The Christmas festivities may be behind us, but January doesn’t have to be a dull month by any means! Historically, January is considered a major low after the joys of December. The third Monday (or ‘blue Monday’) in particular, is a low point of the year, and many people struggle to fight off the January blues.
Although people traditionally spend less in January, statistics are beginning to show a change. Sales and deals characterise January shopping and they are enticing customers to get back out there and enjoy themselves, despite their tightened purse strings. This might mean buying something new or enjoying a meal out with friends.
There are plenty of ways in which you can still eat out in January despite your low bank balance. Read on to find out some budget-friendly life hacks that will satisfy your appetite and help fight the January blues.
Never forgo a happy hour
Whatever the deal is, happy hours offer a great way to spend money. We all feel smug when we accidentally happen upon one, but during January, plan ahead! Make a list of where and when all your local happy hours take place and craft a money-saving action plan.
Stay loyal to your favourites
Loyal customers should always be rewarded! Most cafes and coffee shop offer stamp cards which allow you to earn freebies. Every little helps over this cold and dreary month, so a free coffee goes a long way.
No food wasted
Even when you’re full to the brim, no food gets left behind! Avoid waste and get your money’s worth even when your stomach can’t handle it by taking home a doggy bag. If you’ve gone out for a pizza for example, but just can’t put it all away, save a few slices for lunch the next day — essentially two meals for the price of one!
Benefit from discounts
Do you research and find some restaurant discounts — there are plenty out there. Restaurants will be going the extra mile to increase footfall over this low-spend month, and that spells extra discounts for foodies! There are also apps available that offer huge savings such as half-price meals, 2 for 1 deals and free bottles of wine at great restaurants. In addition, because of such apps focussing on independent restaurants, not only will you be eating great food at great prices, but you’ll also be helping local businesses.
Never forget your student card
Always remember to ask for student discounts if you have a valid card! Many bars, restaurants, and cafés want to encourage younger customers, who might not have as much disposable cash, into their establishment — so student discounts are a win-win! Just make sure you always have your student card on you and watch the discounts roll in.
Stay in the know
Sign up to your favourite eatery’s newsletter and you’ll never miss out on an offer agan! Many places run regular competitions, where you can win delicious freebies, so stay in the loop! During the post-Christmas slump, these competitions will likely become all the more frequent in order to increase footfall in restaurants.
Dine free of charge
There’s only one thing better than cheap dining — free dining! That’s right, if you become a mystery diner, you’ll be able to eat out at certain restaurants completely free of charge! It sounds too good to be true, but many restaurants are on the lookout for people to review them or mention them on a blog. As long as you give an honest review of your experience, the meal will be ‘on the house’!
Bring the joy back into January and enjoy fantastic food again. You can be frugal while still eating well and enjoying a social life thanks to all of these options. So, what are you waiting for? Start eating out while saving money!
Sources:
https://www.savethestudent.org/
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/shopping/how-to-get-free-or-cheap-food/
https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/retailindustry/bulletins/retailsales/february2019
