If you want to save money at the grocery store there are the big changes you can make to how you shop. You can save money by using sale circulars, shopping from a stockpile, clipping coupons, and so on: those I cover in Frugal 101. But there are small changes that can deliver powerful results too. You can still afford many of your favorite foods and save money, just shop smartly. Here are some more ways to save when you shop:
Work off a List
I think most of us know this but it can’t be understated that using a list to shop is a huge way to keep your grocery spending under control. The grocery displays are a lot less enticing if we know that we’re sticking to what we wrote down. If I have “free money” leftover from my planned grocery budget then I can splurge on an item without any guilt.
Consider Warehouses or places like Aldi for Staples
I’m a Costco member and I’m still debating whether I think my membership is worth the cost. Many items can be found for a better price at a grocery store if I wait for a coupon and a sale. However, I’ve noticed that certain things like dairy and baking items are consistently much cheaper per ounce at Costco. Aldi is the same way for those categories. I just have to be disciplined to not go bonkers in Costco.
Make a Pricebook. No, really. Even if it’s in your head, on paper, or in an elaborate database. My friends want to know how I know that something is a steal. The only reason I know is because I track the prices. Many goods advertised on sale each week are highlighted because of manufacturer promotions, not necessarily because the sale price is truly a great deal. Items go through price cycles. Learn to know a deal and you’ll shop smarter.
Look for unadvertised sales.
Most stores have areas where they’ll have clearance items. This holds true for everything from plastic bags to meat. Our local Fareway store often puts meat on clearance on Saturday nights. I love that!
Don’t be fooled. Promotions like “5 for $5″ rarely require you to actually buy 5 of an item. Buy only what you think you’d actually use and evaluate the value of the sale regardless of the way it is promoted.
Save time. Find out if the stores you use will accept store coupons from competitors. Many will and this can save you time by not having to shop at so many stores.
Would you be willing to share part/all of your pricebook? I’ve found that is the hardest part for me in my frugal quest.
I’m the work outside the home mom of a 3 year old & 8 1/2 month old triplets. My time at the store (even when well planned) is very limited & adding pricing to the agenda is very challenging. BTW, love, love, love your blog!
Shannon´s last blog ..Tigger was a Texter, but I’m just not a Tweeter
Hey there! This is the first time I’ve commented but I’ve been a subscriber for awhile — I love your blog and the fact that you are based in the DSM area and I have passed your name on to several of my friends as well!
I was actually wondering the same thing Shannon was. Would you be willing to share your pricebook?
Amy @ My Front Porch´s last blog ..Isn’t It Amazing…
May I add a couple more tips? I think I heard you say “yes”
Get out of the store quickly … many studies prove that the longer you stay in a store the more you buy. Go in with a thorough list, orgaized according to department or by the order you plan to move through the store.
Use cash. Yes, the green foldie stuff. Don’t give yourself the opportunity to over-spend your budget by using a debit or credit card. Using cash is the single biggest item that has reduced my grocery spending … more than sales, coupons, etc.
Great tips thanks LC!
Hi Amy, I’d be happy to share what I’ve gathered so far – I’ll start working on it. : )