3 Ways To Save Money On Your Weekly Grocery Shopping Trip

For many people, grocery shopping is one of their biggest monthly expenses. Even if you’re not struggling to make ends meet, it’s never fun to spend hundreds of dollars on things you’re just to use up and have to replace the following week. So if you can find some way to save money with each trip you’re making, not only will you be in a better spot financially, but you’ll also have a better relationship with grocery shopping. To help make this happen for you, here are three ways you can save money on your weekly grocery shopping trips. 

Come To The Store Prepared 

In most instances, you’re probably not going to be able to save money by just showing up and hoping to find a sale. To maximize your savings, you’re going to need to come to the store prepared. According to Julie R. Thompson, a contributor to The Huffington Post, a couple things you can do to prepare to save money is clip coupons, take advantage of rain checks, not going to the store hungry, bringing your own shopping bags, and making a grocery list. All of these things will help keep you from spending extra money at the store either on things that are priced too high or items that you shouldn’t necessarily be buying anyway. 

Know When To Go Generic 

While you might have some brands that you think you’d prefer to buy, you can actually save a lot of money simply by choosing the generic option of the product you need. In fact, in many instances, the product that’s store brand and the product that’s name brand have only marginal differences or really no difference at all, aside from what you’re paying for it. According to Casey Slide, a contributor to Money Crashers, some things you should always be buying generic are those classic food staples and canned or fresh produce. In general, only things like meat and paper products have a real difference in the generic versus name brand when it comes to quality. 

Strategically Move Around The Store 

Depending on where you’re shopping within the store, you may be spending more money and buying less healthy products then you’re meaning to. According to Alyse Whitney, a contributor to Bon Appetit, you can save a lot of money by sticking to the outer aisles of the store, which is where less processed foods are. Additionally, try to scan from the bottom of the shelves up when looking for products, as the most expensive options are usually at eye-level where it’s easiest for shoppers to see and grab.

If you’re wanting to save money on your grocery trips, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you do just that.