5 Ways to Be the Host With the Most (Savings!) This Thanksgiving Holiday

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it's time to get your holiday plans in order. If you're hosting the annual holiday meal with friends and family, you may be starting to shop for essentials.

It's understandable if you're stressed about food costs this year. But it's possible to prepare a delicious spread without ignoring your budget. I'll share a few suggestions to help you plan a memorable gathering while maximizing your savings.

1. Check for sales and outline a list

It takes time to plan a trip to the grocery store. But by taking a few extra moments out of your day to check what's on sale and make a shopping list, you can keep more money in your bank account. Before heading to the store, review sales fliers for the stores in your area. During the holiday season, many retailers have necessary meal essentials on sale.

Shopping sale items could help you keep your spending in check. If you have an Aldi nearby, you may want to stop there. Aldi has select holiday essentials on sale for up to 50% through the end of the year. This sale could help you prepare the perfect meal without going broke.

2. Buy generic essentials

If you only stick to name-brand items while shopping, you'll have a more costly grocery bill. Consider choosing the generic alternative to stay on budget. Essentials like cranberry sauce and canned veggies are sold in generic versions for a fraction of the cost. No one will know the difference and you can get what you need while keeping more money in your pocket.

3. Get creative and switch up the menu

Depending on how many guests you'll be hosting this holiday, it can be costly to serve traditional Thanksgiving favorites like turkey and all the fixings. But you can serve whatever you'd like to make -- it doesn't need to be a traditional spread. Consider cooking other family favorites for your Thanksgiving meal this year to keep food costs reasonable.

4. Don't miss extra savings opportunities

Shopping sale items is an excellent way to avoid racking up a costly credit card bill when buying holiday food essentials. But that's not the only way to save money at the grocery store. Many grocery retailers have mobile apps with additional discount opportunities available to shoppers. Clipping in-app virtual coupons, for example, can help you maximize your savings.

You can also use one of the best cash back apps to earn cash back on your spending. You won't get an immediate discount on your grocery bill, but once you have enough earnings, you can get your cash back deposited in the bank. These apps make for an easy way to get rewarded for shopping, and all you have to do is buy what you usually do.

5. Check to see if catering is cheaper

With food costs as high as they are, it may be cheaper to get your entire Thanksgiving meal catered. Another option is to pick up a few prepared dishes and cook some items at home to stay on budget. Many grocery stores and restaurants offer fully prepared meals for a set price. You may want to price out the cost of buying everything yourself and decide if it's worthwhile to get professional help to save money and reduce stress.

Keep your finances in check

As you make your Thanksgiving holiday plans, keep your finances in check. Don't feel pressured to overspend beyond your means, and don't feel like you need to plan an elaborate, expensive meal to impress your guests. Sharing a meal and enjoying each other's company is the primary goal. Whatever meal you serve will be appreciated by all. If you're looking for more ways to save money, check out our free personal finance resources.