Grocery Saving Tips

Often times when people go to the grocery store, they are in need of grocery. Some will walk through every aisle looking to see if they need anything in those aisles, while others will go only to the aisles where they need items. I am always looking for ways to spend less on grocery and to cut my time in the grocery store as much as possible, so I could move on to other things, so here are a few grocery tips I have learned over the years.

1. Always Have a List

I’ve learned that going to the grocery store with a list, always ensures that I spend less than if I was to go without a list. I keep a list on our fridge and if something runs out, we write it down on the grocery list on the fridge. This helps us to only buy what we need. It also helps me to get in and out of the grocery store as quickly as possible. If you happen to see something on your trip to the grocery store and forgot to write it down on your list, and have a tight budget. Consider swapping one of the items in your cart with the item that you wish to buy.

2. Price Match

Price matching has completely changed the way I shop. It takes time to go through all of the flyers, but if I can save some money every time I go grocery shopping it’s worth it. I’ve recently noticed that some grocery stores have price match lines, so it doesn’t inconvenience people who are not price matching.

3. Check out the Discount Section 

Most if not all grocery stores have a little section where items are discounted beyond their regular sale. There are often fruits and vegetables in these sections. They are sometimes a bit bruised and not as fresh. If you plan to use them right away or freeze them, it’s not a bad idea to pick them up at a discounted price.

4. Buying in Bulk

Buying in bulk is often cheaper than buying single items. Especially if you have a large family to feed. If you’re single or have a small family, it may not be worth it for you to buy a lot of items that may go bad. Compare prices and see what makes sense for your family.

5. Meal Plans

Doing a meal plan can also help to stay on track when it comes to grocery shopping. Deciding what you’re going to cook for the week at the beginning of the week can help when going grocery shopping, because you know exactly what food items you need to get for that week. It also helps to stay organized and saves time on having to think of what you’re going to make for dinner when you get home from work.

What are some strategies you use when grocery shopping?

Picture by Niall Kennedy

By Shondell Varcianna

September 19, 2014