A good alternative to wandering the aisles at your local supermarket is to buy your groceries online. While you do have to be mindful of delivery fees and slightly higher prices, online grocery shopping can help manage food costs. There are tricks you can use to keep your grocery budget in check.
Browse Weekly Circulars and Clip Digital Coupons
Many grocery stores have special pages dedicated to savings. Compare prices among different grocery stores to identify the best deals and optimize your savings. There you’ll find weekly circulars, and information about reward programs. Before adding items to your cart, see what deals they have to offer and clip any coupons beneficial to your shopping trip. Be sure to join the store’s email list so you can get exclusive offers delivered right to your inbox.
Create a Shopping List and Stick To It
Creating a shopping list is a crucial step in saving money on groceries. Before you start shopping, take some time to plan out your meals for the week and make a list of the ingredients you need. Sticking to your list can help you avoid impulse buys and stay focused on the items you need. Consider using a grocery list app or a physical notebook to keep track of your list. You can also use your loyalty card info to automatically save coupons to your loyalty account. By sticking to your list, you can save up to 20% on your grocery bill.
Double Check Your Pantry to Avoid Buying Things You Don’t Need
One of the biggest ways people waste money is by buying things they didn’t realize they already have at home. Grocery shopping online saves you money because you have easy access to your fridge and pantry. So, if there’s an item you’re iffy about, you can quickly run to your kitchen to see what’s available. This will prevent you from buying duplicates of items you don’t need. Incorporating meal planning into your routine can also help you avoid unnecessary purchases and stay organized.
Don’t Be Scared to Try Generic Brands
Some people only like to buy the brands constantly advertised on TV. However, when buying groceries, you can save a lot of money by opting for the generic versions of certain items. Often, the quality will be the same, but the price tag will be much smaller. Foods worth buying generic are canned beans, milk, cereal, frozen fruit and vegetables, spices, and condiments.
Compare and Save
It’s not unusual for different stores to charge different prices for the same exact item. The beauty of grocery shopping online is you can comparison shop without wasting gas. To ensure you save the most money, grab your shopping list and compare the prices for multiple stores. Be sure to factor in taxes and delivery fees into your budget.
Joining a wholesale club, such as Costco, can also help you maximize savings through bulk purchases, especially for large families.
Buy Items on Sale and in Bulk
Buying items on sale and in bulk can significantly reduce your grocery costs. Check the weekly sales ads for your local grocery store and plan your meals around the items that are on sale. Consider buying non-perishable items in bulk, such as canned goods, pasta, and rice. You can also use coupons to stock up on items you use regularly. Just be sure to check the prices and calculate the unit cost to ensure you’re getting the best deal. By buying items on sale and in bulk, you can save up to $150 per month.
Avoid Pre-packaged and Processed Items
Pre-packaged and processed items can be convenient, but they often come with a higher price tag. Opt for whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which are not only healthier but also cheaper. Consider buying in bulk and portioning out your own snacks, such as nuts and dried fruit. You can also make your own convenience foods, such as trail mix and energy balls, using ingredients you already have on hand. By avoiding pre-packaged and processed items, you can save up to 50% on your grocery bill.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Technology can be a powerful tool in saving money on groceries. Consider using a grocery list app, such as Flipp or Checkout 51, to help you plan your meals and stay organized. You can also use digital coupons and cashback apps, such as Ibotta and Fetch Rewards, to earn money back on your grocery purchases. Additionally, many grocery stores offer loyalty programs and apps that can help you save money and earn rewards. By using technology to your advantage, you can save up to $20 per week on your grocery bill.
Avoid Delivery Fees With Curbside Pickup
Get the staples you need without entering the store thanks to curbside pickup. Many retailers offer the service for free. Simply place your order online and choose the nearest location when checking out. A store employee will do the shopping for you and notify you when your order is ready. Once at the store, you’ll park in a designated area and your groceries will be loaded into your vehicle.
Pay for Your Items Using a Cash Back Credit Card
Considering how much money you probably spend at the grocery store, we’re sure you’d love to get some of it back. A great way to earn money with every purchase is to use a cash back credit card. When choosing a cash back credit card, it’s important to consider the annual fees, as they can impact your overall savings. Some cards offer a flat percentage while others offer varying amounts based on the category. If you plan to shop with plastic, just be sure to pay your balance on time and in full at the end of each month.
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The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
