Grocery Store Shopping Tips

Here are some tips to help you save money when shopping at the grocery store.

If you don’t plan out your family meals, you are more likely to run to the store every few days, if not daily, to pick up items for dinner. The more you enter the store, the more likely you will add extra items to your shopping cart that you don’t need. And you’ll pay full price for the items rather than picking them up when they are on sale

You’ll be more productive at the store if your thoughts are organized and written on a grocery list. You will also be less likely to pick up extra items on a whim.

You have probably heard this many times, but it’s true. If you shop hungry, you’ll end up with extra items in your cart because it looks good. This will definitely use up your grocery budget more quickly.

Take a few minutes a week to print, clip, and organize coupons. If you combine coupons with store sales, you will save a lot of money each week.

Use a calculator to keep a running tab of all the items in your cart so you don’t overspend on your budget. Also, use the calculator to compare unit costs to see which items are cheaper. You’ll often find that it is cheaper to buy two smaller packages with coupons than one slightly larger one.

6. Look high and low for deals Look at the highest and lowest shelves in the grocery store to find the best deals. The worst deals are located at eye level.

7. Search for deals at the end of aisles
Grocery stores place the best deals at the end of aisles to draw shoppers’ attention up the aisle. This will save you time if you don’t have to walk the length of an aisle. And it will save you money because you are less likely to place an extra item in your shopping cart.

8. Don’t be brand loyal
To save money on groceries, you need to be willing to try new items. Use coupons to buy a different brand for half price. Also, check the store brands because sometimes they are less expensive if you don’t have a coupon.

9. Only buy the minimum amount you need
Many people buy more than they really need to buy because of the way the store advertises its sales. For instance, if the store states a “2 for $4” sale you can either buy one for $2, or two for $4. You don’t need to buy two items. Make sure to read the fine print since some specials do require a certain quantity. If it’s a really good deal, then stock up, but don’t do it because the signage persuades you.

10. Watch the scanner
Keep an eye on the scanner at checkout to make sure the items you are buying and the coupons you use are ringing up correctly. There have been many instances where I’ve saved money because I caught when an item was rung up wrong or a coupon wasn’t applied to my purchases.