Most of us spend over a third of our salaries on food and that comes up to a pretty hefty amount at the end of every month. We understand that it can be difficult to resist good food after a stressful day at the office but sometimes putting aside your need for a decent dining experience can do wonders for your bank account.
If you’re going to pamper yourself everyday, you’ll end up paying for it when you end up in your late fifties. Here’s how you can save a quick buck or two during your workday meals:
Takeaways
There are plenty of quick takeaway foods like Hot & Roll wraps, Subway sandwiches and which are cheaper than dine-in options because there’s no service tax.
It’s a pity that Malaysia lacks pretty parks or smoke-free sidewalks but don’t let that stop you from getting takeaway bento meals from hypermarkets such as Jusco or Carrefour. They also have the option to reheat the food for you.
Stock up!
If you’ve got an office with a refridgerator, lucky you. Have your fridge stocked with emergency food such as peanut butter, rice crackers, jam, Marmite, cheese and the like so all you need is some bread to go with all the condiments you have store in the pantry for a quickie meal.
Food delivery services
We know how important it is to have your meals with colleagues, you know what they say, colleagues who eat together, work well together, or so we think. When we say food delivery, we’re not talking about fast food but the type that’s homecooked with three dishes or more using tiffin carriers. Get a colleague or two to share this with you.
Food trucks
Food trucks are those little vans converted into small stalls selling nasi campur or Chinese zhap fan (mixed rice) and they can be found at most office areas in Klang Valley. Cheap, healthy and tasty but we don’t condone the use of styrofoam boxes so invest in a tiffin carrier or Tupperware. Save money and the Earth at the same time!
Group discount vouchers
Keep an eye out for discounted deals at eateries near your area because sometimes you can pick up a pretty mean set meal for under RM10!
Waste not!
If you’re cooking dinner, cook a little extra and store it in the refridgerator. Heat it up well before heading to work and you’ve got a nice wholesome meal waiting for you come lunchtime.
Don’t lament that eating out is expensive if you’ve never tried these nifty lunch ideas. Don’t give in to peer pressure especially if you have other financial goals or debts to settle. Stay focused on your goals and remember to stick to a balanced diet no matter how much your meals costs.
McDonalds anyone? Just kidding.
