If there is one thing that it is certain it is that the prices of food seem to be constantly rising and it is becoming increasingly expensive each visit to the grocery store. So what are some ideas as to how to cut costs at the grocery store?
After all everyone has to eat so it is essential that we learn some strategies to cut costs at the grocery store. It is possible to save money if you develop a strategy.
But, it’s more than clipping coupons. It takes hard work and planning.
Making a List
For years I used to set out with the good intentions of doing a list but really never did and would just browse around the store and buy what caught my eye. I am now an avid list maker and realize that this saves me a small fortune each week. I have cut down so much what food I throw out. It also has the added benefit of making me much more efficient about meal planning. No more arriving back at home after driving the kids around and wondering what on earth I am going to make for dinner!
So the first rule is make a list and stick to it. Write things down as you run out, and check what you already have. Really learn to limit those impulse buys and you will save.
Alone Time
I much prefer shopping by myself. It isn’t just the distraction of the kids wanting to add to the shopping cart but my husband does this as well! It really helps in sticking to the list if you are alone.
Only Shop When You Are Not Hungry
This one is true – you buy more on impulse if you are hungry. Your ability to think rationally is reduced and you will probably be much more tempted to not stick to the list.
Confusing Unit Pricing
Grocery stores are not in the business of helping you to save money. They spend a lot of time and money tempting you to buy! One element of the confusing is the different unit pricing. But stores do have to show the unit price of each item on the shelf labels (it’s usually tiny but it will be there). Compare the unit price and buy a larger size if it’s less per ounce or per pound – but only on items that you know you will use in time. So don’t buy a huge stock of something only to find out that you haven’t used it by the sell by date.
Grocery stores will usually put higher priced items are at eye level so look up or down for lower priced foods. More expensive items are also usually on the high traffic aisles.
Thinking ahead and buying larger amounts and then freezing can work out well. Many items can be frozen and the shelf life extended if you do not want to eat them straight away.
Bulk cereal is usually a lot cheaper, as are the generic rather than big label brands. If you have a store with the bulk item bins this can also save you quite a bit.
Cook From Scratch
Prepared foods will usually cost you more and not be as healthy as the make from scratch you can cook at home. If you are not used to cooking give it a try. Just learn some basic recipes and you may be surprised at how easy it is to switch to cooking your own.
Look For Bargains
Always look for the bargains in the mark down areas. You might find items which are just about to go out of date but if you plan ahead and eat them quickly this will not be a problem.
Check You Receipt
Always check your receipt for errors. Mistakes happen frequently. You will be surprised how often once you start checking! It could be entered incorrectly on the computer scanner or the checker could be rushed and enter the wrong amount purchased. Be sure to politely point the error out and you will almost certainly get a refund.
Buy Online
Often you can find great prices online for every day items which you would buy at the grocery store. Using Subscribe and Save on Amazon is also a great way to save and you get free shipping too.
It is possible to cut costs at the grocery store. Just use a little advanced planning and you will soon notice the difference.
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