Grocery bills are higher than ever, even though liberals will tell you that the economy is booming. If you’ve grown accustomed to loading your grocery cart the way that you did back in 2019 (ahh, remember the Trump days of the economy?), you’ve probably experienced some sticker shock.
The reality is that groceries don’t have to be expensive. There are a few hacks that can keep quite a bit of money in your bank account.
#1: Plan Out Your Meals
Write out what you’re going to cook for each day of the week. Knowing what you’re going to make will allow you to buy only the ingredients you need. If you’re willing to be a bit creative, some of those ingredients can be used on two or three days within the same week.
#2: Shop on Your Own
When you shop alone, it allows you to focus on the list and only the list. The moment you bring your kids (or your constantly eating partner), you’ll end up with a lot more in the cart – and that’s the stuff you most certainly can’t afford.
#3: Explore the Sales Circulars
Take a look at the sales circulars of a few stores near you. When there’s a great sale on shelf-stable items like rice, pasta, and sauce, buy more of it.
#4: Avoid Prepared Items
Whenever you buy prepared salads, guacamole, salsa, or anything else, you could pay triple (or quadruple) for the convenience. You’re better off buying the ingredients and making them on your own. It may take 15 more minutes out of your day, but it can offer substantial savings.
#5: Use Coupons and Apps
There are a variety of stores that use apps to download deals, such as Publix and Kroger. Look for the coupons before you go so that you can download them and be ready at the checkout. There are also apps like Ibotta that will give you money back for buying certain items. Of course, it’s also a good idea to look for the printed coupons whenever you can find them, too.
Ultimately, if there are any ways to change things up at the grocery store, isn’t it worth it? Don’t be afraid to shop the deals. Change up what you make for dinner, too. Finding a thrifty recipe that’s thrown together in the crockpot could save you $10 or more from what you typically serve the family.
