🛒Saving On Weekly Groceries: Cutting The Bill Without Cutting The Quality
Let’s be honest, as a family of six, my kids are constantly rummaging through the pantry. The second I restock…I find myself adding the same items back to my grocery list. It seems never-ending. Grocery shopping can devour your budget if you’re not careful.
Whether you’re feeding a family, or living solo, the weekly grocery bill adds up fast.
But with a few smart habits, you can cut your grocery costs without going hungry. Here are some ways I go about saving money on a weekly basis.
Meal Planning
This can be a game-changer. Take a few minutes each week to plan out your meals. From here, you can make a grocery list based only on what you need so that you can avoid random purchases. Side note: Check out what you already have in your fridge or pantry. The half bag of veggies or leftover chicken breast can be worked into your plan.
Stick To A List
Impulse buying can be a budget killer. Once you’ve made your meal plan and grocery list, commit to it.
If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t go in the cart.
Buy Generic
This can be a HUGE saving. In most cases, the store-brand version of a product is nearly identical to the name-brand. The difference? It costs less. Start with the basics like canned goods, or pasta…then you can make your way over to generic medications.
Use Coupons & Apps
Some of my favorite apps are Rakuten and Fetch, which allow me to get money back in my pocket for purchases I’ve made.
Make sure to also download store apps. Here, you can snag deals and clip digital coupons.
Shop Seasonal Sales
When planning, base your meals around what’s in season. Fruits and veggies that are in season are fresher, tastier, and cheaper.
Be sure to check the store’s weekly ad before heading there so you’re aware of any sales going on as well.
Fill Your Belly Before Your Cart
Shopping when hungry can lead to impulse snacks and convenience foods, adding to your grocery bill. Don’t shop when hungry. Eat before you go…your wallet will thank you.
Buy In Bulk
For pantry staples like rice, pasta, or beans, buying larger quantities can save money in the long run.
However, avoid bulk buys for perishable items unless you plan to freeze them.
Avoid Convenience Items
Pre-washed lettuce, chopped fruit, or grated cheese can be a lifesaver when it comes to time in the kitchen. However, these items come with a markup.
Buy whole produce or block cheese and do the prep yourself. You’ll trade a few minutes of effort for real savings.
Compare Store Prices
Check out prices of your regular items as you shop at different stores. This way, you’ll learn where the deals are. I was recently paying about $9.99 for a pound of salami, until I found myself at another store and saw the price at $2.99 for a pound! That’s $7 in savings for just one item…imagine if you find even more steals!
Track Your Spending
Awareness is powerful. Set a weekly grocery budget and keep at it. Tracking your spending for a few weeks can help you set a realistic limit.
Even trimming $10 per week can add up to over $500 per year.
Saving money at the grocery store isn’t about eating ramen five nights a week. It’s about knowing what you need to make smarter choices. Use these tips and before you know it, you’ll have some extra money in your budget…and a fridge full of food that your family will actually eat!
