Kroger shoppers already know to check the weekly ad, but other ways to cut grocery costs can easily slip under the radar. From digital coupons and Fuel Points to clearance deals and store-brand products, a few simple habits can help you keep more money in your pocket.
Join Kroger Plus Before You Shop
A free Kroger Plus account gives you access to member prices, digital deals, and other discounts throughout the store. Without signing up, you could miss out on savings available to loyalty members.
Related: 8 Grocery Store Purchases Frugal Shoppers Rarely Put in Their Carts
Clip Digital Coupons Before You Leave Home
Kroger offers digital coupons through its app and website, with discounts on groceries, household supplies, and other items. Add the coupons that match your shopping list before checkout, since some deals require you to load them to your account in advance.
Related: 10 Grocery Store Perks That Won’t Cost You a Thing
Don’t Forget About Fuel Points
Qualifying grocery purchases can earn Fuel Points that you can redeem for gas discounts at participating Kroger Fuel Centers and partner stations. Check the current rewards rules and special promotions before a larger shopping trip to see whether your planned purchases could earn extra points.
Related: 12 Things You’re Probably Overpaying for at the Grocery Store
Browse the Clearance Sections
Kroger stores may have marked-down products in areas for pantry goods, household supplies, health and beauty products, and seasonal merchandise. Take a look during your visit, but check package condition, expiration dates, and the price per unit before deciding whether a deal is worth buying.
Related: 16 Ways to Stop Spending So Much Money at the Grocery Store
Shop the Store Brand
Kroger’s store-brand options include Kroger Brand, Private Selection, and Simple Truth, covering everything from basic pantry staples to specialty foods. Compare prices and package sizes with national brands, since store-brand pasta, cheese, snacks, and frozen foods may cost less for a similar product.
Grocery Pickup Can Help You Spend Less
Ordering groceries online for curbside pickup lets you review your cart before paying. Shopping from home can also make it easier to stick to your list and remove impulse buys, though pickup fees or minimum-order rules may apply.
Watch for Free Friday Promotions
Kroger has offered Free Friday digital coupons that let eligible loyalty members claim a selected item at no cost during a limited period. Check the app or website to see whether a promotion is available, and read the coupon terms and expiration date before heading to the store.
Buy Gift Cards When They’re on Promotion
Kroger sometimes runs promotions that award bonus Fuel Points for eligible gift card purchases. Buying a gift card for a restaurant or retailer you already plan to visit can be worthwhile, but check the promotion terms and avoid spending extra just to earn rewards.
Check the Reduced Produce and Meat Sections
Some stores mark down fresh meat, bakery goods, and produce as they approach their sell-by dates or need to move inventory. These deals can lower your grocery bill if you plan to use the food soon or freeze it safely, so check the packaging and storage instructions before buying.
Use the App to Plan Your Shopping Trip
The Kroger app brings together several shopping tools, including digital coupons, weekly ads, shopping lists, Fuel Point balances, and personalized offers. Check it before leaving home so you can plan purchases around deals that match the items you actually need.
Small Habits Can Lead to Bigger Savings
Saving at Kroger doesn’t have to mean spending hours hunting for deals or buying things just because they’re on sale. Load coupons, compare prices, check markdowns, and use rewards on purchases you’d make anyway to keep your grocery spending under control.
