Wouldn’t it just be easier if you had a clear-cut guide to more intelligent grocery shopping? Well, consider this your sign from above telling you there’s a better way! Here are the ten commandments of grocery shopping to keep you from burning a hole in your pocket.
Thou Shalt Not Leave Home Without a List
There’s no hope for the grocery shopper who attempts a frugal visit without a shopping list; make one every time, and don’t deviate from it!
Thou Shalt Always Shop Generic
Generics often taste so similar to the brand names that you’ll never miss them — and you certainly won’t miss the higher price tag. Generics are also becoming more popular, meaning that the companies are upping the ante to ensure their products are high-quality.
Thou Shalt Shop the Pantry First
Instead of accidentally buying a third bag of rice, maybe investigate the pantry situation before you even bother making a list. Try your best to devise a few meals a week that rely primarily on pantry ingredients to save even more money.
Thou Shalt Buy In-Season Produce
Grocery stores will have in-season produce in troves. Take advantage of their surplus and buy what’s in season. Not only will it be more delicious, it’ll be significantly cheaper.
Thou Shalt Minimize Food Waste
Every grocery shop is cheaper when you aren’t re-buying things you let go bad. Keep your food waste to a minimum by planning meals and finding creative uses for anything about to go off. You can also use a document or cheat sheet to remind yourself what needs to be used.
Thou Shalt Meal Plan
Frugality and food all start with meal planning. You can plan your meals down to the cent, saving a shocking amount of money over the year. And if you can prep your meals, you’ll save time and money, which everyone could use more of!
Thou Shalt Take Advantage of Store Rewards Cards
If you’re already shopping at your local grocery store, you might as well sign up for their rewards cards. Grocery stores often have exclusive deals for members, so don’t leave those savings on the table!
Thou Shalt Buy Less Meat
Meat can get extremely expensive if you’re eating it too often. Try to switch things up by incorporating more vegetables, beans, and grains into your diet. It’ll be cheaper, and it’s fun to try new recipes!
Thou Shalt Pay in Cash
Bringing cash to the grocery store and leaving the plastic at home forces you to stick to your grocery budget. It’ll prevent the ever-enticing impulse purchases in the snack aisle because you literally can’t afford it if you haven’t brought the cash!
Thou Shalt Always Cut Coupons
Anyone who wants to focus on frugal food shopping has to start with the most obvious of the commandments: cutting coupons. You don’t even have to put in much effort to see some decent returns — just see what’s on sale before you go and clip the coupon if it’s relevant to your shopping list.
