When the kids are home all day during the summer holidays, the kitchen quickly becomes the busiest room in the house! The constant demand for meals and snacks can push up your food budget. But with a little planning and creativity, you can keep everyone fed without overspending.
Plan Ahead and Use What You Have
Planning meals in advance helps you avoid last-minute takeaways or expensive convenience foods. Take stock of what’s already in your cupboards and fridge before you shop. Using up those ingredients first reduces waste and stretches your grocery budget further.
Batch Cooking and Freezing
Batch cooking is a lifesaver for busy families. Cooking large pots of meals like pasta sauces, curries, stews, or chilli lets you freeze portions for quick reheating on hectic days. This not only saves time but helps reduce food waste and the temptation to order takeout.
Healthy, Homemade Snacks
Snacks can add up quickly if bought ready-made. Instead, try making your own healthy treats like fruit muffins, flapjacks, or frozen fruit lollies. These cost less, cut down on packaging waste, and can be tailored to your family’s tastes.
Apps to Reduce Food Waste and Save Money
There are some great apps designed to help you get more from your food budget:
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Too Good To Go allows you to buy unsold food from local shops and cafes at a fraction of the price, reducing waste and saving money.
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Olio connects neighbours and local shops to share surplus food for free or low cost.
Keep an eye out for supermarket yellow sticker offers on food nearing its sell-by date and check your local market for fresh, affordable deals.
Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF)
Many local councils participate in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, which provides free meals and fun activities for children who receive benefits-related free school meals during school holidays. It’s a fantastic resource that eases the pressure on families while keeping kids well-fed and entertained.
You can find out if your area offers HAF on the government site here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/holiday-activities-and-food-programme/holiday-activities-and-food-programme-2025
Alternatively, check your local council’s website or community centres for details on how to register.
Tried and Tested Tips from Wave Members
Over the years, Wave Community Bank members have shared brilliant summer food hacks, such as:
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Hosting potluck lunches where everyone brings a dish to share, spreading the cost and effort.
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Setting a weekly “use it up” challenge to creatively finish leftovers or cupboard staples before shopping again.
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Getting the whole family involved in cooking to make mealtimes more fun and less of a chore.
The secret to saving on food during summer? Keep it simple, plan ahead, and involve everyone in the process.
You will find more money-saving tips in our news section—please read, share, and let us know your own tips!
