How To Get Big Saving On Groceries
One of the biggest expenses that someone sees in their budget is the grocery bill. Many families though have learned how to shop frugally and have reaped the rewards for their efforts. It may take a bit more time, but in the end the results can be huge savings on grocery bills.
Make A List And Check It Twice
The first thing you should do, even before getting to the grocery store, is to make a list. If making a list could save you $5 a week, imagine the savings you would see over a one year period. It’s important to make a list and stick to it. Winging it is not a good idea as you’ll end up spending more than you mean to.
Lists of all kinds help people to be productive and save time. When in the grocery store it will help you to remain focused on exactly what you need, so that you don’t end up buying a lot of impulse items. Make the list when you have at least 1/2 hour of time during the week and only deviate from the list if there are specials that could mean extra savings.
Don’t Shop With Children
Before you go shopping find someone to look after the kids. Trade with a neighbor so that it doesn’t cost you anything. Leaving home without the kids can also lead to huge savings as they will not be asking for every favorite item they see. Also there is nothing worse than trying to shop with a child that has become impatient or tired. It can be very distracting and you can end up not taking the needed time to check different prices on different items.
Customer Loyalty Programs
Today, many stores have what is known as “Customer Loyalty Programs.” If you shop at the same store all the time, make sure you check to see if your supermarket is one of them. These are designed to get repeat business and the savings can range from “members only” prices, special hours for members and double coupon days. Grocery store spending can even be linked to a college savings account. Look at the website UPromise to see exactly what they offer.
Coupons
If you are not using coupons to their full potential then you are throwing money away. Clipping coupons can result in large savings, especially on double coupon days. Keep them organized in a small box and match them up with in-store savings for even more benefits. Some people have reduced their grocery bills by as much as 40% simply by using coupons. Be sure to check out the website “The Grocery Game” for even more savings and ideas.
Don’t Shop When You Are Hungry
One of the biggest mistakes people make is shopping when they are hungry. It’s a proven fact that you are more likely to pick up things you don’t need because you are hungry. Sweets are a big temptation and they are some of the most overpriced items in the store.
Where Are The Best Deals
Many companies pay a premium to have their products placed at eye level. People are more likely to grab it than they are to look higher up or lower when often the best bargains can be found. These alternative products can lead to big savings over a one year period and all you need to do is to make sure you check all the shelves and not just the ones at eye level.
Big Brand Names Mean More Money
Those big brand names often are not the best buy or the best tasting product. Through advertising they convince people they are the best but often generic is just as good if not better. Using your coupons with a different brand can help you to save and discover products you’ve never tried before.
Buy Generic Products
Many shoppers do not realize that those generic products they are not buying are often made by the same company that sells the name brand product. Their ingredients are almost identical and only the outside is different. I first realized this when I bought coffee at Costco. The Kirkland name coffee is made by Starbucks. I realized very large savings by using the store brand and yet still get the same flavor I love. Generic products are everywhere now, from food to detergents. Be sure to check them out the next time you are at the store.