Who doesn’t love the convenience and flavors of fast food? Whether you’re short on time, have a craving for fries and a burger, or are traveling, hitting the drive-thru is an easy option. However, the costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The good news is that with a few clever tips and tricks, you can satisfy your fast food cravings without blowing your budget. Check out these nine money-saving hacks that will help you dine at your favorite chains for less.
1. Take Advantage of Value Menus and Combos
Almost every major fast food joint offers a value or dollar menu featuring cheaper sandwiches, sides, drinks and more. While the portions are smaller, you can often build a pretty filling meal from these budget-friendly options. Also look for combo deals that give you fries and a drink at a discounted rate when you purchase a sandwich or entree.
2. Split Items with a Dining Partner
Those massive burgers, sandwiches and sides at fast food places are often enough to feed two (or more!) people. Consider splitting menu items with a friend to stretch your dollars further. They get half, you get half, and you both save cash. It’s a win-win!
3. Browse for Coupons and Promotions
Before you hit the drive-thru, do a quick online search for coupons, discount codes and promotions for that particular chain. Many fast food places offer percentage or dollar-off deals through their app, email club or physical mailers you can easily take advantage of.
4. Ask About Discounts
It never hurts to inquire about any current discounts or specials a fast food restaurant may be offering, even if they’re not advertised. Senior citizens, students, military and other groups sometimes qualify for money-saving deals. The worst they can say is no!
5. Skip the Combos (Sometimes)
Combo deals bundle menu items together for one price, which can save you money in some cases. However, if you don’t want the fries, drink or other extras that come with the combo, you may actually save by ordering just the sandwich or entree a la carte.
6. Stick to Cheaper Proteins
Look for menu items featuring less expensive proteins like chicken, beans or egg rather than pricier beef or seafood. Chains like Taco Bell, Burger King, McDonald’s and Wendy’s all have tasty, budget-friendly chicken sandwiches and wraps that will save you a couple bucks versus burger or fish options.
7. Buy Snack-Sized Instead of Larger Sizes
Skip the upsell! Stick to snack or medium-sized fries, drinks and other sides rather than going large or super-sizing. Those bigger portions lead to overeating and overspending. A snack size is usually enough to satisfy your craving without breaking the bank.
8. Use Food Delivery Services Wisely
While food delivery services like DoorDash, UberEats and GrubHub are incredibly convenient, the fees can make a cheap fast food meal not so cheap. However, they often offer new customer promo codes for a free or steeply discounted first order. Sign up, get the discount, then use discernment when ordering delivery going forward.
9. Buy From the Happy Meal or Kid’s Menu
You may feel a little silly, but fast food kid’s meals can be an affordable option for adults with smaller appetites. You’ll get a sandwich or nuggets, small fry and drink or other side at a fraction of the price of a full combo meal. No shame in enjoying that racecar pail of chicken nuggets!
With a few money-saving hacks and little creativity, you can satisfy those fast food cravings without emptying your wallet. From taking advantage of value menus to splitting items with friends, there are plenty of ways to dine cheaply at your favorite chains. Stick to these tips to keep your spending in check while still enjoying the convenience and taste of fast food!
