Saving money on groceries is something we all vow to do at one time or another. We make big plans only to find ourselves frustrated when our monthly grocery bill is high, again! Don’t let that discourage you though. There are ways to whittle down your bill without going on a fast or eating mac and cheese all month. I’ve listed a few painless ways to help you start saving money on groceries. Implement these steps little by little and enjoy the savings they will bring.
1. Make a budget. I know that is probably making you cringe but making a budget will enable you to see how much money you actually have to spend on groceries. Basically it comes down to this one fact: If you only have $500 (or whatever your budget is) for food each month , then that is all you have to spend. A budget will let you see where your money needs to go.
2. Switch to cash. Once you’ve made your budget, then take only that amount of cash for spending when you actually go to the store. There is nothing quite like having cash with you to help curb impulse spending. You will find yourself naturally looking for the best deals and prices to stretch your dollars.
3. Make a grocery list using sale ads. You know how much money you have to spend so take a little time and browse your local grocery store sale ad before you go shopping. Most stores send out their sales flyer a day or so in advance and almost all stores have their sale ads online. Try to make as many meals as you can from the items on sale. You’ll find yourself being more creative with your meal ideas and more than likely eating healthier too.
4. Go shopping alone. I always go shopping without the kids. It is so hard to stick to my shopping list with a crying toddler and a hungry 5 year old in tow. I know this is hard to do sometimes, especially if you have children that are preschool age. Have the kids stay with grandma for an hour or swap grocery dates with a friend. Have her watch your children while you go to the store and then return the favor for her the next day or two.
