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Tips for ordering takeout without busting budget
And according to a recent survey from TopCashback.com, 35 percent of Americans are ordering more food for takeout and delivery than they were a month ago.
Here are seven tips from Rebecca Gramuglia, consumer expert at TopCashback.com, to help make cravings a little easier on the budget:
* FREEZE FOR LATER. Order (takeout or delivery) strategically so that you have leftovers for another meal, be it tomorrow’s lunch or another night’s dinner. Anything you don’t eat can simply be frozen for later. Whether it’s multiple portions or a large catering tray, keeping these meals for another time will save you money for future dates and will also support your local businesses.
* FOLLOW RESTAURANTS AND LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA. In our digital-driven world, social media tends to be the first spot people check for updates on anything and everything. So, be sure to follow your favorite eateries on social media to see if they post special promotions and deals. If you don’t see any specials online, call the restaurant.
* JOIN A DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE. If you’re having food delivered to your home on a regular basis, consider signing up for a subscription service like Postmates Unlimited. For $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually, you’ll receive free delivery on all orders over $12. Aside from free delivery, you’ll also avoid blitz pricing at peak hours and gain exclusive access to giveaways, special offers and events.
* LOOK FOR DISCOUNTS. The best way to save money is by bundling coupons, deals and cashback to maximize your savings while dining out. If you’re new to online delivery services, some, like DoorDash and GrubHub have discounts for first-time users.
* BUY DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS. Stretch your money a little further by purchasing a discounted gift card for your favorite restaurant. You can save 10 to 20 percent by buying someone’s unwanted gift card from sites like Raise. Stack the savings by buying discounted gift cards through rebate websites.
* CHARGE IT. If you’re a major foodie, look for credit cards that will earn you cash back at restaurants.
* CONSIDER CONTACT-LESS CURBSIDE. To avoid paying a delivery fee, see if your local restaurant offers contact-less curbside pick-up. It’s easy and safe. Typically, all you have to do is place your order over the phone and once you’re ready to pick up your food at the restaurant, call inside to let them know you’re there and they will leave it outside for you.
