Save Money at the Grocery Store
Do you enjoy grocery shopping or do you put it off for as long as possible? When I finally take time to buy food, it seems like I end up spending so much that I remember why I didn't want to go in the first place! Follow these tips for keeping your grocery costs low.



1. Before you go to the store, check your pantry and freezer. How many meals could you pull together if you bought just one or two more ingredients?



2. Shop from a prepared list. Buy what you need and avoid spontaneous purchases that bust your budget.



3. Know your store. When do they stock? When do they mark down high-ticket items like meat? What is their store brand? Where are their reduced items? What are this week's loss leaders ?



4. Take advantage of coupons, but only on things that you already use.



5. Price match. Be aware of what things cost.



6. Evaluate if buying in bulk would be cost-effective for you. Will you consume the entire product before the expiration date? Do you have room to store it in the meantime?



7. In-season fruits and veggies cost less than out-of-season specialty foods. Consider buying extra and freezing for later in the year.



8. Try a store brand product for a while and see if your family notices. Many stores offer a money-back guarantee if you don't like their brand as well.



9. Compare units for best value. For example, sometimes two 1-pound bags of carrots cost less than one 2-pound bag, so shop smart.



10. Choose convenience products only when you need the convenience.



11. Shop for non-food items like cleaning products and makeup at discount stores; they usually cost more at a grocery store.





**In general, the fewer trips you make to the store, the less money, time, and energy you'll spend.