Save Money on Groceries
Are you looking for ways to save money on groceries? A lot of people are looking for ways to save money when it comes to their shopping budget. Grocery bills can add up quickly. It only makes sense to look for ways to save money on groceries. There are many ways to save money on groceries.
One of the easiest ways to save money on groceries is to simply change your shopping habits. You can save up to 50% or more on your grocery bill just by simply changing your shopping routine. Whether you go to a big box store, discount store, warehouse clubs, or large-scale grocery store, there are ways to save money on groceries if you change your routine.
Grocery store loyalty cards – These cards from big name grocery store chains such as Walmart, Target, Safeway and Costco allow you to save money on select foods and have points that you can use to buy other things at the supermarket. These types of programs are great for frugal living, because you can save money on groceries and shop at the same place. Sometimes membership cards for large chain supermarket chains do offer free food coupons which can be redeemed for merchandise at the grocery store. If the membership card has an expiration date, however, it is best to keep your card until the expiration date to maximize your savings.
Grocery coupons – A wealth of resources exists on the internet to help you save money on groceries. Some of these tips to save money on groceries include buying produce at farmers’ markets and participating in buying clubs where they offer grocery coupons. Another way to save money on groceries is to combine coupons with discount coupons from other retailers. Participating in a group shopping program from a company such as Wal-Mart or Target can also save money on household items and save time.
Grocery store brands that are cheaper than others – Most consumers spend an inordinate amount of money on premium brand name groceries. Often these brand name groceries are much more expensive than the produce and meats found in the produce section of the grocery store. Although specialty meats and produce are usually cheaper than the brands found in the produce section, it does not mean that they are cheaper. In fact many consumers who save money on groceries find that they are spending more on higher end brands because they are often higher in sugar, salt and preservatives. Instead, focus on the lower cost brands in the produce section and use those as a base to increase the amount of meats and vegetables you purchase from the produce aisle.
Pantry staples and bulk items – Even if you live in a small apartment or have a very limited budget, you can still take steps to save money on groceries by investing in bulk items that you will use more often. For example, instead of purchasing canned goods and prepackaged foods, focus on buying bulk items such as yogurt, cereal and beans. These grocery store staples are much cheaper and do not require the shelf life of canned goods and prepackaged foods. In addition, bulk items are far easier to find when you are in a grocery store as opposed to driving around or rummaging through the house.
Store coupons and discounts – There are several different ways to save money on groceries including utilizing store coupons and participating in food-of-the-month clubs. Each of these tips requires that you first find a grocery store that offers a specific food that you will be able to use every day. Some examples of food products that you can save money on include fresh fruits and vegetables, deli meat, fish, poultry and dairy. Once you find a store that sells these specific foods then simply look for the coupons and discount cards associated with them to use for your shopping.
Grocery budgets can get out of control if you allow yourself to shop without a set budget. One of the best ways to keep your grocery budget under control is to set weekly and monthly goals. Instead of buying one item for every week, set yourself up to purchase five or six items for each week. This way you will have a set grocery budget that you can monitor and follow that will help you save money on groceries over time.
