Grocery Shopping Hacks That Are Absolutely Genius
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We’ve all experienced it—coming home from the store and realizing we forgot something important or went over budget. Grocery shopping can be tricky, but with these 19 practical tips, you can make your next trip easier and more organized.
Bring a List with You
Creating a list is one of the simplest ways to avoid impulse purchases. Organize your list by sections (such as food and non-food) for a streamlined trip.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can save money in the long run for products you use regularly, such as rice, grains, or beans. Avoid buying perishable items in bulk unless you have a special plan to use them. You can also buy family-size meat, portion it out to make meal prep easier, and store it in your freezer.
Avoid Buying Pre-Cut Food
Pre-chopped fruits and vegetables may save you time, but they come with a higher price tag. Save money by opting for whole produce and doing the prep work yourself at home.
Ask for a Raincheck
Ask for a raincheck. If an item on sale is out of stock, many grocery stores offer rainchecks so you can still get the sale price later. Just request one at customer service, and you can return the next week to snag the deal!
Don’t Shop Hungry
This is an old-fashioned trick our grandparents used. Have lunch or grab a snack before going to the store, because when we are hungry, everything looks tempting!
Plan Your Meals in Advance
Make a meal plan for the week and check what’s on sale. For instance, if vegetables are discounted, consider making recipes with interesting salads or stir-fries. Planning your meals around sales will save your budget.
Check the Clearance Section
The clearance section is a good place for deals. Just be sure you will use these items before expiration dates!
Prioritize Essentials
Essentials include staple foods such as vegetables, fruit, dairy, beans, and meat. Start with essentials before you even get to the sections with snacks, processed foods, and baked goods.
Shop Alone
It might seem selfish, but bringing along kids can lead to extra items in your cart! Shop alone to stay focused and avoid awkward “just one treat” moments.
Check Out Store Brands
Store brands, items produced for a particular chain, typically cost less without compromising quality. They are often significantly cheaper, sometimes by 20 to 30%.
Check the Price Per Unit
Do not forget to check the price per unit, which is often listed on the shelf tag. “Price per unit” refers to the cost of a product per a standard measurement such as ounce or liter.
Opt for Seasonal Produce
Seasonal produce tends to be cheaper and fresher, allowing you to add cheerfulness to your diet plan throughout the year. Seasonal fruits and vegetables usually come from local farms and they are best when they’re harvested in their natural season.
Shop Early in the Day
This trick can be a game-changer for saving your time and nerves. Fully stocked shelves and a quieter store will allow you to have the first pick of fresh produce. Slowly at your own pace, without crowds at the cash register.
Bring Cash, Not Cards
Set a clear grocery budget and take only the cash you need. This will help prevent overspending and keep your purchases within your financial limits.
Bring Your Own Bags
Bringing your bags is a good way to save a little cash and reduce plastic waste, making a positive impact. Reusable bags are larger and sturdier than most plastic bags.
Grab a Basket Instead of a Cart
For small trips, use a basket instead of a cart. You will be more mindful of the items you need, as you will pick only what you can carry in the basket.
Do Curbside Pickup
Consider grocery pickup to avoid browsing the aisles and falling into the trap of impulse buying. Stores like Walmart and Target offer curbside pickup, saving you time and helping you stick to your list.
Price Match
Some grocery stores will allow price matching if the product is available at another store for a cheaper price. Make sure to ask and compare prices when shopping.
Shop Deals and Coupons
Stores usually have their weekly sale schedules, and many of them have specific markdown days for perishable items. Check apps and websites for weekly deals and coupons. It takes only a few minutes of planning, but it can add up to big savings!
12 Places to Grocery Shop on a Budget
Since groceries make up a significant portion of our budget, finding the best places to shop on a budget is more important than ever. So, here are 12 fantastic places to shop for groceries that will help you save money, whether you’re shopping for yourself or the family.
12 Best Places to Grocery Shop on a Budget
84 Restaurants That Offer Free Birthday Food
Birthdays are a special time to celebrate with loved ones and indulge in delicious food. But did you know some restaurants offer free birthday food? Getting food at a discount or free makes it taste that much better–especially on your birthday! Here is a list of 84 restaurants that offer free birthday food.
Free Always Tastes Good: 84 Restaurants That Offer Free Birthday Food
12 Things to Make at Home Instead of Buying from the Grocery Store
Making more things at home can significantly reduce your grocery list while living more sustainably. Here’s a list of simple items you can easily make yourself instead of purchasing them from the store, helping you take a step toward a more self-reliant lifestyle.
12 Things to Make at Home Instead of Buying from the Grocery Store
