Living on a tight budget can be tough, as it is. And with rising inflation and overpriced groceries, it’s now more important than ever to find ways to save. While groceries are a necessary expense, they don’t have to break the bank. By making a few strategic changes to your shopping habits, you can save big without sacrificing quality or variety. Luckily, we have some tips to help you save money on groceries and stretch your money further in this guide.
If you’ve gone to the grocery store lately, you’ve probably noticed how expensive things are. The increasing cost of putting food on the table is something that is discussed regularly nowadays as it affects everyone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average grocery bill for a household of four people is almost $700 a month now.* With prices like this, it’s important to find areas where you can save. So, here are 14 easy ways for you to save money grocery shopping.
How to Save Money on Groceries
Here are 14 easy tips to help you save money grocery shopping:
1. Plan Your Meals and Make a Shopping List
Take a few minutes each week to plan your meals and create a detailed shopping list. If you go shopping knowing exactly what you need, you’re less likely to make impulse purchases. Stick to your list to avoid grabbing items that you don’t need, which usually leads to overspending.
2. Set a Grocery Budget
Come up with a monthly or weekly grocery budget based on your household needs. Sticking to a set amount can help keep you on track. It can also help prevent you from buying things you don’t need.
3. Shop with a Full Stomach to Save Money on Groceries
This may seem like a silly one, but it’s true! Going grocery shopping when you’re hungry can lead to impulse purchases, especially for snacks and treats. Next time you go to the grocery store, make sure to eat before you shop, so you’re less tempted to buy things you don’t need.
4. Loyalty Programs Can Help You Save Money on Groceries
To save more money, explore your local store’s loyalty program. Many grocery stores offer loyalty programs that provide exclusive discounts, reward points, or cash back. You can save money grocery shopping through these loyalty programs because they’re free to join. You can join all the loyalty programs for the stores in your area, so no matter where you shop, you’re more likely to get a deal. Take advantage of these programs but watch out for “member-only” deals that could cause you to buy things you don’t need.
5. Look for Sales and Use Coupons
You probably receive tons of coupons in the mail each month. Sort through them and pick out the grocery coupons! Then, set them aside for your next grocery run.
Typically, these coupon mailers will also let you know about a store’s weekly or daily specials. These specials are usually the same from week to week. So, once you know that Monday is the day for 50% off chicken or that Tuesday gets you discounts on produce, you know exactly when and where to go to save money grocery shopping.
But coupons don’t just come in the mail. Check store flyers, websites, or apps for discounts and sales on items you regularly buy. Take advantage of buy-one-get-one-free offers when they’re available.
6. Stay in the Outer Loop
Grocery stores are usually organized in a way that tempts you to enter the inner aisles to find what you need. What you don’t know is that those inner aisles mostly have junk food and pricier items that you don’t need when you’re struggling to save money on groceries. Stay on the outer loop to find only the things you absolutely must buy when grocery shopping on a tight budget. Milk, bread, meat, and fresh produce is all on the outer loop of your local chain, so stay on the outside and ignore the high-priced groceries within!
7. Store Apps
Because nearly everyone has a smart phone these days, most grocery stores are jumping on the bandwagon and creating their own apps. These are usually free downloads that allow you to save coupons and keep track of cashback savings. You can scan coupons directly from your phone in case you forget your coupon book at home or didn’t have time to clip any from the paper.
Take a close look at discounted options on the apps and compare them to buying value packs. This can help guarantee you’re getting the best price to save money on groceries.
8. Choose Store Brands Over Name Brands
Most stores offer their own take on the most popular products, from food to feminine necessities. You can save over 25% on everything when you shop store brands instead of brand names! Plus, store brands often have the same ingredients and quality as name brands but cost a lot less. If you’re looking at products with complicated ingredient lists, compare the brand name to the store option and you’ll probably discover that these products are exactly the same! So next time you head to your local grocery store, opt for store brands to save money on groceries.
9. Buy in Bulk (When It Makes Sense)
Certain items like rice, pasta, canned goods, and cleaning supplies are cheaper when you buy them in bulk. So, make sure to check if there are bulk deals for items you buy often. However, try to avoid buying perishables in large amounts unless you’re sure you can use them before they expire.
10. Shop Seasonally and Locally
Seasonal produce is usually cheaper and fresher than out-of-season options. When you can, buy fruits and vegetables that are in season to get the best price.
Visiting a local farmers’ market can sometimes offer fresh, affordable produce, especially towards the end of the day when vendors tend to discount items.
11. Check the Unit Price
The unit price (price per ounce, pound, etc.) is usually listed on the item. Comparing unit prices across brands or sizes can help you figure out which option provides the most value to get the best deal.
12. Buy Less Meat to Save Money on Groceries
Meat is often one of the most expensive items on a grocery list. Consider going meatless for a few meals each week or using smaller portions of meat in dishes like stir-fries or pasta to save money.
13. Avoid Pre-Packaged and Pre-Cut Foods
Pre-cut fruits and vegetables, pre-shredded cheese, and individually wrapped snacks can be convenient but are often much more expensive. Instead, buy whole items and prep them yourself to save money.
14. Freeze Leftovers and Perishables
Avoid wasting food by freezing your leftovers and any perishable items you may not use right away. If you see a great deal on fresh produce or meat, you can buy extra and freeze it to use later.
Try These Tips to Save Money on Groceries
These money-saving strategies are easy to implement and can make a big difference over time. By shopping smartly, planning ahead, and being mindful of what you’re buying, you can keep your grocery bill in check without sacrificing quality or taste. Happy saving!
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