Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and with it comes the excitement of feasting with loved ones, watching football, and enjoying the warmth of the holiday season. However, the joy of Thanksgiving can be dampened by the financial burden of hosting a grand feast.
The average American spends around $300 on Thanksgiving dinner alone, and that’s not counting decorations, travel, and other expenses. But fear not, dear readers! With a little creativity and planning, you can save big on Turkey Day without sacrificing any of the festive fun.
In this blog, we’ll share 5 sneaky ways to save on Thanksgiving expenses, from clever cooking hacks to savvy shopping strategies.
1. Plan Ahead and Make a Shopping List
One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to Thanksgiving shopping is waiting until the last minute. This can lead to impulse buys, forgotten items, and a whole lot of stress.
To avoid this, start planning your Thanksgiving menu and shopping list at least two weeks in advance. Make a list of all the ingredients you need, and check what you already have in your pantry, fridge, and freezer.
Sticking to your list will help you avoid buying unnecessary items and reduce food waste. Plus, you’ll have time to look for coupons, discounts, and sales on the items you need.
2. Shop Smart and Buy in Bulk
When it comes to Thanksgiving shopping, buying in bulk can be a great way to save. Items like canned goods, spices, and baking supplies are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities.
Consider shopping at wholesale clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, or BJ’s Wholesale Club for items like:
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Canned pumpkin and cranberry sauce
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Spices and herbs like cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme
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Baking supplies like flour, sugar, and butter
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Beverages like juice, soda, and wine
Just be sure to store your bulk purchases properly to maintain their freshness and quality.
3. Get Creative with Your Menu
Traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie can be delicious, but they can also be expensive. Consider getting creative with your menu by incorporating cheaper alternatives or using ingredients you already have on hand.
Some ideas include:
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Roasting a smaller turkey or a different type of protein like ham or chicken
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Making mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes
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Using canned or frozen vegetables instead of fresh
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Making your own pumpkin pie instead of buying one
4. DIY Decorations and Activities
Decorations and activities can add a lot to the overall cost of Thanksgiving. But with a little creativity, you can create a festive atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Consider DIY projects like:
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Making your own paper flowers or leaf garlands
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Creating a centerpiece using candles, pinecones, and fall leaves
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Making your own Thanksgiving-themed crafts, like turkey hats or pilgrim bonnets
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Hosting a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share
Not only will these DIY projects save you money, but they’ll also add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving celebration.
5. Use Cashback Apps and Coupons
Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of cashback apps and coupons to save even more on your Thanksgiving shopping.
Apps like Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and Checkout 51 offer cashback on certain grocery items, including those commonly used in Thanksgiving cooking. Coupons can also be found online, in newspapers, and on product packaging.
Some popular coupon websites include:
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By combining these cashback apps and coupons with the other tips outlined above, you can save big on your Thanksgiving expenses and enjoy a stress-free, budget-friendly holiday.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones, give thanks, and enjoy delicious food. But it doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning ahead, shopping smart, getting creative with your menu, DIYing decorations and activities, and using cashback apps and coupons, you can save big on Turkey Day.
So go ahead, indulge in that extra slice of pumpkin pie, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. With these sneaky ways to save, you’ll be giving thanks for your budget-friendly Thanksgiving celebration!