According to research by Harris Interactive, 45% of U.S. adults packed their lunches last fall. A 12-inch turkey-breast-and-ham sub with chips and a drink runs about $8 at Subway. Buy a loaf of bread, lunchmeat, cheese, and fruit or chips for the week and you’ll spend just $3 or so a day. Annual savings (packing four days a week): $1,040.
In today’s economy, packing a lunch is what smart people do. I have been brown bagging my lunch for years. Not only will you save money, but you will eat healthier, tastier food. What works for me is this: I brown bag my lunch daily and then buy lunch on paydays (I get paid every two weeks). This routine lets me save money and splurge a little, too.
I recommend packing fresh fruits and vegetables with deli-style sandwiches. Soups and salads are great as are bagels and cream cheese. So I don’t have to rush, I prepare my lunch the night before and store in the refrigerator.
Do you brown bag for lunch? What’s your favorite meal? What benefits have you found with making your lunch?
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