This article will cover some easy-to-remember tips to help you save at the grocery store. There are a few creative ways to avoid spending more than you need to, so let’s take a look at what they are.
Make A List
Grocery stores are designed to distract you and get you to buy things that may look good, but you could also do without. Stores intentionally place their most enticing things like produce, pastries, and flowers at the front of the store, so you’re tempted to put them in your cart. But you can get around this system by making a grocery list each time you leave home. Creating a list while you check your fridge and then sticking with it at the grocery store could help you save a sizable amount at checkout.
Shop with a rewards credit card
Rewards Credit Cards won’t save you on groceries right away, but some can be used strategically to earn cash-back and free groceries. Look for a card with a high earn rate at grocery stores — some offer up to 4% cash back on qualifying purchases — and an annual fee that fits your budget.
You could also go for a brand-focused rewards card with a high rate of points when you shop at a particular grocery store. These points can be redeemed for free groceries or other rewards.
Find coupons from your favorite brands
Visit your favorite brand’s websites and ask for coupons. Brands love connecting with their customers and often respond by sending them directly to you. Some even have newsletters and email lists full of promotions and discounts. You could even get a few free samples; just ask and see what they say.
Buy generic brands
When you buy generic or store brand items instead of the name brand, you can save money immediately — depending on the item, up to 25%. The generic brand has the same ingredients as the name-brand version, and this is especially true with items like baking and cleaning supplies, as well as laundry detergent. Sometimes generic tastes a little different than the name brand, so experiment to see which food you want to save on and which one tastes better.
Get In The Habit
If you do these things consistently, there’s no doubt you’ll start to see savings. The hardest part is sticking to these tips, but they will pay off in the long run.
