The cheapest way to eat is to shop smartly and cook it at home. But we can’t live on home cooking alone. Sometimes getting out is just what we need to shake things up. Unfortunately, eating out can put a dent in your pockets. But if you know what you’re doing, you can eat out and still keep your wallet full.

Order Water

Drinks are one of the most marked up items in the food service business. When you order a soda or tea with your meal at a restaurant, it costs about the same as you’d pay for a two liter at the grocery store, but only costs the restaurant a few pennies to buy. Order water and drink your cola when you get home.