Saving Money on Food from Home

If you are trying to save money by taking your food and snacks with you when you leave the house this tip is for you. 
Even with good planning on my part, there are times when we are out of the house longer than I had planned and we need something to eat. 
Last weekend we were at the flea market, which we are used to leaving by 10 or 11 a.m. Since we were at a new flea market we didn't realize they stayed until 1 p.m.
What I decided to do was go to the grocery store. 

Here is what I purchased:
I went to the deli and purchased 1/2 pound of the deli meat they had on sale, which cost me $2.50. I had them slice it thin to stretch it as far as possible. 
I also picked up a couple of single use mayonnaise packets from the deli, so no cost for those. I also picked up a loaf of bread for 86¢ (even I was expecting to pay more for the bread). 
So, for $3.36 plus tax, I was able to make us several sandwiches and put the rest into the cooler. 
We bring the cooler with us every time with ice and cold drinks. I placed the deli meat inside to take home for later, and we still have some of that deli meat to use for other sandwiches at home. 
I would not be able to get that much food at a fast food establishment for such a small amount of money. 
Other things I have found in the grocery store at various times like this include yogurt on clearance for 39¢, and a vegetable tray for $1.99. 

This is a perfect item to eat when I am out of the house and away from home. It's affordable and healthy as well. 
The moral of the story here is to use the grocery store for food even at times when it seems unconventional. 
Also, if you are the type of person who forgets to bring your refillable water bottle with you when you go out this tip is for you. 
While I was there I brought my refillable water bottle and filled it up for free at the grocery store's water fountain.  

Make a concentrated effort to bring it with you because eventually it will become like second nature to you and it will become a habit not to leave home without it. 
Trust me, I've done it and I know it works.  :) 
Belinda ~ Living within our Means ~