If you cook at home, you can eat very healthy meals for under $3/plate but going out to eat you can easily spend $10+ before adding in a nice tip!
Having a grocery list is probably the most important of these methods. If you stick to your list, then you’re going to have zero unanticipated expenses.
In other words, you’re going to be buying fresh meat, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and fresh dairy.
Name brands honestly are such a scam. You’re paying for a brand, and that’s it. You can’t tell the difference in quality, and if you say you can, you’re lying.
Avoid the Name Brands
It’s imperative to know how to calculate unit costs with items. Many stores will have the unit cost on the price tag, but not all will, or maybe the units vary slightly.
If you can meal prep and embrace the leftovers, you’re going to be able to not worry about having to throw out extra food.
Farmers’ markets are notorious for having cheap items when they’re in season, and they’re the definition of exceptional freshness.
Only let yourself go to a store once. The more you go, the less it means to have a grocery list because you can go back the next day.