Grocery shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. By using some of the following techniques, you’ll be able to cut your spending. Start with the basics, and then evaluate how you shop, why you shop, and when you shop. By assessing your current shopping methods, you may find some areas that can use improvement.
The Basics
1. Don't go shopping when you're hungry.
When you shop hungry, you end up purchasing items you normally wouldn't. It makes the cookie and frozen food aisle look extremely appealing. Don't put yourself in that situation. Go with a full belly so you can focus on your list without the distraction of a rumbling tummy.
2. Make a list and stick to it.
This seems obvious, but by only buying what you need you will save a ton of money. Yes, that orange juice might be on sale, but if it's not on your list – leave it on the shelf. Sticking to your list will save you a lot of money over time.
3. Price-comparison (item to item and store to store)
Some stores have a few things really cheap to pull you in. Then they hike up the price of everything else. If you have one grocery store you're loyal to, that's great – but every once in a while take the opportunity to check out other places to do some serious price comparison.
4. Beware bulk items: look at the price per unit.
Costco is a fantastic store, but if you shop there, you know that it's nearly impossible to leave there without spending over $100. When each item is priced in the $8-$15 range, items add up quickly. Refer to number three above and make sure you are getting the best price per unit.
How You Shop
Shop alone. If this means you need to pawn your kids off on a neighbor or friend for a couple hours – do it. You need to be able to stay calm and stress-free while sticking to the basics above. With a child demanding your attention, it will be a lot harder to even read your list, let alone stick to it. Bargain shopping takes time and patience, and usually children (and spouses) aren't equipped with the patience necessary to get the best deal.
Why You Shop
Why are you going grocery shopping? Is it because you always go on this day or week? Challenge yourself to consume all, yes all, the food in your cupboards before heading to the grocery store. This is a good way to avoid letting foods expire and go to waste.
When You Shop
If you're shopping when it's cart-to-cart, you are shopping at the wrong time. Staying relaxed and stress-free is essential to maintaining your patience (mentioned above). Experiment with different times of shopping and pick a time that seems kind of slow.
So even if you think you are the master-shopper, evaluate your shopping skills and see if there are any areas you can improve on. By making these small changes, you'll start to see how changing how, when, and why you shop can increase the amount of money you save.
For some additional ideas, check out these resources:
18 Ways to Save Money While Grocery Shopping
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