Our top tips for saving on your Takeaway

Written by: Ryan O’Connell
Published on 17 October 2024

Summer is a very social time for most of us. We spend more time meeting friends, grabbing a drink, and checking out local restaurants to get some dinner. However, as the Summer draws to a close and a distinct chill sets in, the temptation to curl up on the couch, put on a movie, and order in grows.

Grabbing a weekend takeaway becomes essential in the colder months, saving you the hassle of cooking or facing the weather outside. With an ever-growing range of takeaway apps offering everything from fast food to gourmet cuisine and healthy alternatives, the temptation to order in after a long day is hard to resist. However, while convenient, it can become costly, with service and delivery fees quickly adding up. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to enjoy takeaways without overspending. Whether you're a regular takeaway fan or an occasional orderer, these money-saving hacks will help you indulge on a budget.

Collect your order

Skip the delivery and opt for collection instead. Delivery fees, service charges, and driver tips can add up, making your takeaway more expensive than it needs to be. When ordering from a local spot, opting for collection can save you money. You'll avoid additional charges like delivery fees and tips, which you may not think about until you're about to place your order. These extra costs can make your meal pricier than expected. Whether you pick it up on your way home or drive down to the restaurant, collecting your order yourself reduces these added costs. In fact, some places offer special discounts for collection orders, so keep an eye out for further savings. Additionally, collecting your order often means faster service and avoids the risk of cold food. Next time you're craving something tasty, skip delivery and opt for collection — your wallet will thank you!

Ordering more can save more

This tip may seem counter-intuitive, but hear us out. Many takeaway apps, such as Uber Eats, offer deals like 2-for-1 on select items. Taking advantage of these offers can save you money by stretching your meals further. By ordering more at a discount, you can enjoy one meal now and save the other for later, turning one takeaway into two! This works especially well for dishes that reheat nicely, like pizza, pasta, or curries. Not only do you get more value for your money, but it also means you don't need to cook another meal the next day. It’s a budget-friendly trick that lets you enjoy delicious food twice for the price of one!

Combine takeaway items and home cooking

Let's face it, some takeaway items just can't be replicated at home. Whether it's a juicy burger, crispy fried chicken, or your favourite local curry, home-made versions often fall short. However, a great way to save is to combine those must-have takeaway items with things you can easily make at home. This approach not only lowers the cost but allows you to add healthier options or customise the meal to your taste. For example, grab your favourite main dish from your local Chinese and pair it with home-made chips, microwave rice, or some grilled veggies. You could also order a margherita pizza and add your own toppings at home for a personalised twist. By blending home-made elements with your takeaway favourites, you’ll enjoy more variety without the high cost and reduce food waste.

Try a takeaway app membership

If you're a regular takeaway lover, consider signing up for a takeaway app membership. Many apps, like Uber Eats’ Uber One or Deliveroo Plus, offer membership options that provide savings and extra perks. These memberships typically offer free delivery for a flat monthly fee, along with additional benefits like lower prices, exclusive offers, and reduced minimum order requirements. Some also allow you to earn loyalty points that can be redeemed for rewards, adding even more value. If you frequently order takeaways, a membership can help you save money while enjoying extra perks.

Check for discount codes

Before placing your order, always check for discount codes. Voucher codes for takeaway apps and restaurants in the UK are a great way to save money on your favourite meals. Whether you're using Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Just Eat, these apps regularly offer promo codes that can help you save on everything from fish and chips to a cheeky Chinese. You can find discounts that take a percentage off your total, offer money off, or even provide free delivery. New users often get welcome discounts, but there are also seasonal offers and flash deals available for regular customers. So, if you’re craving a treat without spending too much, keep an eye out for discount codes and enjoy your takeaway for less!