Hacks for Saving Money While Grocery Shopping
June 22, 2023
With today’s inflation and rising costs, everyone can benefit by saving a few dollars at the grocery store. Read on to learn some tips on how to save during your next shopping trip.
Check Your Pantry First
Before you head to the store, check your fridge, freezer, and pantry for what food you already have. There’s a good chance you have some of the ingredients that are on your shopping list. How many times have you bought produce that you didn’t realize you already had, only to throw it out after it sat in your fridge for a few weeks? Cut down on accidental spending and waste by keeping your existing food inventory top of mind.
Stick to Your List
Having a list and by extension, a budget, ensures you are not overspending on food and can help you make smart decisions while at the store. Create your list of items you need to buy and set a budget.
Additionally, using your list to come up with a meal plan that includes set ingredients will help you plan ahead before you step foot in the store, saving you both time and money. This will also help you get into the practice of identifying the ingredients you may already have.
Sales and Coupons
Find out when your preferred grocer or supermarket starts its weekly sales and shop early. That way, you can take advantage of these deals before the products sell out. You’ll also save yourself time by shopping on a day when the store is less crowded.
Coupons can save you quite a bit on your grocery bill. The average American household could save $1,465 per year by using coupons when they shop weekly shopping according to a research study conducted by couponfollow.com.
Buy in Bulk
If there are ingredients that you buy often you can always consider buying in bulk. It will save you in the long term as long as you remain vigilant about using them and getting your money’s worth. Bulk shopping also has added benefit if you are meal prepping as well as you save on ingredients you were planning to buy a lot of already. Meal prepping for the week ahead of time will also help you cut down on ordering takeout or dining out, which can prove costly.
Cash Back Card
We’ve talked about making lists and budgeting, but spending of course, is the last step in your grocery shopping experience. Shopping with a credit card can help put cash back into your pocket if you use a card that offers cash back rewards for grocery purchases.
OU Credit Union is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their grocery shopping trips. The OU Credit Union Visa Signature Credit Card offers 3% cash back on all grocery store purchases helping you to stretch your budget even further. Visit oucreditunion.org/visa to learn more.
Tags: Savings, Tips and Tricks, Budgeting