Inexpensive Options for Snacking Out

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

19 Feb 2009 07:49 AM

Even though we try to eat at home most of the time to save money, the reality is that we have kids. And, even though we can feed them before the house, the reality is that there are often frequent "snack attacks" when the kids get hungry. I try to prepare for this fact by keeping a cooler by the door that is filled with water, granola bars, crackers, fruit, etc. that can be grabbed when we leave the house. Inevitably, though, we sometimes get caught with being away from home without snacks. With three hungry kids, as well as two adults, this can get a little expensive. I've developed some strategies to help curb the expense when we do need to do some snacking out.

Look for the non-obvious snacks

Sure, you could go and buy nachos, a bunch or pretzels or stop at a fast food joint, but first look around for less expensive options that could serve as snacks. At a farmer's market, for example, we went past all of the fast food to buy a loaf of homemade cinnamon bread at an Amish bakery. The large loaf was under $3 and filled all five of us up.

Hit the grocery store

Grocery stores are great sources of snacks, and you can stop by one when you are out just to grab something quick to eat. There is so much available. Some of our favorite grocery store snacks include a box of generic cereal, fresh bread or rolls, cheese sticks, crackers and fruit.

Keep coupons in the car

We took advantage of the McDonalds valentine booklets. For one dollar, we got more than $14 worth of free coupons for items such as hamburgers, small ice cream cones, apples, fries, milk, etc. We also have coupons for other restaurants. Save any "snack type" coupons, so that if you have to purchase snacks, at least you'll save some money.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

Favorite Deal Websites:

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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MegfromAllAboutAppearances (330) 19 Feb 2009 11:47 AM

For a snack, I really like nuts. Nuts are super healthy. They're low carb and full of protein, fiber, minerals, & healthy fats that also help you feel satiated. Walnuts are especially good for their high omega 3 content.

Little bags of nuts can be pricey, but get them from bulk bins or buy large bags at Sam's Club and then they're super cheap -- especially when you compare their nutritional value to a lot of other snacks.

I keep a small jar in the fridge full of different nuts so that I can grab it and go at a moment's notice.

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 20 Feb 2009 01:27 PM

Nuts are great. They are so good for you! Just be aware when sharing, of course, that they are one of the foods that can cause life threatening allergies. I always seem to have extra kids with me :)