Groceries can be expensive, but there are ways to save money during your next trip to the store. Below are a few simple tips to help you take control of your grocery budget.
Have a plan. Before you leave your house, check your fridge and pantry. Knowing what you have keeps you from buying duplicate items. Consider meal planning and what you’ll need to purchase based on your intended meals.
Limit your trips. Fewer trips save on gas, and the less often you are physically at the store, the fewer opportunities you have for impulse purchases.
Stick to your list. Make a shopping list for all the items you need. When you’re in the store, do your best to buy only the items on your list.
Compare brands. Store brands can be less expensive than some of the name-brand foods. Compare the items to find better prices.
Look at the price per unit. Most store shelf labels list the price per unit (ounce, pound, gram, etc.). Compare different packages of similar items to be sure you’re getting the most for your money.
Consider generic options. Products similar to name brands often cost less and work just as effectively.
Buy when foods are on sale. Maximize your savings by using coupons on sale items. When you find deals such as “buy one get one free,” stock up.
Buy in bulk. Some foods are significantly cheaper when purchased in bulk. So when it makes sense, buy large quantities and freeze or pressure can foods for use later. When considering items you use all the time, such as toilet paper, soap or laundry detergent, you may get a better deal by buying in bulk and storing them.
In-store options. Look for coupons on your receipt. Some stores also have peel-off coupons on items and signs along aisle shelves.
Coupons. Don’t overlook that so-called “junk mail.” Many brands send coupons in mailers. Search online for “coupons” or locate coupon apps on your smartphone.
Look for savings in the newspaper. Sunday papers often include inserts with a variety of coupons. On certain days, some stores will double the value of brand-name coupons.
Join your store’s loyalty program. Signing up is usually free, and you can receive savings and electronic coupons when you provide your email address.
Follow your favorite brands. They typically offer incentives when you subscribe to a newsletter or mailing list for a name-brand product. Use your brand loyalty to your advantage by getting a discount on your favorite beverages, laundry detergent or snacks.
Say “Thanks.” If you really love a product, email the customer service address. Your appreciation will often result in coupons for discounts or free items.
See if the store will match competitors’ coupons. Many competing stores will accept coupons as long as they are for the same item. Check with the customer service desk at the store for further information.
Stay organized so coupons are easy to find. When using paper coupons, sort them by item or in alphabetical order. Develop a system that’s easiest for you and make finding coupons quick and hassle-free. Ideas for coupon storage include three-ring binders, accordion-style organizers or envelopes.
Find a coupon buddy. Swap coupons you won’t use with a friend who may find it beneficial.
Avoid online grocery shopping. While online grocery services are convenient, they can also be costly because you may be forced to pay for a more expensive item if the one you order is unavailable. Additionally, some grocery orders are fulfilled by third-party sellers that add shipping costs to your bill.
Shop farmer's market toward the end of the day. You can often find deals at local farmers markets, and if you go 30 minutes before closing, while you’ll have less of a selection, vendors tend to discount some or all items instead of hauling them back to the farm.
Shop on a full stomach. The old adage still rings true. Never go to a grocery store when you’re hungry; it causes you to overspend. Eat a meal or snack before you shop so you’re not focused on how hungry you are.
Source: https://www.myplate.gov/