Most people are looking for ways to save money. Although clipping coupons is one way to save on groceries, not everyone has the energy or time required to do it. The following are ways to save money on groceries without using coupons.
*Store loyalty cards
One of the best ways to save money on groceries is by using a store loyalty card. Stores like Winn Dixie offer discount cards. Usually, all it takes is a few minutes to fill out for the card, and then the saving can begin. These cards allow the store to trace your purchases and then they offer you discounts according to your shopping history.
*Sale circulars
Always check the sale circulars. The sales papers contain the list of items that are on sale. Be sure to get the circulars for more than one store and compare the prices. The same items may be at a lower price at a different store.
*Price matching
Some stores like Wal-Mart offer price matching. They allow shoppers to get the same item for the same price that it is on sale at the competing store. This can make shopping a little easier if one doesn’t want to shop at multiple stores.
*Price checking
Do a price check on items that are a regular staple for the home like dish detergent, washing powder, and select can goods. The price on these items should be check for at least two to three weeks. Stores will often list items on a sale circular that are actually regular price. By doing a price check for several weeks on these items, you can identify if the item on sale is actually a bargain.
*Buying in bulk
When a nonperishable items that your family uses regularly go on sale, buy them in bulk. Purchase enough to last for several months. Store sales go in three to six month cycles. If you buy the item in bulk, you will not have to purchase it again until it goes back on sell. Of course, fruits and vegetables are perishable, so only buy what you can use within a few days.
*Having a plan
Be sure that you have a plan when you go into the store. Look through your sales circulars and make a list of the items to be purchase. Check your pantry and see what items you need. Making a menu for the coming week will also help you know what you will need to purchase. Have a detailed list ready and a budget set before you hit the store. This will save you both time and money.
*Shopping alone
If at all possible, shop alone. Bring children along will only cause you to make unnecessary purchase. Although have a friend along to talk to can be great, it can also be distracting. Before you know it, you will have picked up items that were not on the list or spend more time shopping than you should. Time is money and the goal is to save money.
*Shop around
Shopping at more than one store has its advantages. Different stores can have different staple items on sale. By shopping at more than one store, you can get several items at a low price. Also, this helps you to identify who has the best deal on a product.
*Watch those receipts
Be sure to check your store receipts. Some receipts have coupons or promotional offers that print out on them . Store receipts may also have surveys on them, and they offer free items as rewards for answering the survey. Checking receipts will also ensure that you are getting an item for the correct price. Mistakes do happen at the checkout.
*Don’t buy what you don’t need
Only buy what you are actually going to use. Don’t buy an item just because it is on sell. This is a waste of money.
Not everyone has time to clip coupons. By being an informed shopper, there are ways to save money on groceries without using coupons.