Grocery shopping can get expensive fast, especially when a quick trip for a few basics somehow turns into a much bigger bill. You can’t control what the store charges, but you can change a few habits that make it easier to keep your spending in check.
A little planning before you leave home can go a long way. Making a list, checking what you already have, comparing prices, and skipping those tempting extras can help you save a little on each trip and more over the course of a year.
Here are 16 grocery shopping tricks that can help lower your food bill.
Buy Whole Fruits and Vegetables
Pre-cut fruit, chopped vegetables, and bagged salads are convenient, but you’re paying extra for that convenience. Buying whole produce and doing the prep at home usually costs less and can give you more food for your money.
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Buy Produce That’s in Season
Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper because stores have more of them available. Plan meals around what’s in season, and you’ll have an easier time finding fresh produce at a lower price.
Don’t Shop on an Empty Stomach
Walking through the grocery store hungry makes all those snacks and treats much harder to ignore. Eat something before you leave, and you’re more likely to stick with the items you actually planned to buy.
Make a Grocery List
A grocery list gives you something to follow instead of relying on whatever catches your eye in the aisles. Write it on paper or keep it on your phone, then try to stick to it.
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Check Your Pantry First
Take a quick look through your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer before you head out. You might find enough ingredients for a meal or two and avoid buying something you already have.
Plan Meals Before You Shop
Planning a few meals ahead of time makes it easier to figure out what actually needs to go in your cart. It can also save you from staring into the fridge after work and deciding that ordering takeout is easier.
Compare Unit Prices
The bigger package isn’t always the cheaper choice, so check the unit price before you buy. Looking at the cost per ounce, pound, or other measurement makes comparing different sizes and brands much easier.
Related: 8 Things Frugal Shoppers Always Do Before Going Grocery Shopping
Buy in Bulk When You’ll Use It
Larger packages can be a good deal for foods your household goes through regularly. Stock up on things like rice, beans, pasta, oats, flour, or coffee only if you’ll use them before they go stale or expire.
Grab a Basket Instead of a Cart
A shopping cart gives you plenty of room to keep adding things as you walk around the store. If you’re buying just a few items, a basket can make it easier to stop shopping once your hands are full.
Choose Store Brands
Store brands are often cheaper than name brands, and many taste just as good. Try them with everyday items such as canned foods, pasta, frozen vegetables, dairy products, and baking supplies to see where you can cut costs.
Related: The Things That Instantly Make You an Annoying Grocery Shopper
Look for Coupons
Many grocery stores now offer coupons through their websites and mobile apps instead of handing out paper versions. Check for available discounts before shopping and pair them with store sales when you can.
Join the Store’s Loyalty Program
A free store loyalty program can give you access to lower prices and special offers. Some programs also provide coupons based on the products you buy most often, which can make the savings more useful.
Use Cash-Back Apps
Cash-back apps can give you money back on certain groceries after you make a purchase. The amount from one receipt may be small, but those rebates can add up if you use them regularly.
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Compare Prices Between Stores
Grocery prices can vary quite a bit from one store to another, even for the same items. Check the prices at a few nearby stores and buy certain categories where they tend to cost less.
Skip the Tempting Displays
End-of-aisle displays and checkout shelves are an easy place to pick up things you never planned to buy. If an item isn’t on your list and you don’t really need it, keep walking and leave the extra money in your budget.
Grow a Few Foods at Home
You don’t need a huge garden to grow some of your own food. Herbs such as basil, parsley, mint, and chives can grow in small pots, while tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers are good choices if you have more room.
