Groceries are probably one of the easiest things to save on. You are in control of what you put in your shopping basket and take to the check out to pay for, therefore it’s much easier to control how much you spend. Here are some tips if you want to save money on groceries.
Shop at the end of the week when the shop hasn’t been stocked up with fresh produce. This usually means on a Sunday night, though it depends on where you live. If you go to the shop at different times you will be able to see when they offer the most discounts, and that’s when you should head there for your grocery shop.
On sale items can save you a lot of money but only if you actually intended to buy them. You wouldn’t buy a pack of washing powder that’s on sale if the one you normally buy is still cheaper. Things like meat, canned products and packaged goods like toilet paper, detergent, and shampoo you might be able to pick up at discounted prices. Check the use by date before you buy though.
Make a list before you leave the house. Shopping with a list gives you a clear idea of what you need. Don’t stray from it. Be self controlled when it comes to shopping and you’ll be able to save money each week or month on groceries.
Buy fresh at the fresh food market. If there’s a fruit and vegetable market in your town it might be an idea to shop there because the prices on the fresh produce may be cheaper than in the shop. Here, you should also shop with a list. No point in overspending by buying things you wouldn’t actually need.
In season is best. These days pretty much everything is available all year round but the prices do vary. When buy fruit and vegetables make sure you buy the produce that’s in season. It will be cheaper and save you a few dollars each week.
Only take a certain amount of money to the shop. If you’ve been doing the grocery shop for some time you’ll know how much you usually spend. Only take the amount that you think you’ll need and leave the rest of the cash and cards at home. The temptation to buy is gone if you don’t have money with you.
Check out the shelves at the top or bottom, they usually have the cheaper products. The more expensive ones are thrown in at eye level so that people will buy them. Look around and you will find the same product, just with different packaging, for a much lower price.
Buy in bulk if you can. Things like milk, sugar, flour, detergents, toilet rolls, coffee and many others can be bought in bulk. Usually by buying this way you can get great savings. If your family is not big enough to buy in bulk than get together with a friend and buy in bulk together. You’ll halve the produce and the cost and will both get good savings on your groceries.
Use coupons whenever you can. It’s OK to want to save, so don’t be afraid or embarrassed for using coupons. That’s what they are there for.
Cut down your portion sizes when it comes to meal times and you won’t have to buy as much food. Both your wallet and your waistline will thank you for it.
Saving on groceries is easy. Plan your list, limit the amount of money in your wallet, and only buy what you need.