Fast food is very accessible and easy to acquire if one is on the move most of the time, and the end up costing a lot. But that’s where a little planning comes in – you can easily get the most out of your money while still indulging in your favorite fast food fix. Below are the best ways to make sure that you get the most out of your money when at fast food joints.
1. Take Advantage of Value Menus
Almost all fast foods have a special value meal, which may be a smaller serving of the most ordered foods or an easy-to-produce selection of foods at a relatively lower price. These items can be very cheap in case you’re running out of time and you do not want to spend so much money on food. McDonalds Dollar Menu, Wendys 4 for $4, or Taco Bell Cravings Menu give a list of options that allow you to dine inexpensively while not feeling like you have had to sacrifice taste.
2. Use Rewards Programs and Apps
Most of the fast foods restaurants have loyalty programs and mobile applications with better discounts and offers. Registering into these programs can lead to free products, cheaper prices on foods that you like or a promotion like a BOGO or Buy One, Get One. Many big names like Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Starbucks all have a great app-based loyalty program. Besides, getting the apps themselves can also grant the ability to order ahead, thus speeding up your experience.
3. Look for Combo Meals
As most people know meals that come in a combo usually cost less than if you were to order the meals individually. Such meals can be a main dish, a side dish, and a drink which are packaged and sold at a cheaper price than when sold individually. Before you order individual items, look at the combos offered to make sure you can make some savings. Some places will allow you to swap the drink for something else, or you can skip it and get a discount even if you do not want a drink.
4. Avoid Upsizing Your Meal
Even though a small additional charge can be made for increasing portion size of fries or the drink, it is rarely justified. The distinction between a medium and a large fries may not be worth the extra dollar or two especially when one is working to a certain cash limit. However, it is advised to go with the regular sizes to cut out on the expenses.
5. Share Large Portions
Most fast foods joints provide portions that are bigger than can be consumed in a single setting. Sharing a large portion of a meal with a friend or a family member can prove help save so much money. For instance, a big pizza from dominos or a bucket of chicken from KFC will be enough for two people, which makes it cheaper.
6. Go for Water Instead of Soda
Beverages especially sodas can escalate the cost of a meal by a large margin. Instead of buying a soda, make the switch to water to reduce the total cost. A lot of the fast foods provide free cups of water and it is definitely a better option to change to water. You can save your money and get healthier – that is the best thing you can do!
7. Order Off the Kids’ Menu
The best way to save money is if you want less food, you can always order from the kids’ menu. Almost all fast food chains offer cheap packages of children meals, which are just right for a bite or a mini meal. Besides, they usually come with a drink and, sometimes, a side, which makes it very affordable.
8. Check for Coupons and Deals
Never leave for the fast food place without checking for coupons available on the internet. Most fast foods operators have mobile application and websites where they frequently advertise discounted prices. Besides, one can use coupons or offers of Groupon or any local coupons apps to look for more discounts. The search can take only a few minutes, but it can help to save a good deal of money.
Final Thoughts
Well, fast food restaurant menu is cheap if you know how to order for it and when there are offers to be made, when to take them. With value menus, rewards programs, and no frills add-ons, it is possible to get the greatest value for your money and still have good food to eat. No matter if you are making a quick run to buy a burger or some fries, the following tips will assist you in eating healthy and still enjoy your meal.
