Hi BFF’s,
Grocery shopping can be EXPENSIVE. It’s easy to go in for a few things and come out with a cart full of items you really did not need. I know I’ve done it plenty of times. The purpose of me going grocery shopping is to save money from eating out. But, if I’m not being a responsible grocery shopper, it defeats the purpose.
Some days grocery shopping can be a job within itself requiring you to have an art and science approach. I’m sure this is a skill I should be able to put somewhere on my resume. If you feel you’re spending too much on groceries, you’re not the only one.
Here are 10 ways to help you save while grocery shopping.
1- Create a weekly/biweekly menu –
Food wasting is something I have been guilty of. I’d shop like I’m feeding a football team and half of it goes to waste. Now, I shop by the week and according to the meal plans, we’ve identified.
2- Check your pantry, cabinets, and refrigerator before going shopping –
See what you have and what you need. Toss out the old. If you live with someone like my husband, he cleans the refrigerator out every weekend and is ready to toss everything out. Communicate with the tosser (aka bae) and let them know what needs to stay and what can go, so you’re not wasting money.
On the flip side, sometimes I forget what’s in there and the fact he cleans it weekly he’ll ask, and I can incorporate the item into next week’s meal.
3- Create a list, and shop with it –
I used to wander around the store and pick things up. I’d get home and realize I spent $60-$80 and I still can’t make a complete meal. Don’t buy anything that is not on the list. Have discipline.
Would you believe something so simple as creating a list and sticking to it can save you thousands, yes thousands of dollars on groceries each year? Real Talk!
4- Pay attention to sales and create your meals around them –
Don’t buy a bunch of something just because it’s on sale. That’s a sure way to waste money. If you can freeze it cool, just make sure you use it before it gets freezer burn.
5- Buy in-season produce or buy them frozen
I know my granny is rolling her eyes at me from heaven as I mentioned frozen. She preferred fresh. I don’t blame her. However, I’m cool with some things being frozen. I like smoothies in the morning, my frozen strawberries last longer than fresh. Plus, mangos and papayas aren’t in season all year long, frozen will suffice.
6- Don’t buy toiletries at supermarkets –
While it may be convenient, they are also more expensive.
7- Don’t shop with your children –
Leave your kiddies at home as often as possible. They are normally the culprit of extra spending. For some, it might not be easy for you to say no to that cute face.
8- Use a smaller cart or basket –
If you are only going in for a few items, use a smaller cart or a basket. The times I go shopping for one- or two-nights meals, I don’t get a cart I only buy what I can fit in my arms.
9- Sale Days –
Figure out the sale days for your local supermarkets and buy items on those days.
10- Don’t go to the store HUNGRY!
Many of us go shopping right after work which is when we are typically hungry. Shop on a full stomach not empty.
Ok friends! Now you have the tools to help you save money while grocery shopping.
Have a great week. Don’t forget to like, share and follow us on IG @_CompletelyUnbothered
