Many people find that most of their earned income is spent on food. A major money-saving tip is to eat meals at home, as opposed to dining out; but what if a trip to the grocery store is just as expensive? Groceries can be hard to budget for, especially if you are responsible for feeding a large household or aren’t the most creative chef and don’t know what to cook. If you find that you are spending too much on groceries and need help saving money, look no further – here are 5 simple ways to save on your grocery bill.
#1. Buy Generic
One of the easiest ways to save money is by opting for generic items from a store’s own brand instead of a name-brand option. The ingredient list is usually identical, and you can save up to 50% on some items by choosing not to pay more for a label.
#2. Switch Up Where You Shop
Some grocery stores are more expensive than others. Looking online to compare prices across stores in your area and choosing to shop at the cheapest can help you save. You could also order pre-made meals from a service like Lean Kitchen, which could not only save you money but will save you time selecting and preparing healthy meals.
#3. Find Coupons
Most stores offer coupons online or in their printed ad each week. Before you head to the store, check for any coupons or deals on items you are planning to purchase. This can save you up to a hundred dollars each grocery trip, depending on what coupons are available!
#4. Buy in Bulk
If you are buying for a large family or just want to stock up on essentials so you can make fewer trips to the grocery store, buying items in bulk from a store like Costco or Sam’s Club can save you hundreds of dollars over time. Membership to these stores might be expensive upfront but will pay for itself in no time with the money you are saving.
#5. Order Ahead
Ordering groceries ahead of time for delivery or curbside pickup is not only convenient and time-saving but can help prevent you from making any impulse purchases and leaving the store with food you don’t need or won’t eat. Ordering groceries online is a great way to stay mindful of the items you are purchasing and the money you are spending and can help you save a lot of money over time.