Think DoorDash Is Convenient? You Could Be Wasting $1,000 a Year - Here's How Cooking Saves You Cash
Look, if you've ever opened up DoorDash or Uber Eats, you know how tempting it is to hit that order button for some late-night tacos or a quick lunch. But here's the kicker: you could be throwing away over $1,000 a year doing just that. Yeah, you read that right.
One moment of convenience could easily turn into a financial pitfall. When you tally up delivery fees, tips, and the inevitable urge to order more than you actually need, it's easy to see how quickly those small charges add up. So why does this matter? Because every dollar you save gets you closer to your goals, traveling, investing, or even just paying down that pesky student debt.
Getting a handle on your food budget can be a game changer, especially for us Millennials and Gen Z folks trying to make every cent count. So, let's break it down and see why cooking at home is not just healthier but also your wallet's best friend.
The Reality Check
So, what's the deal with food delivery? According to a study by Caviar, the average American spends around $1,200 on food delivery each year. That's roughly $100 a month!
Come on, that could get you a decent grocery haul! Think about it, if you're paying $15 for one meal delivery, you could buy enough ingredients to make 3-4 meals at home. Plus, let's not forget those sneaky service fees and tips that creep up on you, sometimes adding an extra $5 or $10 onto your order.
It's not just the money, though. Cooking at home can help you gauge portion sizes, try new recipes, and even have fun with friends doing meal prep. I mean, who hasn't had a blast whipping up your favorite dish with a buddy? The perks go beyond just counting dollars and cents.
Let's also chat about the economic environment. With inflation literally making your dollar feel lighter, now's not the time to let convenience eat away at your budget. You're not just saving money; you're building a habit that could carry you through rough patches. And trust me, whether it's a new job or the next financial recession, you'll want that cushion.
What This Means for You
That being said, you might be thinking, "But I'm busy!" I get it, life is hectic, and cooking can feel like another chore on your to-do list. But if you start small, you might actually find it a nice way to unwind after a long day. How about setting aside one night a week to cook something fun? It's not all or nothing.
And let's address the challenge. For some, time management or cooking skills might be hurdles. No one expects you to become a Michelin-star chef overnight. There are countless resources out there, from simple recipes online to meal prep services that can strike a balance between cooking and convenience.
Actionable Insights
- Plan Your Meals: Take 15 minutes each week to plan out three meals. This saves time and helps with your grocery list.
- Invest in Kitchen Basics: A few good pots, pans, and knives can make cooking easier. You don't need fancy gadgets to get started.
- Try Batch Cooking: On your day off, make larger quantities of meals and freeze portions for busy days.
- Use Credit Card Rewards: Leverage your credit card points on groceries or cooking supplies to ease the expenses.
- Explore Alternative Investments: Check out guides for investing in collectibles or other creative assets that can grow in value while you save.
The Bigger Picture
Let's zoom out for a second. The reality is we're dealing with a system that makes it tough for young people to save. High rents, wages that don't always match living costs, and all those expensive lattes add up. But here's the thing: taking small steps now, like cooking more, can help shift the conversation. Every dollar saved helps us demand more and build a better financial future.
So as you take control of your meals and your finances, remember you're not alone. Many of us are in this together, navigating the ups and downs. And for deeper dives into how to manage your money, invest smartly, or find side hustles, check out Koi Circle's Blueprint guides. You've got this.