children, exerting energy you may not have), but baking your own bread, cakes or biscuits can really help save pennies – plus, you know exactly what ingredients are going into them! These items often have a high mark-up at supermarkets, so it may be worth investing in some basic baking ingredients that go a little further over time.
And don’t forget about mybudgetpal on the Booster app – it’s a great financial tool/buddy to help track your spending and better plan life’s expenses. Even better? It’s completely free.