20 simple ways to save when grocery shopping
Grocery shopping is an unavoidable part of life, and even though supermarkets like to make us think prices are down, down, filling our trolley is as expensive as ever.
The good news is there are bargains to be had, if you know where to look.
Huffington Post has shared a list containing 20 of the best ways to save on groceries at a supermarket. From old fashioned price matching to understanding supermarket sales tactics, these tricks will ensure you’ve got plenty of spare change after your shop.
1. Avoid the inner aisles
Supermarket strategically place essentials on opposite ends of the store, forcing shoppers to pass though inner aisle and be tempted by discretionary purchases.
2. Don’t be afraid to use coupons
Plenty of websites offer coupons to help you save on general expenses, and if you combine these with sales at your store you can make some big savings.
3. Avoid buying certain toiletries
While picking these items up at the supermarket might be the easy option, you generally have to pay the price for convenience. Pick these items up at the pharmacy.
4. Avoid brand names
While we’re probably loyal to a few of our favourite products, in many instances generic brand products are exactly the same as the alternative, at a better price.
5. Look around
Supermarkets tend to place more expensive items at eye level as a bit of a sales trick, so don’t be afraid to look around and seek out the less expensive options.
6. Inquire about rain checks
When a commonly-used item like olive oil goes on sale it sells out quickly. If you’ve missed it by not a lot, inquire about getting an extension on sold-out sale items.
7. Consider dried beans
Many people opt for canned beans because they don’t have time to cook, but a pot of beans is easy to make and the taste really is superior at the end of the day.
8. Don’t go to the store hungry
Research has shown that if you go to the supermarket hungry you’re more likely to purchase more than you need. So try to avoid shopping on an empty stomach.
9. Avoid premade food
They might look good and represent real convenience, but premade food comes at a significant premium and can be made for a fraction of the price at your home.
10. Eat with the seasons
Produce tastes better if you eat with the seasons, and you’ll save money. Out-of-season produce has to travel further, and this is reflected in the price.
11. Don’t splurge on spices
Trying new flavours and tastes is always a good idea, but it’s not a good idea to buy these items at the supermarket. Going to an international market is cheaper.
12. Avoid bottled water
When you consider how much you pay for a refillable container and water from your tap compared to the price of bottled water over a month it just doesn’t make sense.
13. Make a grocery list
Even if you’ve got a good memory, having a laid out grocery list gives you a plan of attack when entering the supermarket and helps you figure out what you need.
14. Keep the grandchildren at home
It’s always nice to spend time with your grandchildren, but in the supermarket they can tempt you into buying foods you really don’t need and it can be tough to say no.
15. Avoid pre-washed salad
Pre-washed, pre-prepared salad in undoubtedly convenient, but this convenience comes at a premium. And if you DIY you really won’t notice the difference.
16. Steer clear of pre-cut fruit
In much the same vein, you really want to avoid pre-cut fruit salad. This is a job that you can really easily do yourself at home and you shouldn’t be paying extra.
17. Try to avoid herbs
If you find yourself use it herbs in your cooking a lot this can set you back a small fortune. Instead, invest in a small herb garden and you’ll save heaps over time.
18. Grate your own cheese
As with anything pre-prepared, grated cheese costs you extra just for the convenience, so sometimes it makes sense to grit your teeth and just DIY.
19. Avoid spice mixes
Spice mixes can transform your meals but set you back a lot of money. And often you can make a similar sort of dish with a mix of seasonings already on hand.
20. Constantly compare
Keep your eyes out for bargains at all time and your ear to the ground. Knowing where that next big deal is can end up saving you quite a lot of money over time.
What do you think of our list? Are there any tips you’ll apply to your shopping? Do you have anything you think we should add to it?
Let us know in the comments.
Related links:
How to pick the quickest line at your supermarket
7 everyday foods you won’t believe are high in sugar
10 foods you must stop buying at the supermarket