It’s hard to believe the kids have been back into school for months already. Many families have fallen into the busy schedule of practices, matches, games, and meets. Being on the go can easily lead to extra dollars spent picking up dinner through the drive thru or snagging a snack at the concession stand. Your budgeted dining out dollars dwindle before the month even begins and your hungry children never seem to be full. Fear not! Here are plenty of frugal snack ideas to keep families on the go full both in the belly and the wallet.
Portion out your own snacks
Multi-unit snack packs of chips are expensive enough when you purchase them at the grocery store. Buy them at a restaurant or at your child’s event and you’ll end up paying for a miniature portion close to what you’d pay for a full sized bag. An easy fix is to buy a larger bag and subdivide it almost immediately into zippered plastic baggies. Store them in a basket with easy access for lunch boxes, after school snacks, and a quick bite on the road.
Freeze some cookie dough
There’s still nothing like the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. It’s perhaps the most quintessential after school snack. However, the mess and time required to make cookies can often keep us from serving up this traditional snack. Certainly you can purchase ready made dough. However, you’ll save money and add a special touch by whipping up your secret family recipe and freezing it until you’re ready to use it. Spend a Saturday morning preparing a double batch and freeze the majority of it for a later day.
Go old school on your popcorn
One of our favorite affordable snacks, no matter the time of day, is popcorn. Since we don’t own a microwave, I learned how to prepare popcorn the good old fashioned way – on the stovetop. It’s actually very easy and the cost drops dramatically in comparison to the modern convenience method. Simply cover the bottom of a pan with oil (we use canola). Drop in two or three test kernels. Place the lid on top and heat at a medium temperature. Once you hear the kernels pop, sprinkle in a single layer of kernels, replace the lid, and shake occasionally. Once the popping slows, remove from the heat and pour into a bowl. Top with your favorite seasonings and munch away. Just like the chips, you can put together your own pre-portioned bags for later use.
When you can, choose fruits and veggies
I know it seems like fruits and vegetables are a more expensive option than quick grab snacks. However, an apple or some baby carrots can satiate your little one in a way that an empty calorie snack can’t. Packed with nutrients and minerals that your child’s body needs, healthier options will keep you and yours fuller for longer. The result is not only a better balanced diet but also a reduced bottom line. You’ll need to consume less when you make wise choices which means you’ll also spend less. Double bonus.
Plan your meals and your snacks
Taking a quick inventory of what you already have before you head to the grocery store is not only a great idea when it comes to meal planning but also for snacks. Make sure you use what you have before it expires, then build your list around the holes in your current supply.
Stockpile when you can
I love keeping a wide array of non-perishable goods on hand. That way, when we’re busy (or the weather prevents us from getting to the store) we’re able to keep everyone full and happy. Stockpiling snacks can be a great way to guarantee you won’t be left empty-handed. However, if this practice busts your weekly grocery budget, you should avoid it at all costs. Purchase an extra box when you have some wiggle room or if you can use a coupon to score it for free. But don’t use this method as an excuse to overspend. As a side note, it’s also wise to keep in mind that buying in bulk isn’t always the most economical practice. Keep a close eye on unit price or price per ounce. Just because you purchase the biggest box, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve gotten the best deal.
Like so many other areas, intentionality is the name of the game when it comes to snacking. Taking a few minutes to formulate a game plan can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. You can still be the best mom or dad EVER without hitting the drive thru daily after school. Keep their bellies and hearts as full as your bank account by using these simple tips.
Gain inspiration to pay off debt! Check out Inspiration to Pay Off Debt: 30 Days of Encouragement from the Queen of Free
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
