With school starting back up again, it's time to start thinking about packing lunches. If you're like most parents, you want to make sure your kids are getting a nutritious and delicious meal without breaking the bank. Here are five quick and easy ways to save on back-to-school lunches.


1. Plan Ahead


Before heading to the grocery store, sit down and make a list of everything you'll need for the week. This will help you avoid purchasing items you don't need and sticking to a budget.


2. Buy in Bulk


Buying items in bulk can be a great way to save money in the long run. Look for deals at your local grocery store or warehouse club and stock up on lunch staples like granola bars, nuts, fruit, and yogurt.


3. Pre-pack as much as possible


If you have the time, pre-packing lunch items like sandwiches, fruits, and veggies can save you time and money in the long run. Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge so it's ready to go when you need it.


4. Invest in a lunch box with compartments


A lunch box with compartments can help you portion out food and avoid overpacking (and wasting) anything. Plus, it'll keep your child's lunch nice and organized! If you're looking for the best kids' lunch boxes for the 2022-2023 school year, check out our article on that.


5. Make use of leftovers


Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, repurpose them into your child's lunch. For example, if you have leftover chicken from dinner, shred it up and put it on a whole wheat tortilla with some lettuce for a healthy and filling wrap.


Packing lunches doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming—with a little planning and preparation, you can easily save money on back-to-school lunches for your kids. Try some (or all!) of these tips and see how much money you can save!