Search Results for: budget

14 Ways You’re Wasting Money on DoorDash and How to Stop

July 3, 2024 By Latrice Perez Leave a Comment

DoorDash is a convenient way to get food delivered right to your door, but it can also lead to unnecessary expenses if you’re not careful. Here are 14 ways you might be wasting money on DoorDash and practical tips to help you save.

1. Not Using Promo Codes

Promo codes are frequently available but often overlooked. By taking a few minutes to search for current promo codes, you can save a significant amount on your orders. Websites like RetailMeNot or Honey can help you find the latest discounts.

2. Ignoring Membership Programs

If you use DoorDash regularly, consider subscribing to DashPass. This membership program offers benefits like free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible orders. The monthly fee often pays for itself after just a few orders, making it a worthwhile investment.

3. Ordering During Peak Times

Delivery fees and surge pricing can be higher during peak hours. By ordering during off-peak times, you can avoid these extra costs. Planning your meals ahead can help you dodge these higher fees and save money.

4. Not Taking Advantage of Free Delivery Offers

Many restaurants offer free delivery promotions, especially for first-time customers. Keep an eye out for these deals and plan your orders accordingly. Free delivery can significantly reduce the overall cost of your meal.

5. Adding Too Many Extras

It’s easy to get carried away with adding sides, drinks, and desserts to your order. These extras can quickly increase your total cost. Stick to the essentials to keep your spending in check.

6. Forgetting About Service Fees

Service fees are often added to your total without you noticing. These fees can add up over time, making each order more expensive than it initially appears. Be aware of these fees and factor them into your decision to order.

7. Not Comparing Prices

Some restaurants have different prices on DoorDash compared to their in-house menu. Always check the restaurant’s own website or call to compare prices before ordering through the app. This small step can save you from paying inflated prices.

8. Overlooking Pickup Options

Many restaurants offer the option to pick up your order instead of having it delivered. Choosing pickup can save you both delivery fees and tips. This option is particularly useful if the restaurant is nearby and convenient to reach.

9. Ignoring Bundle Deals

Some restaurants offer bundle deals that include multiple items at a discounted price. Look for these deals to get more value from your order. Bundles can provide a variety of food for less money than ordering items individually.

10. Forgetting About Leftovers

Ordering enough for leftovers can provide you with an additional meal, stretching your dollar further. Plan your orders with future meals in mind. This strategy not only saves money but also time on cooking and ordering again.

11. Not Using a Rewards Credit Card

Use a rewards credit card to pay for your orders. This way, you can earn points, cashback, or other rewards on every purchase. Over time, these rewards can add up to significant savings or benefits.

12. Ignoring Seasonal Promotions

DoorDash often runs seasonal promotions with significant discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers and take advantage of them. Seasonal promotions can provide substantial savings on your favorite meals.

13. Not Setting a Budget

It’s easy to lose track of how much you’re spending on food delivery. Set a monthly budget for DoorDash and stick to it to avoid overspending. A budget helps you manage your finances better and ensures you don’t spend more than you intend.

14. Forgetting to Tip Wisely

While tipping is important, over-tipping can add up. Tip reasonably based on the service and consider the delivery fee you’re already paying. Being mindful of your tips can help you save money over time.

Conclusion

By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can enjoy the convenience of DoorDash without breaking the bank. Implementing these tips will help you make smarter choices and save money on your food deliveries. With a little planning and awareness, you can make DoorDash a more cost-effective part of your dining routine.

15 Expenses Middle-Class Americans Are Saying “No” To

June 24, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

In a rapidly changing economy, middle-class Americans are continuously reassessing their spending habits. As costs of living rise and financial priorities shift, many are choosing to cut unnecessary expenses they honestly don’t need in this modern world. Whether it’s cable TV or landline phones, these items turn out to be a huge waste of their hard-earned money. Here are 15 common expenses that middle-class families are cutting from their budgets.

1. Cable TV Subscriptions

With Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and many other streaming services, it’s pointless to continue to pay for a traditional cable TV subscription. Middle-class families are turning away from cable TV due to long-term contracts and high initial costs. Streaming services are more budget-friendly, whether you’re paying for just one app or downloading them all. Time will tell how streaming will change entertainment in the future.

2. New Cars

In many cases, it’s less lucrative for you to buy a new car than it is to shell out money on a used one. Given the high depreciation rates of new vehicles, middle-class buyers are increasingly following this trend by purchasing used. A pre-owned vehicle can save thousands of dollars while still providing reliable transportation. The move toward being used is further bolstered by the improved quality and longevity of older cars.

3. Luxury Brands

Gucci, Prada, Vera Wang. Luxury goods brands like these, once a staple marker of middle-class prosperity, are being bypassed for more affordable alternatives. The emphasis has shifted towards quality and value over brand name prestige. It’s just not worth spending thousands of dollars on the latest designer jacket, purse, or watch.

4. High-End Smartphones

According to recent data, over 7 billion people around the world own a smartphone. These tech gadgets will always be popular, but many consumers are skipping the latest models to cut unnecessary expenses. Instead of upgrading every year, people are holding onto their phones longer. They’re also opting for mid-range models that offer most of the high-end features at a fraction of the price.

5. Eating Out Frequently

It’s always fun to try dishes, share drinks with friends, and take in the environment at a new restaurant. However, dining out frequently is a costly habit that many are avoiding. Cooking at home saves money but also promotes a healthier lifestyle since you ultimately eat fewer calories. Families are investing time in meal planning and preparation as a cost-effective alternative to eating out.

6. Gym Memberships

Why bother with an expensive gym membership when you can work out at home? Many middle-class Americans are forgoing the gym in favor of body weight exercises, outdoor runs, and YouTube workout videos, all of which are free. Working out at home or outdoors provides the same benefits without the hefty monthly fees. Plus, you’re more likely to stay on track since it can sometimes be inconvenient to make it to the gym.

7. Daily Coffee Shop Visits

Starbucks claims they’re at a “new era of growth” with more than 38,000 stores worldwide. As the brand grows, people are skipping coffee shop visits to instead brew their daily fix of caffeine at home. Middle-class Americans are using Keurig machines, fancy espresso makers, and other machines, enjoying significant savings. Investing in a good coffee maker pays off in the long run, reducing the temptation to splurge on overpriced coffee.

8. Trendy Fashion

Fashion trends come and go, which is why it’s still to waste money on the fads. Instead of chasing the latest style, there’s a growing preference for classic, versatile pieces that last longer. Many American adults, especially women, are opting for capsule wardrobes. Small collections of timeless garments reduce the need for frequent shopping.

9. Impulse Purchases

Be careful when you go to the store. You may find yourself making impulse purchases of items you don’t need. With better budgeting practices, middle-class families are avoiding these impulse buys. Shopping lists and planned purchases are becoming the norm to avoid unnecessary spending, even when it comes to online shopping.

10. Premium Credit Cards

Banks will send you emails about credit cards that seem too good to be true. These premium credit cards come with high annual fees. Thankfully, many middle-class adults are swapping out these money drainers for no-fee or low-fee alternatives. These cards align better with their spending patterns and financial benefits, rather than paying for prestige or unnecessary rewards.

11. Excessive Holiday Spending

Americans spend about $1,000 on holiday gifts each season. For that reason, there’s a conscious effort to reduce spending, focusing on meaningful experiences rather than extravagant gifts. Homemade gifts, tickets for events, and photo books are popular, low-cost gifts to give away for Christmas, birthdays, and other special occasions. It’s just not lucrative to spend thousands on junk that people honestly don’t need.

12. Hair Services

Women love to go to the salon to get their hair cut, colored, and styled. While this luxury purchase and bit of self-care can be worth the investment, many middle-class women are taking a hiatus from expensive salons. At-home hair coloring and low-maintenance cuts are becoming more popular in recent years. People want to reduce their spending, even if it means changing up their look.

13. Luxury Vacations

A vacation to the Bahamas sounds amazing, but the costs for airfare, hotel, food, and entertainment can really add up. Instead of expensive international trips like this, many middle-class families are exploring local or less expensive travel destinations. A short road trip to a town a few hours away can offer just as much fun and relaxation as the pricier destinations. By traveling this way, you will not only save money but also support local economies and reduces travel stress.

14. Organic Groceries

Healthy eating remains a priority, but the high cost of organic products can make it challenging. Shoppers are becoming more selective, purchasing organic items only when the benefits clearly outweigh the cost. They’re also looking at the list of the “Dirty Dozen” fruits and vegetables known for high pesticide levels, purchasing only those items organically. Everything else is fair game to buy without the “organic” or “naturally grown” label.

15. Landline Phones

Your grandmother may still have a landline phone, but owning one is pretty rare these days. With the ubiquity of mobile phones, the traditional landline is becoming obsolete in many households. Cutting the landline can save on monthly bills and simplify communications. Plus, it’s one less phone number for everyone to remember!

Better Spending

Middle-class Americans are becoming increasingly savvy about where their money goes. By cutting down on unnecessary expenses, they can manager their budgets more effectively. It’s all about prioritizing needs over wants, so you can live comfortably without sacrificing financial security. Smart spending always pays off in the long run.

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7 Places You Are Wasting Money on Fast Food

June 13, 2024 By Catherine Reed Leave a Comment

Fast food is often a convenient option for a quick meal, but there are certain places where it’s better to avoid spending your hard-earned money on fast food. Whether due to health concerns, high prices, or simply poor quality, knowing where to skip the fast food can save you from wasting money on disappointing meals. With an increasing focus on health and budget-conscious living, it’s crucial to identify these locations. Here are seven places you should stop wasting money on food.

1. Tourist Traps

Fast food restaurants in popular tourist areas often charge higher prices for the same items you could find elsewhere. These establishments take advantage of the high foot traffic and limited dining options available to tourists. Food quality can also be subpar as these locations prioritize speed and volume over quality. Instead of wasting money on overpriced and mediocre fast food, seek local eateries offering a more authentic and affordable dining experience.

2. Airports

Airport fast food options are significantly more expensive than their counterparts outside. The convenience of grabbing a quick bite before a flight often comes at a premium, with inflated prices for basic menu items. Additionally, the quality and freshness of the food can be compromised due to the high turnover and the logistical challenges of airport catering. To avoid wasting money on overpriced and potentially lackluster meals, consider bringing snacks or dining before heading to the airport.

3. Gas Stations

While it might be tempting to grab a quick meal at a gas station fast food outlet during a road trip, these locations often offer low-quality options. The focus is typically on convenience rather than nutrition or taste, resulting in meals that may be greasy, stale, or lacking in flavor. Moreover, the limited selection at these spots can leave you with few healthy choices. Instead of wasting money on food that is unsatisfying, plan your stops at reputable restaurants along your route.

4. Sports Venues

Fast food at sports venues is notoriously overpriced, inflating prices to capitalize on the captive audience. The food quality often doesn’t match the high cost, leaving you with an expensive yet unsatisfying meal. Additionally, the limited options available at these venues can mean sacrificing nutritional value for convenience. Avoid wasting money on overpriced fast food at sports events by eating beforehand or bringing your own snacks if allowed.

5. Amusement Parks

Fast food in amusement parks can be shockingly expensive, with prices reflecting the high demand and exclusive access. Plus, inflation and other factors are pushing prices up even more. The quality often falls short as well, with food that may be pre-made and reheated rather than freshly prepared. The combination of high prices and mediocre quality makes amusement park fast food a poor investment. To save money and enjoy better meals, consider packing your own food or leaving the park for meals if possible.

6. Highway Rest Stops

Highway rest stops often feature fast food outlets that cater to travelers looking for a quick bite. However, these locations typically offer overpriced and uninspired menu options. The convenience comes at the cost of quality and value, with meals that are often less satisfying than those from standalone restaurants. Instead of wasting money on highway rest stop fast food, plan your stops at well-reviewed local diners or restaurants just off the highway.

7. Train Stations

Similar to airports, train stations often feature fast food options that are both overpriced and of questionable quality. The convenience of grabbing a quick meal before boarding comes at a significant markup, with limited choices that may not meet your taste or nutritional standards. The rush to serve many passengers quickly can also impact the freshness and overall quality of the food. To avoid wasting money on subpar fast food at train stations, plan your meals ahead or explore dining options near the station.

Stay on Budget by Not Wasting Money on Fast Food!

Avoiding fast food in these seven places can help you save money and enjoy better meals. By being mindful of where you spend your money on food, you can make healthier and more satisfying choices. Whether traveling or enjoying a local outing, planning your meals and seeking out quality options can enhance your overall experience. Stay conscious of these common fast food pitfalls to avoid wasting money on disappointing meals.

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