Here are some ideas to enjoy the holiday this year – and on a budget!
Buy in season.
Sweet potatoes, squash, and pumpkin should be more affordable than many other fresh veggies during this time of the year, and they’re pretty much as autumn as you can get.
Use what you already have.
You may have some cans in the back of your cabinet that you totally forgot about or even some frozen vegetables way in the back of your freezer. Before you get started on your shopping list, see what you can make with what you already have in your kitchen and pantry.
Don’t be afraid of frozen vegetables.
It would be shocking if anyone realized the green beans you put in the casserole were purchased from the frozen section of the grocery store. Most frozen veggies are frozen just after they’re picked, so they will still be good and they are more affordable.
Collect those deals for your shopping list.
Shop tactically by collecting or looking up all of the Thanksgiving grocery store coupons the week before Thanksgiving. Compare prices between stores on all the items you need (via coupons or even online), then make a shopping plan to pick up everything at the most affordable price.
Look up budget friendly recipes.
We are sure you already have a whole collection of classic Thanksgiving recipes that you want to make, but it doesn’t hurt to learn some more or substitute a few this year. Head over to Pinterest to search for some budget-friendly options and make sure to follow the Bank Five Nine Pinterest page while you’re over there.
Buy in bulk.
Buying in bulk saves money, and if there are a few of the items you are making that have ingredients you use frequently, it’s a good way to save over time. If you can, make extra servings of the meal and use your freezer to enjoy some of your Thanksgiving favorites all year long.
Figure out your turkey needs and do a little math.
Does it make sense to buy a whole bird, or could you settle for some breasts, thighs, and/or drumsticks? If you have family or friends who prefer chicken anyway, it could be the cheaper option.
Remember what the holiday is about.
Most of us at Thanksgiving reflect on what we are thankful for and although we don’t have to be thankful for the pandemic, but we can be thankful through it. We encourage you to write down a few things you are thankful for to share with those you’re close with. We will get it started! Bank Five Nine is grateful for those who choose to bank with us!