Grocery shopping is a necessary task that we all must do in order to feed ourselves and our families. However, it can be a major expense in our monthly budgets. Fortunately, there are many ways to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or nutrition. In this article, we will explore some tips and strategies that can help you save money on groceries.
1. Make a grocery list
The first step to save money on groceries is to make a list before you go shopping. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and ensure that you only buy what you need. Take inventory of what you already have in your pantry and fridge and create a list of the items that you need. Stick to your list when you’re at the store and avoid buying items that are not on it.
2. Plan your meals
Meal planning is an effective way to save money on groceries. When you plan your meals ahead of time, you can make sure that you have all the ingredients you need and avoid buying unnecessary items. Plan your meals for the week and create a shopping list based on the recipes you plan to make. You can also use leftovers from one meal to create another meal, reducing food waste and saving money.
3. Shop at discount grocery stores
Discount grocery stores can be a great place to save money on groceries. These stores often have lower prices on items over traditional grocery stores. Check out stores like Aldi for discounted groceries. If you live in a more rural area, consider Dollar Tree or Dollar General for things that you would get elsewhere. 100% apple juice is 100% apple juice, whether it’s purchased from Kroeger or a discount store. Keep in mind that these stores may not have the same selection as traditional grocery stores, so you may need to shop at multiple stores to get everything on your list.
4. Buy in bulk
Buying in bulk is a great way to save money on groceries, especially for non-perishable items. Items like rice, pasta, and canned goods can be bought in bulk for a lower price per unit. This strategy is especially effective if you have a large family or if you cook for a group of people. Just be sure to check the unit price to ensure that you’re actually getting a good deal.
If you’ve got a Costco or Sam’s Club nearby, these are great places for non-perishables.
5. Use coupons and rewards programs
Coupons and rewards programs can be a great way to save money on groceries. Look for coupons in your local newspaper or online. Many grocery stores also have rewards programs that offer discounts and coupons. Sign up for these programs and take advantage of the savings.
However, use caution. These stores like to send extra coupons for things that might not be on your list. If you have a coupon for something on your list, then use it. If not, avoid the coupon for Oreos and Red Vines.
6. Buy generic brands
Generic or store-brand products can often be just as good as name-brand products. These products are typically less expensive than their name-brand counterparts. Look for generic brands of items like cereal, pasta, and canned goods to save money on your grocery bill.
7. Buy seasonal produce
Buying produce that is in season is a great way to save money on groceries. Seasonal produce is typically less expensive than out-of-season produce because it’s more readily available. Plus, it’s often fresher and tastes better. Shop at your local farmer’s market or check the produce section of your grocery store to find out what’s in season.
Farmer’s markets are also a great way to support local, small businesses, get out of the house, get some sun, and meet interesting people.
8. Avoid pre-packaged items
Pre-packaged items like pre-cut fruits and vegetables, individually packaged snacks, and frozen meals can be convenient, but they’re often more expensive than buying the ingredients and preparing them yourself. Buy whole fruits and vegetables and cut them yourself to save money. Make your own snacks by buying ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit in bulk. Cook your own meals instead of buying frozen dinners.
9. Don’t shop when you’re hungry
Shopping when you’re hungry can lead to impulse purchases and overspending. Eat a meal or snack before you go grocery shopping to avoid temptation.
10. Compare prices
Comparing prices at different stores can help you find the best deals on the items you need. Check out prices at different grocery stores and online retailers to see where you can get the best deal. Don’t assume that one store always has the lowest prices – it’s important to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.
I made a spreadsheet of all the groceries we buy on a regular basis within a month. I divided it into two sections: weekly and “things to check” like peanut butter, sour cream, etc. I then went to Costco and Aldi to compare the prices of each item and wrote them on my spreadsheet to make sure I was getting the best deal. Just make sure to compare unit/volume prices to ensure you’re making apples to apples comparisons.
11. Buy meat in bulk
Meat can be one of the most expensive items on your grocery bill. One way to save money on meat is to buy it in bulk. Look for deals on larger cuts of meat or buy meat in larger quantities and freeze it for later use. You can also buy cheaper cuts of meat and slow cook them to make them more tender and flavorful.
Also consider meatless meals from time to time to cut down on costs.
12. Use cashback apps
Cashback apps like Ibotta, Checkout 51, and SavingStar can help you save money on groceries. These apps offer cashback on certain items or purchases, which can add up over time. Just be sure to check the app before you go shopping to see what deals are available.
13. Don’t buy bottled water
Buying bottled water can be expensive and wasteful. Instead, invest in a reusable water bottle and fill it up at home or at water fountains when you’re out and about. This will save you money and reduce plastic waste.
14. Don’t waste food
Food waste is not only bad for the environment, but it’s also bad for your wallet. Make sure to use up all the food you buy before it goes bad. Plan your meals around the ingredients you have on hand and freeze any leftovers for later use. You can also get creative with your leftovers and turn them into new dishes. Think “Chopped”.
15. Use a cash budget
Using a cash budget can help you stick to your grocery budget. Withdraw the amount of cash you’ve allotted for groceries and only use that cash for your purchases. This will help you avoid overspending and keep you accountable for your grocery budget.
Try setting a number, say $200 per week for a 3 person household, and give it a shot. If you find that it’s not enough for the essentials, adjust upwards by $15. If it’s too much, try lowering it by $15. I like making it a game to see how much we can save on each grocery trip.
For perspective, for our family of five (two adults and three children), we spend $750 per month on groceries using the tactics above.
Final Thoughts
There are many ways to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or nutrition. By making a grocery list, planning your meals, shopping at discount stores, buying in bulk, using coupons and rewards programs, buying generic brands, buying seasonal produce, avoiding pre-packaged items, not shopping when you’re hungry, comparing prices, buying meat in bulk, using cashback apps, not buying bottled water, not wasting food, and using a cash budget, you can reduce your grocery bill and keep more money in your pocket. Incorporate some or all of these strategies into your grocery shopping routine to see the savings add up over time.
Good luck!
-Chris