We’ve all been there, staring at the receipt in disbelief, and wondering how a quick trip for ‘just a few things’ ended up costing a small fortune? If you’ve ever felt like you’re funding the grocery store’s next renovation with your weekly shopping trips, then this guide is for you.
Check Before You Shop
Ever bought a carton of milk only to discover three more hiding in the back of your fridge? To avoid such costly oversights, take a quick inventory of your pantry and refrigerator before heading to the store. Snap a picture or make a list of what you already have and what you need. This simple step can save you from buying duplicates of items you already have at home.
Less is More
Limiting your trips to the grocery store can also help keep costs down. The less you’re physically at the store, the fewer opportunities you have for impulse purchases. So, plan your shopping trips wisely and resist the temptation to pop into the store for ‘just one thing’.
Stick to the List
Impulse buys can wreak havoc on your grocery budget. To combat this, make a shopping list and stick to it. Consider shopping alone to avoid distractions and lobbying for items not on the list or in your budget. Remember, every unlisted item you add to your cart is a step away from your money-saving goal.
Be an Active Shopper
In this age of inflation, passive shopping won’t cut it. Actively assess the prices of the items you buy regularly so you know when to grab a deal or pass. Pay attention to prices at more than one local store to learn where deals on certain products are better.
The ‘Coupon Clipper’ Technique
Subscribing to the Sunday paper can be a goldmine for grocery deals. Look for coupons and deals like ‘buy one, get one free’. But be wary of promotions with too many conditions or that encourage you to buy more than you need.
The ‘Brand Loyalty’ Tip
Use your brand loyalty to your advantage. Follow your favorite brands on social media or sign up for their mailing lists to get deals and offers sent directly to your inbox. But don’t be afraid to try out a budget brand or a store’s generic version for some products.
Rewards Card
Check your credit cards to see if you can earn cash back or other rewards when grocery shopping. Rewards credit cards can pay 1% to 6%, which could shave hundreds of dollars a year off your food costs. Just remember to pay the card off in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Make It a Habit
Saving money on groceries isn’t about depriving yourself or settling for less. It’s about making smart decisions that add up to big savings over time. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, remember these tips and watch your savings grow. Every penny saved is a penny earned…or in this case, a penny not spent on another loaf of bread you didn’t need!