For many people, grocery shopping and the rising costs can lead to a lot of stress. With so many options and prices, it can be overwhelming to decide what to buy. And if you’re trying to save money on groceries while on a budget, it can be even more challenging to find healthy choices that are affordable. And, with the record inflation we have seen in 2022 and 2023, lets be honest, it is hard for anyone to keep up with rising prices. Groceries are often the largest expense for most families behind their mortgages and it can be hard to manage this. But by following a few simple tips, you can become a savvy grocery shopper and save money while still eating well.

5 Tips to Save Money on Groceries

1) Plan Ahead & Know Your Budget

One of the best ways to save money on groceries when you are on a tight budget is to plan ahead. That should start with knowing what your budget is for the week or month. Before you head to the store to go shopping, take a few minutes to plan your meals for the week. Look for recipes that use similar ingredients so you can buy in bulk and avoid waste. Keep track of what you already have in your pantry and fridge, so you don’t buy duplicates or forget items you need. And be sure to collect coupons and sign up for rewards cards and e-mail/online coupons if your store has them. Also, I recommend downloading the flipp app. This app shows many of your local weekly flyers with their sale items, and you can clip them to your basket to make a list for later.

2) Compare Prices While Shopping

Don’t assume that brand name products are always the best choice. Often, store-brand products are just as good and more affordable. Compare prices between different brands and sizes, and don’t forget to check the unit price to see which option is truly the best value. And when using coupons, be sure to compare the price with other options to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

3) Buy in Bulk

When it comes to grocery shopping on a budget for a larger family, if you have the space, buying in bulk can be a great way to save money. Many stores offer bulk options for grains, beans, nuts, and other staples. Just make sure you have enough storage space in your pantry or freezer to store your purchases. And be sure to check the unit price to make sure you’re getting the best value. If you have a Costco or Sam’s Club, consider getting a membership. Both often have deals to sign up, and normally you will end up getting back the membership fee in savings over time.

4) Choose Seasonal Produce

Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, but they can be sometimes be expensive if you’re buying out of season. Whenever possible, choose seasonal produce, which is often less expensive and more flavorful. And, frozen options are also a great option, they don’t always get the love they deserve, but they are often less expensive and usually flash frozen right after picking which keeps their nutrients intact.

5) Don’t Forget to Check Out

Before you leave the store, be sure to check your receipt for discounts and savings. If you notice any errors, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for a correction. And be sure to save your receipts and compare what you spent to what you budgeted each week. This will help you adjust your meal planning and budgeting as needed. Another reason to save those receipts is to scan them for points you can redeem for gift cards down the road!

Also, consider buying online and doing pickup. When the COVID pandemic started, most grocery stores went to online pickup and discontinued charging a fee for it, and we have never paid a fee for it since. Ordering online allows you to keep the list as it is and see what the cost is before you click submit.

Apps to Save Money on Groceries

While there might not be any apps that will specifically cut your grocery bills down, I wrote another post regarding tips on what to look for in an app that you are shopping for groceries from.

Summary

With these simple tips, grocery shopping on a budget doesn’t have to be a scary thing. You can become a smart grocery shopper and save money without sacrificing the quality of your meals. By planning ahead, comparing prices, buying in bulk, choosing seasonal produce, and checking your receipt, you’ll be on your way to a healthier and more affordable diet.

Have you found other ways that have helped you?