Dad's Quick Take
Plan a few meals, make a list, and stick to it. Buy versatile staples, check the unit price, don't shop hungry, and use up what you have before it spoils. Most food waste — and overspending — comes from buying without a plan.
Shop smarter
- Plan 3–4 meals and build your list around them.
- Stick to the list — impulse buys are the budget killer.
- Compare the unit price, not just the sticker price.
- Buy versatile staples: eggs, rice, beans, pasta, frozen veggies.
- Don't shop hungry; you'll buy junk.
- Check store brands — often identical to name brands for less.
Stop wasting food
Plan to actually eat what you buy. Store things properly, keep older items in front so they get used first, and turn “about to go bad” produce into a stir-fry, soup, or smoothie. Wasted food is money in the trash.
Dad's take
A $0 meal is the one you make from what's already in your fridge. Shop your kitchen before you shop the store.
Common questions
Is meal prepping worth it?
If it fits you, yes — cooking a couple things in batches saves money and weeknight stress. Even prepping one or two days helps.