The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way we eat — from stocking up on groceries and turning our kitchens into restaurants to ordering takeout and delivery as much as possible.
Now, many of us are starting to see the economic toll the pandemic has taken on our wallets.
If you have a tight budget, you may be wondering if you can keep ordering food from your favorite restaurants. The good news is that with a little planning, food delivery can still fit in your budget.
If you’re trying to save money and eat healthier, skip the restaurant and make your own food at home. But if you’re going to order food delivery or pick up takeout anyway, here are some ways to save money and still indulge in a meal that someone else made for you:
- Sign up for rewards programs. Many restaurants offer rewards programs that give you points for every dollar you spend. You can usually use these points to redeem free meals, so be sure to sign up for the rewards program next time you order from your favorite restaurant.
- Choose carryout over delivery. When you have food delivered to your door — as opposed to picking it up yourself — you’ll pay extra for the convenience. Plus, there’s often a minimum amount that needs to be spent before your delivery order is even eligible (the delivery fee doesn’t cover itself). If possible, choose carryout over delivery.
- Use credit card rewards. Some cards offer rewards for using them at specific restaurants or for food delivery services.
- Pick your platform carefully. There are more services than ever to get food delivered right to your door, but each one comes with its own costs and fees. Some offer subscriptions that allow you to skip their fees, while others may waive them for certain restaurants or types of orders.
