Food can be a big expense, but if you make smarter choices, you will come out ahead and eat better! Continue reading for six everyday tips to help you save money on food costs.

Plan ahead: Lack of planning leads to the poorest choices. Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week – or even month – to plan and shop for your menu. This way, you won’t be stuck missing key ingredients when you need them most and then opting for expensive, unhealthy takeout food instead.

Make healthier choices: Eating healthier foods can actually save you money! The savings comes from reducing portion sizes and from buying fewer of the high-calorie snacks, which have a tendency to increase the amount spent at the grocery store.

Invest in a quality lunchbox: Avoid the temptation to buy pricey convenience foods on the go by keeping your meals and snacks at the perfect temperature with a good-quality lunchbox and reusable drink bottle.

Avoid vending machines: Vending machines are ridiculously overpriced. Plan your snacks and keep some with you at all times so you don’t blow all your cash on $2 chocolate bars.

Try perimeter shopping: Most grocery stores have a similar layout – produce, dairy and meat on the outside perimeter of the store, while the snacks, canned goods and other junk food items are located in the middle of the store. Sticking to the outside for the bulk of your groceries will help to control your budget, and ensure healthier eating for your entire household!

Take advantage of Benefits Plus®: Once you upgrade your basic checking account to a Benefits Plus^® checking with SeaComm, you will gain exclusive access to a variety of retail discounts and savings – including gift and eGift cards at up to 15% off, and a free Grocery Coupon Club membership! Click here to learn more, or visit your nearest SeaComm branch location to upgrade your checking account, today.

For complete information, terms, conditions and exclusions please visit www.benefits-plus.org or call 866-329-7587.