OpinionMom

This week’s Frugal Friday tip is quick and simple.

We all know that it’s cheaper to eat at home, but sometimes you just can’t avoid eating out. Maybe your family is traveling (as mine did recently), or maybe you just ran out of things to cook.

Whatever the case, your family finds themselves at a restaurant. The restaurant tab could cost your family a lot unless you plan carefully.

We’ve discovered that the portions offered at most restaurants are more than enough to serve two people. Whenever possible, my husband and I share one meal and my daughters share another. Not only does this practice save our family money, but it also keeps us from overeating.

What if you’re eating alone, though? The solution is simple. Divide your meal into two equal portions and ask for a takeout container. Put one of the portions into the takeout container (if you are in a hotel room with a refrigerator the second portion can be your lunch tomorrow) and eat first portion at the table.

Contents (c) Copyright 2007, Laura Spencer. All rights reserved.