First, it saves money. The expense of eating out adds up, and can be avoided by simply packing your lunch every day. If you spend a reasonable $7.00 for lunch each day, it's costing you $35.00 a week. If that does not sound like a lot to you, consider this - that comes to almost $1800.00 per year! I am sure you can think of better things than eating out to spend that amount on. For example, you could take a family vacation, fund your IRA, or even pay off a credit card. I am sure you can think of even more!



Next, for the most part, brown bagging is a healthier alternative to eating out. By having control of what goes into your lunch bag, you can avoid processed foods and fill up on the good stuff. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean meats - these all are easy to brown bag and ensure a nutritious diet.

On the other hand, if you are running down to the local sandwich shop every day at noon, do you really know what is in that chicken salad or bowl of chili? On top of that, the temptation to throw in a bag of chips or a sugary soda with your order can be hard to resist, especially when you are struggling to get through a rough day at work.

Another advantage is that it actually takes less time to brown bag. Admittedly, packing your lunch will require some preparation time at home. If you are like most people and have a hard time getting out of the front door on time every morning, pack it the night before. Even though you will have to spend a few minutes each day getting your lunch ready at home, it sure beats making a mad dash to one of the local eateries, only to wait in line for your turn to place an order, and then wait again as your order is prepared.

Just think of the things you can do with the time you save! Use your lunch break to take a walk, join an exercise group, or even take a nap. How about catching up on that novel you never have time to read, or spending some time cleaning out your email inbox?

Brown bagging does not mean that you have to use the standard toss in the trash paper lunch bag. No way! There are cute totes and lunch bags that not only will look great as you carry them into work, but will save a few trees as well. Reduce, reuse, recycle - it's easy to be green!

While we are on the topic of being green, forget the plastic sandwich bags that you have to continually throw away (and then restock!). Consider using reusable container. In the long run, you will save money. You also won't have the problem of your turkey on rye getting smashed by the apple you hastily threw on top!

Brown bagging in style - it's fun, it's easy, it's economical!