Save Money Hound finds some easy ways to save money on groceries. Groceries are a regular item that you buy each week for the household and you can easily find ways to save money in this area of household expenses. Though generally the cost of a basket of groceries for your average household is going up, you can still cut your grocery bill if you know where and how.
How to Save Money on Groceries
Here are some easy ways to save money on your groceries.
Make a shopping list
Make a shopping list before you head out the door. This will help ensure you only buy items that you really need. And also save you from running out the door in a few days time to buy stuff you forgot. Using a shopping list also reduces the impulse to buy stuff you don’t really need.
Check your supermarket catalogue
Check your supermarket catalogue that comes through your mail box before you head out the door. Check off your shopping list against any sale items in the catalogue for some great savings.
Look for discount items
Look for discount items when you are doing your weekly shop especially for regular grocery items that you buy each week. Look for both well priced and good value products that meet your needs.
Buy in bulk
Buying in bulk can save you both money and time especially if the items you are buying in bulk are on sale. When you next go to your supermarket buy in bulk those regular items that go on sale.
Compare across supermarkets
We all get into the habit of buying from the same supermarket each week. Check whether there have been any recent price surveys in your local town or city for where the cheapest supermarket is. Compare the cost of a basket of goods at this supermarket compared to your local supermarket.
Compare prices for the same product
We all have our favourite items that we buy from the supermarket. Ever so often review your buying habits. Compare prices across different brands for the same product at your supermarket. Look for new brands that you can try which are good value.
Buy home brand
Most supermarkets offer home brand products. Try home brand products to see how they compare with other brands. Home brand products usually make good basic ingredients for cooking at home.
Shop Less
Impulse shopping can ramp up your grocery bill. Consider stocking up on bulk items and shopping less frequently for items with a long shelf life. Try not to stock up on perishable items such as fruits and vegetables as this could result in waste.
Markets
Markets are a great place to buy items such as fruits and vegetables. Buy what is in season and add variety to your menu at home by cooking what is in season.
Closing time at the supermarket or weekday specials
Some great bargains are to be had if you wait till near closing time to go to the shops. During the week, look out for regular weekday specials on offer at your local supermarket.
Specialty Shops for personal care items
Find super saver specialty shops for skin care, hair care, cosmetics, cleaning and pharmaceutical products. Shop around to see whether these shops charge less than your supermarket. Stock up on sale items at these specialty shops.
You may also be interested in our article on Easy Ways to Save Money - Find Where it Least Hurts.
