Grocery shopping can be a significant expense every month, especially for families with children. There are many ways to save money on your grocery bill at the supermarket without sacrificing the quality of your food.
Here are some tips and tricks for scoring supermarket savings every time you go shopping:.
Plan Your Meals
Before heading to the supermarket, plan out your meals for the week. This helps you avoid impulse buying and ensures that you buy only the ingredients you need.
Check your pantry, fridge, and freezer to see what items you already have and can incorporate into your meals. Make a shopping list and stick to it. This way, you won’t forget anything and won’t buy anything you don’t need.
Shop on a Full Stomach
Shopping on an empty stomach is a recipe for disaster. You’re more likely to impulse buy and end up with snacks and junk food that you don’t need.
Eat a filling meal or snack before heading to the supermarket, and you’ll be less tempted to buy unnecessary items.
Compare Prices
Before throwing an item in your cart, look at the unit price to see how much it costs per ounce or pound. Often, buying a larger size is cheapest, but it’s not always the case.
Some stores have their own brand items that are cheaper than name brands. Comparison shopping can save you a lot of money.
Use Coupons and Promo Codes
Coupons and promo codes are easy ways to save money on your grocery bill. Check your local newspaper, magazines, and store flyers for coupons and deals. Keep an eye out for coupon booklets or magazines in the store, which often offer valuable discounts.
Buy in Bulk
Buying non-perishable or frozen items in bulk can save you money in the long run. Check the unit price of bulk items to make sure you’re getting a good deal. Also, consider splitting a bulk purchase with family or friends.
It may be cheaper to buy a large container of a certain item and share it rather than buying smaller portions.
Shop on Sale Days
Most supermarkets have a regular sale schedule for specific items like meat, dairy, and produce. Shop on these days to get the best deals on these products. You can save a lot of money on these items if you buy them on sale and store them properly.
Avoid Pre-Packaged Produce
Pre-packaged produce is usually more expensive than buying loose produce. Opt to pick and choose your own fruits and vegetables, and you can save money in the process.
It’s also a great way to ensure that you’re getting the freshest possible produce for your meals.
Bring Your Own Bags
Some stores offer a small discount when you bring your bags, and it’s a great way to reduce waste. Reusable bags are more durable than plastic ones, and you can use them over and over again.
Keep them in your car or by your front door to remember to bring them next time you go shopping.
Don’t Shop in the Center Aisles
The center aisles in the grocery store are usually filled with processed snacks and junk food, and they’re often more expensive than other items. Stick to the perimeter of the store, where fresh produce, dairy, and meats are typically located.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be buying healthier foods for your family.
Use Reward Programs and Apps
Many stores offer reward programs and apps that allow you to earn points or cash back on your purchases. Sign up for these programs and download these apps to get the most out of your shopping experience.
You can use these rewards or cash back for future purchases, which means more savings in the long run.
Conclusion
With these tips, you can save money on your grocery bill every time you go shopping.
Plan your meals, shop on a full stomach, compare prices, use coupons and promo codes, buy in bulk, shop on sale days, avoid pre-packaged produce, bring your own bags, don’t shop in the center aisles, and use reward programs and apps. These small changes can lead to big savings and help you become a savvy supermarket shopper.