10 Great Tips for Saving Money at the Grocery Store

Over the past few years, I’ve struggled to find a way to save money at the grocery store. It seemed like every time I went in, I ended up spending $100-150 (just for two people- for one week!). Eventually, I came up with this list of 10 “rules” for grocery shopping. I hope they help you as much as they have helped me!

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Think Outside the Box: Buy Off Brand

There is a myth about buying off brand products: “You sacrifice quality for price.” I’ll admit, sometimes that’s true. For instance, I never buy off brand canned fruit  (I learned that one the hard way). But off brand cereal? My corn flakes taste the same from the bag as they do out of the more expensive, brand name box.

Shop High and Low

You can often find the best deals at the very top or very bottom of the aisles. Why? That’s where the stores keep those off brands, or cheaper items. They would rather that you spent more on all those products that are at eye level. And it works. So next time you’re at the grocery store, check out the top and bottom shelves. You never know what deals you’ll find!

Bigger is Better: Buy in Bulk

People who shop at places like Sam’s Club have the right idea. When you buy in bulk, you usually get a better price per part that when you buy the more conveniently packaged sizes. The catch? Make sure that what you buy won’t go bad before you can use it- and that you have room for it!

Planning is Key: Take a List

I know it seems like common sense, but I must confess there were many times when I went to the grocery store with only my memory and a vague idea of what I wanted in my head. The fact is, when you spend the time to make a list, and take it with you, you are less likely to deviate from that list and in so doing, spend a bundle more.

Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time

This tip goes along with make a list- if you know what you need, down to the ingredients, you’ll be less likely to wander down the aisles aimlessly staring at all the yummy foods. This way you can just zip up and down the aisles you need, and be on your way (a great time saver, too!).