A trip to the grocery store doesn’t need to hurt your wallet—or your patience. With some smart tricks and know-how, you can cut time, save money, and avoid falling for marketing ploys designed to encourage overspending. From planning ahead to navigating your local store strategically, these 15 hacks will transform you into a savvy shopper who gets the most out of their money.
Always Write a List
You are bound to overspend if you waltz into a grocery store without a list. Take the brief extra time to jot down exactly what you need based on meals you’re cooking that week. Not only will this keep your spending in check, but it can also help you avoid repeat purchases of items you don’t actually need.
Don’t Shop on an Empty Stomach
When your stomach is grumbling, you may choose to buy things you don’t actually need. That bag of cookies or new snack looks way better on an empty stomach. Going grocery shopping after a meal will keep your cravings in check and aid you in sticking to your list. Grab a snack before heading in, and you’ll likely walk past the junk food without a second thought.
Leverage the Store’s App
Most major retailers have their very own app chock full of digital coupons, up-to-date deals, and opportunities to earn rewards. Before you shop, peruse the app to track down any worthwhile deals. You can often uncover discounts that aren’t advertised in-store. Some apps even have the option to use their virtual cart to estimate your grand total or even order for delivery.
Start With the Perimeter
Produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items are usually situated on the outer edges of the store while the inner aisles are where you can find packaged and processed foods. By honing in on the perimeter first, you will naturally prioritize healthy options and avoid overspending on tantalizing and unnecessary snacks.
Don’t Forget to Check Price-Per-Unit
Packaging alone may mislead you – bigger boxes actually aren’t always the best deal. Be sure to confirm that the price-per-unit offers you more bang for your buck. You can typically find the price-per-unit on the shelf price tag. You can also do some quick math to figure it out – divide the price by the unit. It’s not uncommon for two smaller boxes to cost less than the bulk alternative.
Avoid Eye-Level Shelves
Oftentimes, brands pay for prime real estate in grocery stores. That means the most expensive items will often sit right at eye level while you peruse the aisles. Remember to check high and low for better deals on the shelf. This is where you’ll typically find store brands and value options.
Become a Loyalty Programs Member
Joining your local grocery store’s loyalty program is a surefire way to save – even if you don’t shop there often. Through their program, you can access member-only deals, fuel points, and personalized deals based on your shopping history and preferences. Signing up is typically free of charge and the savings rack up faster than you think.
Buy in Bulk
It can be very smart to buy in bulk for certain items. When it comes to non-perishables or staples such as rice, pasta, or canned goods, you can get more product for your money. Just beware of overbuying anything perishable in bulk that may spoil before you have a chance to use it. If you have enough freezer space, buy meat, bread, or vegetables to store away.
Don’t Overlook Store Brands
Generic and store-brand products are often produced in the same factories as name brands – they’re just markedly cheaper with less flashy packaging. Switch to store brands for staples such as sugar, flour, cereal, canned veggies, and more. You may not even be able to tell the difference but your wallet will thank you.
Go for a Basket, Not a Cart
If you’re just running into the store for a few necessities, grab a basket instead of a cart. Working with a smaller container will force you to skip impulse buys and only buy what you came for – there won’t be room for a lot. It will help you to think twice about picking up extra items since you can only carry so much.
Choose to Shop on a Weekday
Long lines, crowds, and sold-out items – weekends are the busiest time at grocery stores. If your schedule allows, choose to shop during weekday mornings or early afternoons when the store is far quieter and better stocked. You’ll zip through the aisles with ease, less tempted to grab an in-store promotion on impulse. Weekday shopping is more meticulous and intentional.
Swing By the Frozen Section
Despite what you may think, frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious as fresh produce. Plus, they cost less and last longer. They’re flash-frozen at peak ripeness, ideal for smoothies, soups, and stir-fries. Throw a few in your cart to cut back on food waste and extend your dollar.
Check the Sales Before Meal Planning
Before you even touch your shopping list, be sure to take a look at weekly ads and coupons. If beef is on sale, consider doing smash burgers for dinner. Planning around the deals at your grocery store will help you cut costs without sacrificing variety or nutrition. When you get in the swing of it, this strategy can put a major dent in your monthly grocery bill.
“Buy One, Get One” Isn’t Always a Great Deal
Don’t fall for the BOGO hype. Sometimes these deals can be amazing, but only if you truly need two of the items on sale. It’s also important to note that some stores will bump up the price of one to cover for the cost of the second. Be sure to take a look at the shelf tag or price history if you’re unsure. You don’t want to get duped by a lackluster deal.
Keep Track of What You Spend As You Shop
Don’t throw items into your cart willy-nilly – track how much you’re wracking up. Using your phone calculator or a tally app, keep a running total of what’s in your cart. Some grocery store apps even allow you to scan as you shop to keep a list going. Keeping track of what you’re spending will help you stay on budget and cut down on impulse purchases.
