If you are a frequent grocery shopper, you are probably aware of the constant rise in food prices. Since we all need to eat, there are other options than skipping grocery shopping. Instead, play the grocery game by developing a strategy to save as much as possible.
Saving money involves more than just clipping coupons. It requires hard work and planning. Start by making a list and sticking to it. Check what you already have at home to avoid buying duplicates that might go to waste.
If you can, shop alone. Extra helpers, whether kids or a spouse, can add unnecessary items to your cart, straying from your well-thought-out list.
Do not shop on an empty stomach. When you are hungry, everything looks appealing, and you are likelier to deviate from your list. Consider having a small snack before shopping to curb any ravenous appetite.
Compare unit prices and opt for larger sizes if they cost less per ounce or pound. You can always divide larger packages into smaller portions at home. Remember, higher-priced items are usually placed at eye level, so look up or down for more affordable options. Also, the more expensive items are often found on high-traffic aisles, so explore less busy areas.
Do your slicing and dicing. Pre-packaged meats and cheeses are convenient but only sometimes worth the extra cost. Bulk cheese is cheaper and considered healthier. Buying a whole chicken is much more economical. You can cut it into parts and freeze what you do not need immediately. Less tender cuts of meat are cheaper and can be just as delicious if prepared correctly.
The same principle applies to cereal. Single-serving packages cost more, so buy larger boxes. Hot cereals usually cost less per serving than ready-to-eat cereals. Baking from scratch also saves money. Ready mixes for cakes and cookies are more expensive, so doing more work yourself can lead to significant savings. Even fancy-cut pasta adds to your grocery bill compared to plain ones.
Look for markdown areas. You might find fresh meat or vegetables nearing expiration, but if you plan to cook them soon, that is no problem.
Always check your receipt for errors. While stores do not intentionally do this, mistakes happen frequently. Items can be entered incorrectly into the computer scanner, or the checker might rush and enter the wrong quantity. Check for errors as soon as you can, and do not hesitate to get them corrected. Most stores will apologize and give you a cheerful refund.
Plan a shopping day and avoid unnecessary trips. Keep your recipes simple and shop when you are in a good mood. Angry shoppers tend to make impulse purchases. Shop early to avoid frantic crowds. Some people find grocery shopping therapeutic, especially when anticipating the delicious and healthy meals they will prepare for themselves and their families.