Here are some easy ways to Save Money On Groceries.
In this new normal, most people are looking for ways to spend less money. One of the best places to start is with your groceries. By implementing a few simple steps, you can save some serious money on groceries. Start by involving the whole family in a discussion about ways to save money on food costs in your home. If everyone is onboard and willing to put a little extra time and effort you will be surprised at your savings.
- Agree to curb or at least limit outside purchases of coffee/tea drinks at specialty shops and snacks. Invest in quality insulated mugs and good coffee/tea so you can bring drinks from home. Do the same with snacks; stock up on everyone’s favorites and pack them to go. If your family eats a lot of fast food or delivered meals, cut that habit in half immediately!
- Before you shop for groceries, inventory your pantry and shelves to determine what ingredients you already have on hand. Then, plan meals based on using things you have at home. It’s fun to involve the family in this step. Everyone can design a meal using mostly ingredients you already have on hand. You can also google meals with these “on hand” ingredients or peruse cookbooks for ideas. Planning meals is crucial.
- Embrace coupons and loyalty programs at local grocery stores. Check out the store flyers too. If you don’t belong to a wholesale store like Sam’s Club or Costco, you might want to consider it. Stock up on essential supplies like paper products, pet food, cleaning supplies, snacks, etc. and find a place to store them in your home or garage.
- Always, always make a list before shopping. After you’ve inventoried foods on hand and planned your meals, make a list of needed ingredients. Then, when you shop, stick to that list!
How To Save Money On Groceries
- Buy sale items in excess and store or freeze them. If you don’t have an extra refrigerator or freezer in your garage, buy one. Food items like ground beef, chicken, steaks, pork loins, and bacon are easily frozen for later use.
- Don’t shop hungry! This leads to impulse buying of fatty and sugary snacks and straying from your list. Bring a granola bar from home if you are hungry.
- Shop strategically: most stores arrange aisles so that essential items are on the perimeter and sugary and processed foods are in the center. Avoid going up and down every aisle and being distracted by unnecessary purchases. Again, stick to the list.
- Cut out the use of processed and ready-made foods. Buy fresh ingredients and cook from scratch whenever possible. Resist purchasing packaged fruits and veggies that are already cut up.
- Try implementing “Meatless Mondays” so that at least once a week your meals don’t include meat. Be creative with salads and vegetarian meals.
- Buy store brands whenever possible. They are usually of the same quality and cost much less.
- Cook larger meals and package half of them for leftovers later in the week or pop them in the freezer. Try cooking two large meals for two nights in a row. Then eat leftovers from meal #1 the third night and leftovers from meal #2 the fourth night. Another idea is to utilize leftovers in creative ways like soups and casseroles.
With a few changes in your habits, you can save a bundle of cash on your food costs. When you involve the family, it can be fun too!