7 Ways to Save on Thanksgiving Costs This Month
With grocery prices higher than ever, hosting Thanksgiving can feel overwhelming. Between the turkey, side dishes, and even the festive décor, Thanksgiving expenses can add up quickly. However, with some smart planning, you can host a memorable holiday without breaking the bank.
Here are seven ways to cut back on Thanksgiving costs while staying financially on track:
1. Verify Your Guests’ Attendance
Before planning your menu, double-check who’s attending. Knowing exactly how many guests you’ll have helps prevent over-purchasing. This simple step reduces waste and keeps your food budget in check.
If you’re looking for budgeting tools, explore Scott Credit Union’s free financial resources designed to help you plan your spending for everyday expenses and special events. Use these financial resources to stick to your Thanksgiving meal plan with ease.
2. Find Out What Your Guests Like
When inviting guests, ask about their dietary needs and food likes. If no one loves a dish like cranberry sauce or stuffing, skip it! Thoughtful planning like this cuts costs and helps you save money in the long run.
3. Make It a Potluck
Cut down on both costs and stress by encouraging guests to contribute dishes. Instead of leaving it open-ended, create a shared Google Sheet where they can sign up for specific items. This ensures variety and avoids duplication.
4. Serve on Smaller Plates
Guests tend to fill their plates regardless of size. Using smaller dinnerware can reduce portions and prevent food waste, saving money in the process. Thoughtful habits like this extend beyond the dinner table. If you want to see how small changes add up to significant savings over time, check out Scott Credit Union’s financial education videos.
5. DIY Décor
Create a festive table without overspending by tapping into your creativity. Use items you already have at home or grab affordable decorations from the dollar store. Incorporate natural elements like leaves, pinecones, or pumpkins from your yard for a rustic touch.
Scott Credit Union knows the value of being resourceful. We offer rewards programs to help you save on holiday expenses, like CashBack Checking and credit cards with rewards.
6. Shop the Sales
Plan your menu early and stay flexible to take advantage of grocery store deals on Thanksgiving essentials. Many supermarkets offer free turkeys with qualifying purchases, so keep an eye on those circulars. Plus, with Scott Credit Union’s Mobile app, you can easily check your account balances, transfer funds, deposit checks, and more, making it easier to stick to your budget.
7. Cook from Scratch
Skip the pre-packaged convenience foods—they’re often pricier and less flavorful. Homemade dishes not only save money but also make your meal feel extra special. Start cooking early to avoid last-minute stress and enjoy the process.
Feast Without Financial Stress on Thanksgiving
With some creativity and careful planning, you can host a Thanksgiving feast without breaking the bank. Let Scott Credit Union help you stay on track for both the celebration and your financial future. Don’t let the turkey gobble up your budget—explore SCU’s financial education resources to keep your savings full this season!