Brown Bag It for Lunch

Debbie’s Daily Dose of Food for Thought

This time of year is perfect for eating outdoors. Mary Hunt, author of the Everyday Cheapskate, has some wonderful suggestions on how to save money by bringing a homemade lunch to work. She suggests, “Keep a 'lunch money' jar” and that “Every time you bring a homemade lunch to work, put the amount you would have spent at a restaurant in the jar. Watch your savings grow.” Did you know making your own lunch will cost about $3 a day? If you typically spend $10 a day on lunch, your savings will amount to $7 a day. Do this for a week and you will save $35!

Buy Your Favorite Food Items

Do you prefer a sandwich for lunch or a warm meal? Make a list of things you really enjoy to eat, head to , Stop & Shop or your favorite grocery store and buy what you need so you will have them on hand. Try something new occasionally, too! Check this site for some ideas.

Plan Ahead

Are you having chili, roasted chicken or a favorite casserole for dinner? Double your recipe and pack some for lunch.

Package Your Food Properly

Store your lunch in hard cases so nothing will get smashed. To avoid soggy sandwiches, store condiments in smaller, plastic containers and spread them on the bread just before you eat.

Have Fun with the Process

Tote your lunch in a container you like. It can be a brown bag, a small shopping bag, a container with separate compartments, “Chinese take-out inspired boxes” or a colorful, insulated lunch bag. Use small ice packs to keep your food fresh. Remember, you will be enjoying food you like and saving money. Do this for a month and your savings will be $140!