You’ve probably been double-checking the prices of items every time you get ready to check out the grocery store. Did you know that we’ve had one of the largest spikes in consumer prices since the early 1980s? With this information in mind, it’s important to know how to become a smart shopper without breaking the bank. Here are a few easy tips you can follow if you want to make your grocery store trip the most productive.
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Have A Plan In Place
Many people are spending too much on groceries because they go to the store without a list. As a result, the likelihood of buying items they don’t need increases. It’s important to have a plan before you go grocery shopping. This means knowing what you need and sticking to your list. If you get to the store and that item is too expensive, you could consider an alternative or just eliminate it altogether.
The same concept applies with preparing your meal for dinner for the entire week. If you make a list of the ingredients you need, you can save yourself both time and money. Not to mention, you’ll be less likely to order take-out or eat out because you already have a meal plan in place.
Use Coupons and Apps
It does take a little more effort to find good coupons, but it’s worth it when you see how much you’re saving at the register. To make things easier, try signing up for a coupon website or downloading a coupon app. This will allow you to have digital access to coupons that can be used at various stores. Just make sure you’re only using coupons for items that are already on your list.
Plenty of apps are available that earn users cash back on groceries. While you’re not technically spending less, it’s still money in your pocket that can be used elsewhere. Just remember to read the terms and conditions before signing up for any of these programs.
Buy In Bulk If Possible
If you know that you either use or consume certain items that can be stored efficiently, it may be beneficial for you to buy them in bulk. This is especially true if the item is currently on sale. Double-check that you have enough space to store everything and that the items won’t go bad before you can consume them all. For example, if you have an extra freezer in your garage, it could serve as a great spot to put meat that’s on sale. You could also buy non-perishable items in bulk and store them in your basement or attic.
Conclusion
With a little bit of effort, you can save yourself a lot of money at the grocery store. By following these simple tips, you can be a smart shopper without spending too much money. Even if inflation makes things a little harder, there’s always a way to save some extra cash.