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In today’s economy, saving money on meals is more important than ever. While many people choose to eat at home to cut costs, the price of groceries has increased significantly in recent years. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of groceries increased by nearly 12 percent in 2022 alone. This price rise has been particularly noticeable for kitchen staples like eggs and meat, which have become more expensive.
Despite these challenges, buying groceries and cooking at home is still more cost-effective than ordering takeouts or eating out at restaurants. Adopting the right supermarket shopping strategies allows you to control your grocery bills and avoid overspending.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting, there are many ways to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or taste. From planning your meals to shopping for deals and buying in bulk, there are plenty of creative ways to stretch your food budget and make the most of your grocery shopping trips.
So, if you’re overwhelmed by the rising cost of groceries, don’t fret. With planning and smart shopping strategies, you can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals at home without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to save money on groceries, here are some tips to help you avoid sticker shock at the store.
How to save money on groceries
Although grocery prices may be high, here are 30 ways to help you fill your cart, fridge, pantry, and stomach while staying within your budget.
1. Redefine dinner
Are you tired of preparing a huge, elaborate meal every evening? Do you picture a scene from a 1950s TV show with a pot roast, multiple side dishes, and a freshly baked cake? It’s time to give yourself a break and redefine what dinner means.
Instead of stressing over complicated meals every night, try serving simple meals that are easy to prepare. For example, pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fruit can make for a delicious and fun dinner that your kids will love. Or, have a soup and grilled cheese night for a comforting and easy meal.
Choosing simpler and cheaper meals can reduce stress levels and save money on your grocery budget. There’s no need to feel like you have to conform to traditional ideas of what dinner should be. Enjoy the freedom of redefining dinner to fit your lifestyle and needs.
2. Crunch some numbers while you shop
When you’re out shopping for groceries, it’s always a good idea to keep track of what you’re spending as you go. One easy way to do this is to use the calculator on your phone to crunch some numbers. Simply add up the cost of each item as you put it in your cart and keep a running total of your expenses.
This way, you can avoid unpleasant surprises when you get to the checkout counter. However, it’s important to remember to factor in sales tax when calculating your total, or your numbers will be inaccurate. By keeping track of your spending this way, you can stay within your budget and ensure you’re not overspending on your groceries.
3. Round up your grocery cost estimates
When saving money on groceries, a simple trick could make a big difference. All you need to do is round up the cost estimates of your grocery items. This means that instead of adding each item’s exact price, you round up to the nearest dollar or even to the next whole number.
For instance, if an avocado costs $1.49, you can round it up to $2; if a bag of coffee beans costs $7.75, you can round it up to $8. This way, you can still keep track of your expenses, but you’re more likely to spend less than anticipated. By rounding up, you’re creating a buffer zone that allows for any price differences or discounts that may apply.
So, next time you’re at the grocery store, grab your calculator and try this trick. You could be in for a pleasant surprise when you get to the checkout counter and see that your total is less than expected.
4. Raid your pantry
Riding your pantry and fridge is a great way to save money and reduce food waste. It might surprise you what kind of meals you can make with the ingredients you already have. Look through your pantry and fridge and see what you can find. There may be perfectly good chicken thighs or other meats hiding in the back of the freezer or cans of beans and salsa that have gone unopened on your shelves.
By exploring and getting creative with the ingredients you already have, you can save a lot of money on groceries. Although you might still need to buy a few extra items to make full meals, using the food you already have will reduce your grocery bill and prevent you from overbuying. Plus, it’s a great way to challenge yourself and develop new, delicious meal ideas. So don’t be afraid to raid your pantry and fridge and see what you can create!
5. Think before you buy in bulk
It’s important to be mindful of your shopping choices and avoid blindly buying in bulk. While buying in bulk can be a great way to save money, it’s not always the most cost-effective option. It’s crucial to compare the price per unit or ounce to ensure you get the best deal. Remember that the bigger bottle or package may not always be the most economical choice.
It’s also important to avoid overbuying, especially when it comes to perishable items. While stocking up on items you use frequently may be tempting, buying more than you need can lead to waste. This is particularly true for items that have a limited shelf life. For example, purchasing a large bag of oranges may seem like a good idea, but if you’re unable to consume them before they go bad, you’ll end up throwing away good money along with the spoiled fruit. So, it’s always a good idea to buy only what you need and use it up before buying more.
6. Know when to shop
Knowing when to shop is crucial to save money on your grocery bills. One way to do this is to find out if your preferred grocery store has a specific day of the week when they offer special deals. Some stores may offer discounts on certain products or categories, while others may have a store-wide sale. It’s a good idea to check their website or weekly circular to see what’s on offer.
Another way to save money is to be aware of the sales cycles. This means understanding when grocery stores sell their new weekly deals. For example, some stores may release their new deals every Sunday, while others might do it on a different day of the week. Knowing when these sales start will allow you to plan your shopping accordingly and take advantage of the best deals available. So, watch for sales cycles and note the days when your store offers special deals to get the most out of your grocery shopping.
7. Start freezing and storing meals now
If you’re looking for a way to save money on food and reduce your stress levels, consider starting to freeze and store your meals. Freezer meals are a great way to have home-cooked meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen daily.
To get started, search online for freezer meal recipes that appeal to your taste buds. You can find recipes for every cuisine and dietary preference. Once you have the recipes you want to try, dedicate a few hours to meal prepping. Cut up vegetables, cook meats, and measure out spices and seasonings. Then, assemble the meals in freezer-safe containers and store them in your freezer.
When it’s time for dinner, take a container from the freezer, thaw it, and cook it according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll never have to worry about ingredients going bad before you use them, and you’ll always have a delicious and nutritious meal waiting for you.
By meal prepping and freezing your meals, you’ll save time and money. You’ll be able to buy ingredients in bulk, take advantage of sales, and avoid expensive takeout meals. Plus, you’ll be able to say no to fast food temptations, knowing you have a tasty and easy dinner option at home.
In summary, freezing and storing meals is a great tip for busy budgeters who want to eat healthy, save money, and reduce stress. Give it a try and see how much easier mealtime can be!
8. Pay with cash
One of the effective ways to manage your grocery budget is to pay with cash. Using cash helps you keep track of your expenses and avoid overspending. Instead of using your credit or debit card, consider withdrawing a certain amount of cash and using it for grocery shopping.
To make this system work, you can create a cash envelope system to allocate a specific amount for each budget line, including groceries. This way, you can easily monitor your spending and ensure you don’t exceed your budget.
When you go to the store with cash, you have a clear idea of how much you can spend, and you are less likely to make impulse purchases. Once the cash runs out, you know it’s time to stop spending. This method can help you stay on track with your budget and avoid overspending on groceries.
9. Make a meal plan
One of the best ways to save money on groceries is by making a meal plan and a grocery list before heading out to the store. This helps you stay on budget and ensures you have all the necessary ingredients when it’s time to cook. To begin with, take a look at what you already have in your fridge, pantry, and freezer.
This way, you can use up any items that are about to expire and avoid buying duplicates. Additionally, use sales ads and coupons while planning your meals to take advantage of the best deals available. By doing this, you can save a significant amount of money on your grocery bill each month while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals.
10. Stick to the grocery list
After creating your meal plan and grocery list, it’s important to stick to it when you go shopping. Following your list will help you avoid impulse purchases that can quickly add up and blow your budget.
It’s easy to get tempted by all the tasty treats and new products lining the aisles, but remember that those purchases could go to waste if they don’t fit into your meal plan. By sticking to your list, you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also stay on track with your healthy eating goals. So, take a deep breath, focus on your list, and resist the urge to stray from it. You’ve got this!
11. Order curbside pickup
If you tend to get easily distracted while shopping in person and buy items not on your list, ordering groceries for curbside pickup might be the best option. By doing so, you can avoid the temptation of buying those fresh and delicious bakery items that catch your eye when you’re innocently reaching for the items on your list.
Moreover, shopping online offers an easy way to compare prices of different brands, see what’s on sale, and watch the total cost add up in real time without a calculator. This saves you time and allows you to make informed purchasing decisions.
It’s worth noting that many stores offer curbside pickup service at no additional charge. If there is a small fee, you can still save money overall with this method. So, it’s always a good idea to do some math and see how much money you can save.
12. Shop in season
When grocery shopping on a tight budget, paying attention to what produce is in season can make a huge difference. For instance, purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables that are out of season can be expensive, as they may need to be imported from other regions.
Moreover, the flavor and quality of off-season produce can often be subpar, as they may not have ripened properly. By contrast, shopping for seasonal produce can help you save money and get the best possible quality. You can check out your local farmers’ markets or grocery stores to see what’s currently in season.
For example, you can indulge in juicy peaches, sweet berries, and ripe tomatoes during the summer, while the fall season brings delicious squash, pumpkins, and apples. By planning your meals around what’s in season, you can enjoy a variety of fresh, healthy, and affordable produce all year round.
13. Ignore eye-level items
Have you ever noticed that the products placed right at your eye level on grocery store shelves are the most expensive? This is not a coincidence, as grocery stores employ clever marketing techniques to influence our buying decisions. By placing expensive items at eye level, stores increase the chance of seeing them and being tempted to buy them, even if we didn’t plan to.
However, to save money on groceries, it’s important to be aware of these tactics and not fall for them. One way to do this is to look up and down the shelves as you shop. The more affordable brands and products are usually higher or lower on the shelves. This is because they have to compete with the more expensive eye-level items, so they are often placed in less prominent positions that may require a little extra effort to find.
Now that you know about these marketing tricks, you can be more conscious while shopping and avoid overspending on groceries. By looking for the more affordable brands located higher or lower on the shelves, you can save money without sacrificing the quality of your groceries.
14. Try different grocery stores
If you feel like you’re spending too much money on groceries, it might be time to explore different grocery stores. Instead of sticking with your go-to store, try branching out and shopping at other places to see if you can find better deals.
One way to start is by finding the cheapest grocery stores in your area. Some examples of affordable stores include Aldi, Market Basket, WinCo Foods, Food 4 Less, Costco, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s. These stores often have lower prices than other grocery stores, saving you much money in the long run.
However, it’s important not to get too comfortable at just one store. To get the most savings, check the weekly ads of competing grocery stores to see what’s on sale. Then, plan your shopping trips to take advantage of the best deals. By doing this, you can be sure you’re getting the best prices on your groceries and keeping more money in your pocket.
15. Save certain purchases for when they’re on sale
One smart way to stick to your budget while still buying the items you love is waiting for them to go on sale. It’s a great strategy to save money on those expensive name-brand items you can’t compromise on. But how do you make it work without sacrificing your favorite products?
Simple! Keep an eye on sale trends and wait until your desired items are available at a discounted price or with a coupon – or even better, both! Doing so can save a significant amount of money on your grocery purchases. So, to be a smart shopper, stock up on your favorite things only when you’ve got a deal.
16. Limit your shopping trips
Limiting your trips to the store can help you save money when it comes to grocery shopping. Every time you visit the store, you increase the chance of buying items not on your grocery list, which can result in overspending.
To make this tip more effective, it’s essential to stick to your grocery list and meal plan. By planning your meals ahead and only purchasing the items you need, you’ll reduce the number of times you need to visit the store and minimize the temptation to buy unnecessary items.
17. Don’t shop when you’re hungry
When it comes to grocery shopping, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about making a list and sticking to it. A crucial factor affecting your shopping experience and budget is your hunger level. Have you ever noticed that when you’re hungry, everything seems more appealing, and you’re more likely to make impulse purchases? This is because hunger can influence our decision-making and lead us to buy items that we don’t necessarily need.
To avoid overspending and making unhealthy food choices, it’s recommended that you eat a meal or a snack before heading to the grocery store. This will help you feel satisfied and less tempted by the various food options. Additionally, shopping on a full stomach can enable you to make more rational decisions and stick to your grocery list, resulting in a lower overall bill.
So, the next time you plan a grocery trip, be mindful of your hunger level and consider having a healthy snack or meal beforehand. Trust us, your wallet and your waistline will thank you!
18. Don’t buy more than you need
If you enjoy finding ways to save on groceries, you might be tempted to buy items on sale or use coupons to get a good deal. However, it is important to remember that buying more than you need will cost you more money in the long run.
It is crucial only to buy what you had planned for in your grocery list, avoiding any unnecessary purchases. This way, you can ensure you are not overspending and stick to your budget effectively. Remember, a deal is not a deal if it costs you more money than you intended to spend.
19. Test out your green thumb
If you are looking for a way to eat healthy without spending too much money, one option is to plant your garden. Although it may not be possible for everyone, it can be a rewarding experience to grow your own vegetables and herbs. By planting tomatoes, bell peppers, and cauliflower, you can avoid buying them from the store. In addition, you can start small by planting herbs like parsley, cilantro, and rosemary right on your kitchen windowsill, which is an easy and convenient way to add fresh flavor to your meals.
Moreover, if you have an abundance of produce, you can puree it and pour it into ice cube trays to freeze for later use. By doing this, you can extend the shelf life of your harvest and have fresh herbs and vegetables all year round. Furthermore, growing your own garden can be a fun and healthy hobby that allows you to connect with nature and learn new skills. So, if you have the space and resources, why not put your green thumb to the test and start growing your garden today?
20. Use apps on your smartphone
When you’re looking to cut down on your grocery expenses, it’s worth considering the numerous coupon apps available on your smartphone. These apps can help you save money on your daily purchases.
Some popular coupon apps include Ibotta, Receipt Hog, Checkout 51, and Target Circle. With these apps, you can easily browse the available offers and claim cashback or discounts on your purchases. So, don’t forget to check out these apps before your next grocery run!
21. Try going meatless for a meal
Incorporating meatless meals into your diet can not only be good for your health, but it can also be a budget-friendly option. While meat is a great source of protein, it can also be quite expensive.
You don’t have to eliminate meat from your diet completely, but having a meatless meal once or twice a week can help cut costs. Additionally, a plant-based diet can provide various health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering cholesterol levels, and promoting weight loss. Therefore, I encourage you to incorporate meatless recipes into your weekly meal plan.
You might be surprised at how delicious and satisfying a meatless meal can be. Meatless Monday is a popular trend where people commit to having one meatless meal every Monday, but you can choose any day of the week that works best for you. You can find many meatless recipe ideas online or in cookbooks, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen.
22. Buy meat only when it’s on sale
Another great way to save money on groceries is to buy meat on sale. When you purchase meat, try to get what’s on sale and plan your meals around it. This means you should watch for great bulk deals on meat and buy in larger quantities, but only if you know you’ll be able to use it all up before it goes bad.
Another way to save money on meat is to look for cheaper alternatives to what you usually buy. For example, you could opt for ground chuck instead of buying sirloin, which is often cheaper. Similarly, pork loin is usually cheaper than pork chops. By making these simple swaps, you can still enjoy your favorite meals with meat while saving some money.
Finally, if you buy more meat than you can use in a week, don’t let it go to waste! Instead, freeze it for later use. This way, you can take advantage of great deals on meat without worrying about it going bad.
23. Eat leftovers for lunch
If you’re looking for ways to save money, one simple solution is to eat leftovers for lunch instead of dining out. It may seem tempting to eat out for lunch, but the truth is that restaurants are not groceries. They charge a premium for the convenience of serving you food. This adds up over time, and you may spend more than you realize.
For example, if you spend $10 twice a week on lunches, that’s $80 a month on going out to eat. And that’s not even including date nights or Fridays out with friends. Taking leftovers from the meals you’re already prepping during the week can save significant money and put that extra $80 each month toward other goals.
So, before ordering takeout or going out for lunch, consider the cost and the long-term impact on your budget. Eating leftovers may not be as glamorous as dining out, but it’s a simple and effective way to save money without sacrificing the quality of your meals.
24. Buy generic
It is often believed that buying name-brand products is the best choice as they are of superior quality. However, according to Consumer Reports, most store brands are just as good as the popular name brands in terms of taste and quality. Not only that, but they come at a lower price of about 20-25% on average.
So, it might be worth giving generic brands a try. Don’t worry about compromising on taste or quality. Many chefs and food experts also prefer generic brands for staples like sugar, salt, and baking soda. They know what they are discussing regarding food, so it’s worth heeding their advice and saving money on everyday grocery items. Start small, and you’ll soon realize that generic brands can be just as good as expensive name brands, if not better.
25. If you buy it—use it!
When it comes to grocery shopping, it’s important to be mindful of what we buy and how we use it. Every time we throw away spoiled produce, it’s like throwing away money. Despite having a meal plan and a grocery list, it’s still easy to end up wasting food, especially when it comes to perishable items like bananas.
That’s why it’s essential to make a conscious effort to use what we buy. If you purchase bananas intending to have your kids snack on them throughout the week, make sure they actually do. Don’t let them go to waste. By being intentional with our food choices and usage, we can minimize waste and save money in the long run. So, the next time you go grocery shopping, keep in mind that every item you buy should be used to its fullest potential to avoid unnecessary waste and expenses.
26. Shop the farmers market at the end of the day
If you like to buy locally sourced fresh produce and support local farmers, visiting the farmers market is a great option for you. However, it is important to note that most items at farmer’s markets are not necessarily cheaper than what you might find at a grocery store.
That being said, if you want to get good deals and save money, it’s a good idea to visit the farmers market at the end of the day. Vendors are usually more willing to offer discounts and deals on the remaining items because they don’t want to take them back home with them. Therefore, if you can time your visit just before closing time, you might be able to score some great deals on fresh produce that you can use to prepare delicious and healthy meals at home.
27. Preserve and store away
During the summer months, when the farmers’ markets are overflowing with fresh produce, it’s a great time to buy in bulk and preserve your favorite fruits and vegetables for winter. This may require extra expenses, such as stocking up on canning jars and other preservation equipment, but it is a wise investment in the long run.
Imagine the delight of having your homemade tomato sauce, salsa, or pickles on the shelf when the winter months come around. Not only will it save you money, but it will also provide you with a healthy, delicious, and convenient meal option for those busy weeknights.
When winter arrives, and fresh produce is less abundant and more expensive, you’ll be glad you took the time to preserve and store away your favorite ingredients. Imagine the satisfaction of cooking up a pot of pasta and pulling out a container of your homemade tomato sauce to serve up a delicious, hearty, and super-cheap dinner for your family. So, go ahead and stock up on those extra fruits and veggies, invest in some canning equipment, and start preserving your favorite flavors today!
28. Shop the outside aisles of the store
When you’re at the grocery store, it’s important to be mindful of your budget and health goals. That’s why it’s a good idea to focus your shopping on the outer aisles of the store. These aisles tend to contain the freshest and healthiest options, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
By avoiding the inside aisles, often filled with processed foods that can be expensive and unhealthy, you can stick to your budget and make healthier choices for yourself and your family. So next time you’re at the store, remember to shop the outside aisles first!
29. Skip the packaging
When grocery shopping, it’s always a good idea to skip the prepackaged salads and opt for unpackaged fruits and veggies. This is because prepackaged salads with dressing packets and fixings can cost twice as much as a head of lettuce with some homemade dressing. Not only are fresh fruits and veggies cheaper, but they’re also usually healthier as they’re not processed with added preservatives and chemicals.
Although it may take a little extra time to chop and prep your own fruits and vegetables, it’s worth it in terms of the money you’ll save. By choosing to cut and prepare your own produce, you’ll save money and have the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into your food. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to ditch the prepackaged salads and go for the fresh, unpackaged options instead.
30. Leave the overspenders at home
If you often overspend at the grocery store, it may be wise to take some precautions. First and foremost, it’s important to remember that purchasing items not on your shopping list can quickly add up and lead to unnecessary expenses. If your children often add these extra items to your cart, you may want to consider leaving them at home or asking them to stay in the car while you shop.
If your spouse or partner is guilty of overspending, suggest that they stay home or wait outside the store while you complete the shopping. Alternatively, if you are the one who struggles with sticking to your list, consider delegating the task to someone who is more disciplined when it comes to following a budget. Remember, it’s important to prioritize your financial goals and avoid overspending whenever possible.
Grocery shopping on a budget doesn’t have to be hard
When it comes to grocery shopping, it’s easy to overspend and end up blowing your budget. However, with a few simple habits, you can easily reduce your monthly grocery bill and stay on track with your finances. Doing so means you’ll have more money to pay off debt, save for the future, or even treat yourself to something enjoyable.
One effective way to save money on groceries is to plan your meals in advance. By creating a weekly meal plan, you can make a shopping list that includes only the items you need and avoid buying unnecessary items on impulse. Additionally, consider purchasing store-brand items instead of name-brand products, as they are often just as good but less expensive.
Another way to save on groceries is to buy in bulk. Non-perishable items such as rice, beans, and pasta can be bought in larger quantities and stored for later use. Additionally, consider buying fresh produce in season as it tends to be less expensive and tastes better.
Lastly, don’t forget to use coupons and take advantage of sales. Many stores offer discounts on certain items, so check their weekly ads and plan your shopping accordingly. Additionally, look for coupons in your local newspaper or online and use them to save even more money.
By following these tips, you can easily lower your grocery bill, stick to your budget, and meet your financial goals faster. So why not try them out and enjoy the benefits of saving money on groceries?