Managing Thanksgiving on a Budget

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. That means it’s time to start thinking of ways not to go over budget. Here are some tips to make sure you don’t overspend this year.

Set a Spending Limit

Look at your budget so you know exactly how much you are okay spending. If you go into the grocery store blindly, you’re much more likely to overspend. 

Check Your Inventory

Now that you have a budget set, check your inventory:

• Start with the pantry to find ingredients you need.
• Look in the fridge to check for ingredients you already have.
• Don’t forget about frozen items you may have in your freezer.

You don’t want to buy duplicate items. That’s an easy way to overspend.

Make a Grocery List

You should always make a grocery shopping list, especially around Thanksgiving.

• List every dish you plan on making.
• Break it down into an ingredients list.
• If possible, search in a shopping app for the cost of each thing.
• If your list is over budget, consider eliminating dishes or making food assignments.

Ask for Help

Another way to keep your Thanksgiving costs down is to delegate both food assignments and tasks.

• Ask friends and family to bring a side dish or dessert item.
• For large groups, instead of renting seating space, ask family and friends to help out.
• Delegate the cleanup as well. You don’t need to do everything yourself.

Don’t Worry About Decor

Thanksgiving decor is great, but most people won’t even notice. Instead of going overboard on decorations, save some cash. People come to Thanksgiving to enjoy loved ones’ company, not to admire your decor.

Do One Thing: Make a detailed grocery shopping list of all the ingredients needed before heading to the store.