Having the ability to save on food cost, especially for larger families, can be a huge boost to the bank account. The grocery list for each week can tally up to be quite expensive, that’s no secret. But, the secrets of saving do lie in some various and uncovered spaces.
Instead of getting even more creative with what you’ve got in the pantry, fill it up with all of the right stuff, and do it without shredding your wallet. Below, we’ve compiled 10 easy ways to cut down on the cost of groceries and keep the spending under lock and key for the essentials.
Budget, plan, coupon, and more! Take notes on the lifehacks we’ve provided and use them to start saving on your next trip to the market.
10 Lifehacks That Cut The Cost of Groceries
Use The Coupons
There are so many ways to find coupons, it’s just silly not to utilize the option. In reality, there’s so much accessibility to coupons – whether it be the Internet or newspapers, you shouldn’t be buying anything at its full price.
Check manufacturer’s coupons online, specific store coupons, as well as sites like Coupons.com and downloaded apps, to find all kinds of great deals.
Download the Savings Apps
As we mentioned previously, this is another spot you can find coupons but also another nook you can save money with. If you love Target, make sure you have the app because the “Cartwheel” section can save you a ton and provide extra savings on top of other sales and coupons.
There are other applications to look at as well. Check out Ibotta, you can turn around and gather enough points that translate into gift cards on future purchases.
Pay With Cash
Purposefully leave your credit or debit card at home. This will keep your necessities at the top of the list and your impulse buying at a very reduced minimum. The cash you have is all you’ll be able to purchase the goods with and you won’t be overspending or overdoing – it’s a wonderful way to break bad habits and stay on task!
Always Make a List (and Stick to it!)
This is essential and easy to do. Before you go shopping, make a list of all the necessities you need and plan your meals out accordingly. This list will keep your must-haves in check.
You won’t be buying ingredients you already have or don’t necessarily need to make family dinners happen for the next week. Take stock of your kitchen before you leave and utilize perishable items that you already have to make the next batch of dishes.
Don’t Go Hungry
It’s another great rule to follow. When we grocery shop while we’re hungry, we tend to buy more because – well – everything looks and sounds so good! Instead, go after a meal. Again, this keeps the impulse buying at a minimum and will keep you focused on what you actually need to get you through the week.
Bulk is Better
Whether it’s during a sale or just because it’s offered, buying in bulk helps save money (especially for larger families)! For example, buy one get one frees are the perfect way to stock up and save money.
Think Vegetarian
Meat is expensive so think about incorporating more vegetarian options into the weekly menu. Pots of soup and crockpot veggie-centric dishes will feed the family – satisfyingly – while saving you a bundle at the bottom line.
Try Store Brands
Don’t be scared to buy the store or generic brand of an item. Most of the time, it’s only a packaging difference that you’re paying for. Compare the ingredients and then decide which is the best way to go. But in most cases, like toilet paper and similar products – run with the generic! You’ll be getting the same, functioning item but at less cost.
Cheat Those “Specials”
Just because it says “2 for $5” doesn’t mean you have to buy two to get the deal. Instead, just buy one and save that way. It’ll still ring up for $2.50! Cheating the specials helps you utilize the sale savings without buying too much of what you don’t readily need.
Shop The Perimeter
Shopping around the store instead of through every aisle will provide you with healthy, good necessities and have you steering clear of the junk in the middle that will raise the bill. The processed food traps aren’t needed but they will fill up your cart and receipt quickly.
