It is possible to save money on groceries no matter your financial situation. All it takes are a few tweaks in the right direction to get things moving.
As with almost everything, the first few steps are usually the hardest.
As you implement these tips on a regular basis and gradually make them a part of your routine they can make quite a difference over time.
Let’s get your grocery shopping in check since it is one of the biggest money ‘pits’.
Make a Grocery List
Whenever you are going grocery shopping It is important to make a grocery list and stick to it.
Have a look at ads from your local grocery store and note the best deals or browse prices at local online grocery delivery service.
Your mind will then be primed with the amount to spend on each item, so at least you will have an estimated amount.
Not only will it help you to avoid impulse buying but it will also help you to finish your shopping in a shorter time frame. Not to mention time to spare to get on with other things in your life.
Zoom in on Sale Items
Take advantage of items that are on sale. This is extremely important when it comes to saving money on groceries and don’t forget your coupons. They really do come in handy so use them wisely.
It’s also useful to know the average prices of items so that you can spot a good deal. Knowing the product pricing is key just be mindful of expiration dates when stocking up.
If you like variety in your diet, you will save a fortune over time. As long as it is on sale and it’s something that you will use, stock up on these items.
You can also stock up on produce that is not quite ripe, this will give you a few days or a week before you can consume them.
Generic Brands
I know some of us like to get the name brand items. The truth is, they woo us because of the way they are packaged and we know the quality often associated with that particular brand.
But, don’t sleep on generic brands because they are usually equal in value to the name brand.
So save money by reaching for generic brands which are more reasonably priced. Here’s the thing, sometimes it’s the same product but with different packaging.
Make Your Own Meals
Avoid eating out as much as possible. Don’t get it twisted, there is nothing wrong with treating yourself every once in a while.
Heck! we would all love to treat ourselves all the time, but if you are serious about saving money preparing your own meals is a no brainer.
In this way, when you prepare your own meals, you will be able to control your wallet.
You’ll also get a better handle on what you eat and your portion sizes and in the process eat healthier meals.
You can save time by freezing leftovers or better yet meal prep and allocate your portion sizes to different Tupperware and freeze.
That way your meals just need to be heated when you are ready for breakfast, lunch or dinner. This saves a ton load on restaurants, take out and your time.
Ditch Pre-Prepped
Don’t buy foods that have been pre-prepped for you. For instance, chicken that has already been seasoned and packaged with bell peppers, garlic, onion, rosemary, etc.
Vegetables, fruit trays or other items like that are also included in the pre-prepped category.
You might not be aware, but you have to pay for this service of having someone chop them up for you.
When you purchase these items you pay more for less food….you are wasting your money.
Make your own juices and cook your own beans. In that way, you’ll know exactly what you’re putting in your body. And, the added bonus is that there are no harmful additives.
So it stands to reason that you do the prep work yourself and don’t be held hostage by convenience.
Farmers Market
Sometimes the value of the farmers market depends on where you live but if there is a local farmers market near you, check it out.
Prices are usually better or similar for high-quality fresh food which is usually hormone and chemical-free.
Another aspect you can look at if you have the space for it, is to do some gardening and grow your own vegetables.
If you don’t have the space you could probably grow a herb garden as an option.
Loyalty programs
There are reward systems that offer actual value to their customers that keeps them coming back again and again.
Joining a loyalty program is one such system and can be another way of getting good discounts if you are a frequent shopper.
There are stores and supermarkets that offer incentives in the form of points, discounts, special offers, coupons, cashback or freebies.
When these incentives are built up over time, they can be used to offset your purchases in part or totally if you are a frequent customer.
As long as the rewards offered are of value to you at whatever store you shop, take advantage of this system and maximize these rewards offered to you.
What are your strategies for saving money on groceries?
