We could all use a little extra money every month, right? With the money you will save using these tips about how to save money on groceries, you can take a vacation, build a nest egg, or buy a new car! You’ll have extra each month to do with whatever you please.
Here are a few tips and tricks on how to save money on groceries every month, without clipping coupons, using discount cards or shopping all around town.
1. Shop at the Same Time Every Month.
If you have a set schedule of when you will be grocery shopping, you will inevitably save money when you go. You won’t be tempted to go pick up ‘a few things’ and end up spending $75 or $100 or more.
2. Make a List and Remember to Take It With You!
I’m sure you’ve heard it before and that’s because it’s true! If you shop with a list and stick to your list, you will spend less while you are at the store. Make sure you do a thorough check of what you need when you make your list, so you don’t forget something. And then stick to your list!
3. Meal Plan.
Meal planning has many benefits, one of which is saving you money. If you know what you are going to cook, then you know what you’ll need to buy at the store. It will also give you more time to concentrate on other things rather than worrying about what to make for dinner tonight.
4. Beware of Sales.
Often stores like to offer ‘great savings’ on products. Try not to fall into these traps! While some sales can save you money, remember to stick to your list. If you are required to buy numerous items in order to get the discount, you may not actually be saving money, but spending money on things you don’t really need instead. Likewise, if the sale is on something that is not on your list, you have to resist the temptation! Don’t get suckered in to buying more just to save a few dollars on a few things.
5. Skip the Displays.
Stores want you to buy stuff, obviously, and spend money. This is how they make their money. In order to do this, they have to make products look good. One way of doing this is to put products on display. Displays work well for the store, because they make the products look enticing. They are a problem to the shopper, though, because displays can give the false impression that the products are on sale. So, buyer beware!
Initially it may be hard to get into these habits, but once you get into the routine, you’ll find you have more time on your hands and a little more money in your pocket.