In today’s rather unsure and strained economy, many families are having trouble making ends meet at the end of the month. Because of this, they are looking for ways to save money wherever possible, including on the items that are necessities for living. One of the areas that you can see substantial savings in is your grocery bill. Even as grocery prices go up, you can still keep your bill low if you follow some simple tips that I am going to share here with you.
*Buy in bulk
There are many items that you can buy in bulk for a much lower per unit price than buying in the smaller packages. Meats that are purchased in the family packs are regularly less expensive per pound and can be separated and frozen at home into meal-sized portions. There are also dry foods that are pantry staples, such as baking supplies, legumes, grains, and pastas that will keep indefinitely when properly stored. If there is a sale on items like canned goods, stock up!
*Use coupons from various sources
Coupons are great money savers as long as you are careful not to purchase things that you normally wouldn’t just because you have the coupon. For example, if you normally wouldn’t buy Twinkies, but you do if you have the coupon, you are still not really saving because these are high priced to start with and they are not essentials in the least. Coupons can be found in newspapers, magazines, and store circulars, but some of the best are found at online sites such as www.coupons.com.
*Shop at outlet stores
Grocery outlets, whether they are general or for particular companies, are known for having substantially lower prices, so these are great places to go for your first stop on shopping day.
*Don’t shop hungry
People who shop when they are hungry are more likely to buy “easy” foods that can be prepared quickly, but they are also sold at premium prices. Try to shop shortly after a healthy meal when possible and you will be less likely to fill your cart with convenience foods.
*Shop the outer edges of the store
The outer edges of the store are where you will find what you actually need, such as meats, produce, and dairy products. The inner aisles are filled with processed foods that will have a price tag accounting for ease and convenience. Not only will you save money by avoiding these areas, but you will also see your health improve.
*Make a list
Before you head off to the grocery store, make a list of the items that you are going for and stick to it. As you prepare your list, take a look at what you already have. If there are items that are in jeopardy of expiring, think of how you can use them up and add to your list anything you need to purchase to prepare those meals. Throwing away less food is definitely a money saver!
Most people are looking for ways to keep as much of their hard-earned money in their pockets as possible today. Following these tips can help you to see substantial savings on your grocery bill.