If you know me, you know that my grocery budget is one area that I sometimes struggle with when it comes to sticking to the budget or saving money.
So, I have put together a strategy that helps me save money and be mindful of my grocery bill, and I’m going to be sharing those things that I do with you today.
My Grocery Shopping Tips
Here are the things that I try to do to save money on my grocery bill:
- Plan My Meals
The first thing I do is plan my meals. This involves reviewing my pantry and basically, I look at what I want to cook for that week before I go grocery shopping.
This can be very helpful, especially when it comes to sticking to your budget, because when you know specifically what you want to buy, you’re able to easily craft a list and you can minimize overspending on your budget.
- Set a Budget
The second thing I do is set a budget. I determine exactly how much I want to spend that week on groceries, given the things that I want to buy. Knowing that my grocery budget is an area that I struggle with, I try to give myself room for error within my budget.
- Use a List
The next thing I do is go to the grocery store with a list on my phone. I always have a list, either on my phone or on a piece of paper. Don’t underestimate this; having a list helps you stay focused and it works, especially when it comes to sticking to your budget.
- Avoid Distractions
There are times when I do not have a list because I need to get something real quick. When I know I’m going to the grocery store in a hurry or last minute, and I have to pick up something, what I do is I never take a cart. I will either take a hand basket or nothing at all.
- Use Store Apps
Using the store app is very helpful to me when it comes to saving money on groceries. So many grocery stores have apps, and in these apps, you can find coupons or offers that can help you save money on the things that you plan to buy.
- Compare Store Brand with Brand Name
I also like to compare store brand with brand name. Sometimes I buy the brand name because that is what I like, but sometimes depending on what the item is, I may go for the store brand.
- Avoid Browsing
Another trick I play on myself in the grocery store to help me not waste time is to have other plans after grocery shopping. Sometimes when I have a list, I have a fixed budget, if I have a lot of time, I like to browse the aisles of the grocery store.
- Don’t Take Kids
I also try not to take my kids with me to the grocery store. Sometimes I will take them as part of teaching them budgeting and planning and sticking to the list.
- Buy Groceries Online
Finally, buying groceries online is something that works for me really well. I find that when I shop online, I always stick to my budget.
Conclusion
Those are my few tips on how I save money at the grocery store. What do you do to save money with your grocery shopping and to stick to your grocery budget? I would love to know, so leave a comment below.
