We all have those days when cooking feels impossible – you’re running between activities, working late, or simply need a break from the kitchen. While home cooking is typically the most budget-friendly option, the reality is that fast food sometimes fits the bill for busy families. The good news? With some strategic planning, you can enjoy occasional fast food meals without derailing your budget.
Know the Value Menus
Nearly every major fast food chain offers some version of a value menu, with items typically priced between $1-$3. These menus often include:
- Basic burgers and sandwiches
- Small sides (fries, apple slices)
- Junior-sized desserts
- Small drinks
Money-saving tip: Check the McDonald’s app for their “$1 $2 $3 Menu” or Wendy’s “4 for $4” deal, which includes a sandwich, nuggets, fries, and a drink.
Family Meal Deals
Many chains have recognized that families need affordable options and have created bundles specifically for multiple people:
- KFC’s Family Fill-Up buckets (8 pieces of chicken, large mashed potatoes, large gravy, large coleslaw, and 4 biscuits)
- Taco Bell’s Party Packs (12 tacos for around $15)
- Pizza chains’ family deals (large pizza, breadsticks, and 2-liter soda)
Money-saving tip: Compare the cost of building your own meal versus buying a bundle. Family meals typically save 15-25% over ordering items separately.
Download the Apps
Fast food chains are competing fiercely for your loyalty, and their apps are the battleground:
- Most fast food apps have reward systems and app-only specials!
- Many offer points for each purchase that convert to free menu items
- Apps often provide exclusive coupons not available elsewhere
- Digital ordering can allow for precise customization that saves money
Wayback Burgers’ app deserves special mention for its exceptional rewards program and generous in-app discounts, making it a standout option for budget-conscious families.
Money-saving tip: Create a dedicated email address for all restaurant apps to keep your primary inbox clean while still accessing deals.
Split Meals Strategically
Fast food portions are often larger than necessary, especially for children:
- Have younger children (ages 2-6) split a regular meal instead of ordering kids’ meals, which can be overpriced for the portion size
- Order a large fries to share rather than multiple small fries
- Consider a larger sandwich cut in half with a shared side instead of two separate meals
Money-saving tip: At Chipotle, order a bowl with tortillas on the side (free) to split between two children – you’ll get more food than two kids’ meals for less money.
Water is Your Friend
Beverages add up quickly when dining out:
- Request free water cups instead of purchasing drinks ($1.99-$2.99 savings per person)
- Bring reusable water bottles for each family member
- If you must have soda, order one large to share rather than individual drinks
Money-saving tip: A family of four can save $8-$12 per meal just by skipping individual drinks.
Time Your Visits
Strategic timing can lead to significant savings:
- Many chains offer discounted or free kids’ meals on specific days (Tuesdays are common)
- Happy hour specials (usually 2-5 PM) often include half-price drinks and snacks
- Some restaurants offer “Family Night” discounts during slower weekday evenings
Money-saving tip: IHOP and similar restaurants sometimes run “Kids Eat Free” promotions when adults purchase a meal.
Skip the Extras
Fast food restaurants make significant profits on add-ons:
- Avoid premium sides (onion rings, cheese curds) in favor of standard options
- Say no to “deluxe” or “supreme” versions that add minimal ingredients for $1-$2 more
- Be wary of meal “upgrades” that typically cost more than the value received
Money-saving tip: At Subway, skip the combo and just order the sandwich – you’ll save $2-3 per person.
Beyond the Big Chains
Don’t overlook smaller, regional options:
- Local taco shops often offer “Taco Tuesday” specials with significant discounts
- Chinese takeout restaurants frequently provide large portions that can feed multiple people
- Pizza by the slice establishments can be more economical than buying whole pizzas for smaller families
Money-saving tip: Check local restaurant social media pages for daily specials that aren’t advertised nationally.
Grocery Store Prepared Foods: The Hidden Fast Food Alternative
Many people overlook one of the best values in quick meals: grocery store prepared foods.
- Rotisserie chickens are often priced as loss leaders (sometimes cheaper than raw chicken)
- Deli fried chicken typically costs less than comparable amounts at fast food chains
- Prepared side dishes can be purchased in family-sized portions
- Many stores discount prepared foods in the evening to reduce waste
Money-saving tip: A grocery store rotisserie chicken, bagged salad, and bakery rolls can feed a family of four for less than most fast food meals while providing leftovers for another meal.
Be Membership Savvy
Various memberships and programs can reduce costs:
- Costco and Sam’s Club food courts offer remarkably affordable meals
- Entertainment Books and similar coupon collections often include BOGO deals for fast food
- AAA and AARP memberships sometimes include restaurant discounts
The Bottom Line
While fast food shouldn’t be an everyday solution, when used strategically, it can provide convenient, budget-friendly meals for busy families. By combining app deals, timing your visits, and being selective about what you order, you can enjoy occasional fast food treats without the financial guilt that often accompanies them.
Remember – the most expensive part of fast food isn’t always the food itself, but the impulsive, unplanned nature of many fast food visits. Build these occasional meals into your budget, use the strategies above, and you’ll find that fast food can have its place in a financially responsible lifestyle.
