Budgeting: Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store

Sticking to a budget can be difficult but using the following tips when shopping 

for groceries can help you save money:

1. Check the unit price, which is usually listed on the shelf price tag. This price typically shows how much you’re paying per ounce and can point you to the better deal. Unless you're a math whiz, it's impossible to compare prices and values across different sizes. The unit price makes it easy. (And you may find that sometimes the bigger package is not the best bargain.)

2. Shop store brand items – Sometimes when you combine store sales with coupons you can save even more money than buying store brand items.  But if there is not a sale, and you don’t have coupons, store brand items are usually the way to go. Store brand and name brand items usually taste the same and are even sometimes manufactured by the same facility. Store brands are often 25% less expensive than name brand items.

3. Avoid eye-level products

Supermarkets usually place more expensive items right in front of you. Do a little stretching and bending to find bargains.

4. Stick to your list – This includes making a list or menu plan before you head to the store.  Don’t fall for the grocery store advertising and marketing techniques throughout the store by picking up impulse items, as you will spend more money.  

5. Don’t shop hungry- impulse items increase when you are hungry. DON’T shop hungry!  

6. Buy produce when it’s in season – The prices tend to be better on produce when it’s in season as opposed to off season.  So rotate the fruits and veggies you eat based off the season. Even buying frozen organic vegetables can save you money.

7. Shop without a Cart – If you are only going in for 3 items, opt for the basket instead of the cart.  You’d be amazed at what items you decide not to pick up, simply because it’s one more thing you’d have to carry. Also, whenever possible, shop alone so you aren’t distracted.

8. Skip the prepared or convenience foods – Have you ever priced how much a pineapple is, then walked over and priced the container of already cut up pineapple?  Yes it’s way more.  So skip the pre cut up stuff or the pre-marinated meats and do it yourself at home.

9. Use coupons

While this can save cash, you may still be better off buying the generic version rather than the higher-priced brand. It's work, but if you watch for store coupons as well as the ones in the newspaper, you can do well — and some stores double coupons. Just make sure you only clip coupons for products you actually need.

10. Shop with cash

Some strict budgeters advocate only taking cash to the store so you keep better track of your purchases and reject extras. Using a debit card is another option.