In today’s economy, dining out at your favorite fast-casual restaurants doesn’t have to break the bank. By strategically combining discounts, coupons, cashback apps like Fluz, and credit card rewards, you can significantly reduce your meal expenses. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maximizing your savings:
1. Leverage Restaurant Loyalty Programs
Many fast-casual chains offer loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, free items, or exclusive deals. Signing up is typically free and can lead to substantial savings over time.
Examples:
• Chipotle Rewards: Earn 10 points for every $1 spent; redeem points for free menu items.
• Panera Bread’s MyPanera: Receive personalized rewards, including discounts and complimentary items.
• Starbucks Rewards: Accumulate Stars for every purchase, redeemable for free drinks and food.
Tip: Always scan your loyalty card or app during each purchase to ensure you’re earning points.
2. Utilize Cashback Apps Like Fluz
Cashback apps provide a percentage of your purchase back in cash, effectively reducing the total amount spent. Fluz stands out by allowing users to purchase digital gift cards for various restaurants and earn instant cashback.
How It Works:
1. Purchase a Gift Card: Buy a digital gift card for your chosen restaurant through the Fluz app.
2. Earn Cashback: Receive immediate cashback on your Fluz account.
3. Use the Gift Card: Pay for your meal using the digital gift card at the restaurant.
Stacking Opportunity: Combine Fluz cashback with restaurant loyalty points by using the gift card for payment and presenting your loyalty account during the transaction.
Learn More: Fluz – Your Money on Max
3. Apply Credit Card Rewards
Using a credit card that offers rewards on dining purchases can further enhance your savings. Many cards provide cashback, points, or miles for transactions at restaurants.
Examples:
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Earns 3x points on dining.
• American Express® Gold Card: Offers 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants.
• Citi® Double Cash Card: Provides 2% cashback on all purchases, including dining.
Stacking Opportunity: Use your rewards credit card to purchase digital gift cards through Fluz. This way, you earn credit card rewards and Fluz cashback simultaneously.
Note: Ensure that purchasing gift cards doesn’t affect your credit card rewards, as some issuers may have specific terms.
4. Combine Coupons and Promotional Offers
Before dining out, search for available coupons or promotional deals offered by the restaurant. These can often be found on the restaurant’s official website, app, or through third-party coupon sites.
Examples:
• Limited-Time Offers: Seasonal discounts or special menu promotions.
• Email Newsletters: Subscribe to receive exclusive deals and coupons.
• App-Exclusive Deals: Many restaurants offer special discounts for orders placed through their mobile apps.
Stacking Opportunity: Use a coupon or promotional offer when paying with a Fluz gift card purchased using a rewards credit card. Additionally, present your loyalty program information to accumulate points on the discounted purchase.
5. Plan and Time Your Visits
Timing your restaurant visits can also lead to additional savings.
Strategies:
• Happy Hours: Many establishments offer discounted prices during specific hours.
• Special Days: Some restaurants have daily specials or discounts on particular days of the week.
• Holiday Promotions: Look out for deals during holidays or special events.
Stacking Opportunity: Combine these time-based discounts with the previously mentioned strategies for maximum savings.
Conclusion:
By thoughtfully combining loyalty programs, cashback apps like Fluz, credit card rewards, and available coupons, you can significantly reduce your expenses on fast-casual dining. This strategic approach not only makes dining out more affordable but also enhances the overall value of your dining experience.
Note: Always review the terms and conditions of each program or offer to ensure compatibility and maximize benefits.
