The holidays are a stressful time for many people, especially if you’re feeling strapped for cash. If you’re wondering how to feed everyone for Thanksgiving this year, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on to learn tips for how to save money on everything from Thanksgiving dinner to travel.
Make a Grocery List & Budget
Before you go out to do your Thanksgiving shopping, it’s best to have a plan. Creating a budget for Thanksgiving can keep your spending on track and keep you from overspending or making impulse purchases.
If you create a budget in conjunction with your grocery list for Thanksgiving dinner, you should have a solid idea of how much you can and are willing to spend.
Share the Costs
One of the easiest ways to spend less on Thanksgiving is to share the costs of food with other people who will be attending.
Whether you want to make it potluck-style or ask people to bring specific dishes, your guests can share the load to take some of the financial burden off you.
Spread out your spending (and then the butter!)
Some Thanksgiving items can be purchased before the week of Thanksgiving, which makes it easier on your budget compared to buying everything at once. You may even discover coupons or deals in the meantime.
Items like plates, napkins, cups, and decorations can be purchased anytime. For an added savings bonus, you can DIY your own decor and use reusable dinner items.
Canned goods are a great choice for budget-friendly dinner items. Not only are canned goods affordable, but they can be purchased well in advance. Other items like wine and beverages can also be purchased ahead of time.
While not all vegetables can be purchased early, some, like potatoes and onions, have longer shelf life than others. These items can be purchased a couple of weeks before you need them.
Shop In-Season Produce
Buying in-season produce can have some tasty savings. Since many seasonal foods don’t need to be imported, you can save money on groceries.
During October and November, some seasonal foods include:
- Pumpkin
- Cranberries, Apples, & Pears
Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts, & Cabbage
Sweet Potato & Squash
Oranges
Kale
Walnuts, Almonds, & Pecans
Make Budget-Friendly Recipes
Most of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes can have affordable substitutes that are just as tasty.
If a whole turkey isn’t in the budget this year, choose a different meat or main dish to serve up.
You can also spruce up your side dishes with fresh or canned fruits and vegetables. You get bonus savings if you buy in season, which many Thanksgiving dishes already include.
If you have the ingredients available, making desserts from scratch can save you from buying premade pie crusts and fillings.
There are many ways to get creative on how and what you serve for dinner, so make it your own.
- Optimize Your Holiday Travel Plans
Most Americans will be doing some form of traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday. With a little preparation and budget-savvy choices, you can save on your travel expenses this year.
If you have the time, driving may be a more affordable option than flying, especially if you’re transporting a larger family. You’ll also have the chance to make memories on the drive and even do some sightseeing along the way.
If driving isn’t an option, try to travel on non-peak days for a better rate. You may be able to bundle your flight, hotel, and rental car for extra savings.
Baggage fees can also add up quickly, so try to share to make the most of your flight.
Still Crunched for Holiday Cash? AMG Finance Can Help.
If you’re wondering how you’re going to pay for Thanksgiving this year, you’re not alone. Many Americans struggle to pay for the holidays.
But you do have options.
AMG Finance offers holiday loans to make your Thanksgiving a little easier. Get the cash you need to support everyone for the holidays.
Learn more about our loan options or visit us at a branch near you.
