13+ Ways to Save Money on Groceries (That Work!)

This post may contain affiliate links from which I may earn a commission without any cost to you. Read our policy for details.

Grocery shopping can often feel like a balancing act between feeding your family healthy meals and sticking to a budget.

With rising food prices, it’s more important than ever to find ways to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or nutrition.

Fortunately, there are plenty of strategies you can implement to cut costs and make your grocery budget stretch further.

In this article, we’ll explore practical tips that can help you save money on groceries while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals.

Let’s find out how you can shop smarter and save more!

1. Create a Weekly Meal Plan

We often stare at our fridge filled with random ingredients on Sunday evenings, unsure of what to make for dinner. This often leads to last-minute takeout orders that can wreak havoc on your budget.

A well-thought-out weekly meal plan can be your secret weapon against this dilemma.

How to Create a Meal Plan

  • Choose Recipes: Start by selecting recipes for the week that use similar ingredients. This minimizes waste and helps you use up what you already have. For example, if you buy spinach, plan to use it in salads, omelets, and smoothies.
  • Make a Shopping List: Write down all the ingredients you need for your planned meals. Organize your list by category (produce, dairy, grains, etc.) to make shopping more efficient.
  • Stick to the Plan: Try to stick to your meal plan as closely as possible. If you find yourself deviating, reassess your plan to ensure it fits your lifestyle and preferences.

Benefits

  • Reduces Food Waste: By planning meals, you’re less likely to buy items that will go unused.
  • Saves Time and Money: A meal plan can streamline your shopping trips and help you avoid last-minute takeout.

2. Make a Shopping List and Stick to It

Walking into a grocery store without a plan can feel like stepping into a candy store – tempting but dangerous for your wallet.

A shopping list acts as your trusty guide, steering you away from impulse buys and keeping your budget intact.

Tips for Effective Shopping Lists

  • Organize by Store Layout: Arrange your list according to the layout of your grocery store. This will save you time and help you avoid wandering the aisles, which can lead to unplanned purchases.
  • Check Your Pantry: Before heading out, check your pantry and fridge to see what you already have. This will help you avoid buying duplicates and ensure you’re only purchasing what you need.

Benefits

  • Prevents Impulse Buying: A shopping list keeps you focused on your needs, reducing the temptation to buy unnecessary items.
  • Saves Money: Sticking to your list can lead to significant savings over time.

3. Use Coupons and Vouchers

Coupons can feel like a secret weapon in your grocery-saving arsenal. They’re a simple way to cut costs and make your budget stretch further.

With the rise of technology, there are now numerous apps available that can help you find and use coupons effectively, making it easier than ever to save money on your grocery bill.

How to Maximize Coupon Savings

  • Collect Coupons: Look for coupons in newspapers, online, or through store apps. Many stores offer digital coupons that you can load onto your loyalty card, making it easy to apply discounts at checkout.
  • Combine with Sales: Use coupons on items that are already on sale for maximum savings. This strategy can lead to significant discounts, especially on staple items.

Types of Coupon Apps to Consider

  1. Grocery Store Apps: Many grocery chains have their own apps that offer exclusive digital coupons. For example:
    • Kroger: The Kroger app allows you to load digital coupons directly to your loyalty card, track your spending, and view weekly ads.
    • Safeway: The Safeway app offers personalized deals based on your shopping habits, along with digital coupons that can be applied at checkout.
  2. Cashback Apps: These apps allow you to earn money back on your grocery purchases, often in addition to using coupons. Some popular options include:
    • Ibotta: Ibotta offers cashback on a wide range of grocery items. Simply scan your receipt after shopping, and the app will credit your account with cash for eligible items. You can also link your loyalty cards for automatic cashback.
    • Rakuten: While primarily known for online shopping, Rakuten also offers cashback for in-store purchases at select grocery stores. Just link your credit or debit card to earn cashback on qualifying purchases.
  3. Coupon Aggregator Apps: These apps compile coupons from various sources, making it easy to find deals across multiple stores. Examples include:
    • Flipp: Flipp allows you to browse weekly ads and find digital coupons from local stores. You can create a shopping list and see which items are on sale, helping you plan your grocery trips more effectively.
    • Coupons.com: This app provides access to a wide range of printable and digital coupons. You can browse by category or search for specific items, making it easy to find savings on your favorite products.

4. Buy in Bulk

Imagine the thrill of discovering a great deal on a giant bag of rice or pasta at a warehouse club. Buying in bulk not only saves you money but also ensures you’re stocked up on essentials for those busy weeks ahead.

Tips for Buying in Bulk

  • Join a Warehouse Club: Consider joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club for bulk purchasing options. These clubs often offer lower prices on larger quantities of food.
  • Share with Friends: If you don’t have the storage space, consider splitting bulk purchases with friends or family. This way, you can enjoy the savings without the excess.

Benefits

  • Lower Cost per Unit: Buying in bulk often reduces the cost per unit, leading to overall savings.
  • Fewer Trips to the Store: Stocking up on essentials means fewer trips to the grocery store, saving you time and gas.

5. Watch Out for Clearance Sales

Clearance sales can be a goldmine for savvy shoppers. However, it’s essential to be mindful and check expiration dates to ensure you’re getting good deals.

Tips for Shopping Clearance

  • Know the Best Times: Many stores mark down items at the end of the day or week to clear out stock. Plan your shopping trips accordingly.
  • Inspect Items Carefully: Always check expiration dates, especially on perishable goods.

Benefits

  • Great Savings: Clearance items can be significantly discounted, allowing you to stock up on essentials.
  • Reduces Waste: Buying items that are on clearance helps prevent food waste.

6. Choose Generic or Store Brands

When was the last time you tried a generic brand and were pleasantly surprised by its quality? Many of us have discovered that store-brand products can be just as good as their name-brand counterparts, often at a fraction of the price.

Benefits of Choosing Generic Brands

  • Quality: Many store brands are produced by the same manufacturers as name brands, ensuring similar quality. Conduct taste tests to find out which generic brands you prefer.
  • Savings: You can save a significant amount by opting for generic products over name brands. For example, a store-brand cereal may cost $2, while the name-brand version is $4.

Tips for Transitioning to Generic Brands

  • Start Small: Begin by trying generic versions of items you buy frequently. If you like them, gradually switch more items to generic.
  • Read Labels: Compare ingredients and nutritional information to ensure you’re getting a comparable product.

7. Shop Seasonal and Local Produce

There’s something special about wandering through a farmers’ market, surrounded by vibrant colors and fresh scents.

Buying seasonal produce not only supports local farmers but also tends to be cheaper and fresher, making it a win-win for your wallet and your taste buds.

How to Shop Seasonal

  • Visit Farmers’ Markets: Check out local farmers’ markets for fresh, in-season produce at lower prices. You can often find organic options at competitive rates.
  • Research Seasonal Produce: Familiarize yourself with what fruits and vegetables are in season in your area. For example, tomatoes are typically cheaper in summer, while squash is abundant in fall.

Benefits

  • Better Flavor and Nutrition: Seasonal produce is often harvested at its peak, resulting in better flavor and nutritional value.
  • Cost Savings: Seasonal items are usually less expensive due to higher availability.

8. Avoid Shopping When Hungry

We’ve all been there, shopping on an empty stomach and suddenly everything looks delicious. This can lead to a cart full of snacks and treats that weren’t on your list, derailing your budget in the process.

Tips to Avoid Impulse Buying

  • Snack Before Shopping: Have a healthy snack before you go to avoid hunger-driven purchases. A piece of fruit or a handful of nuts can help curb your appetite.
  • Stick to Your List: Focus on your shopping list to resist the temptation of buying unnecessary items. If you find yourself tempted, remind yourself of your budget and meal plan.

Benefits

  • Reduces Unplanned Purchases: Shopping while hungry often leads to buying items you don’t need, which can derail your budget.
  • Promotes Healthier Choices: You’re more likely to make healthier choices when you’re not driven by hunger.

9. Limit Convenience Foods

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to reach for pre-packaged meals for their convenience. However, these options can come with a hefty price tag.

By preparing meals from scratch, you can save money and enjoy healthier options.

How to Reduce Convenience Food Purchases

  • Batch Cooking: Prepare larger portions of meals and freeze leftovers for quick, homemade meals later. For example, make a big pot of chili and freeze individual portions for busy nights.
  • Simple Recipes: Look for simple recipes that require minimal ingredients and time to prepare. Dishes like stir-fries or casseroles can be made quickly and are often budget-friendly.

Benefits

  • Cost Savings: Cooking from scratch is generally cheaper than buying pre-packaged meals.
  • Healthier Options: Homemade meals allow you to control ingredients and portion sizes, leading to healthier eating habits.

10. Go Vegetarian or Vegan for a Week

Meat and seafood can take a big bite out of your grocery budget. Why not try going vegetarian or vegan for a week? Not only can it save you money, but it can also introduce you to delicious new meals.

Tips for Going Meatless

  • Explore New Recipes: There are countless vegetarian and vegan recipes available online that are both affordable and tasty. Try swapping meat for beans, lentils, or mushrooms in your favorite dishes.
  • Plan Your Meals: Just like with meal planning, make sure to plan your vegetarian meals to ensure you have all the ingredients you need.

Benefits

  • Cost Savings: Reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your grocery bill.
  • Health Benefits: A plant-based diet can be beneficial for your health, providing more fiber and nutrients.

11. Use Leftovers Wisely

After a delicious dinner, it’s tempting to let leftovers sit in the fridge until they’re forgotten. Instead, think of leftovers as an opportunity to create new meals and save money.

Tips for Using Leftovers

  • Plan for Leftovers: Incorporate leftover meals into your weekly meal plan. For example, if you roast a chicken, plan to use the leftovers in salads, sandwiches, or soups.
  • Repurpose Ingredients: Use leftover vegetables in soups, stir-fries, or omelets. This not only saves money but also reduces food waste.

Benefits

  • Maximizes Food Use: Using leftovers creatively ensures that you get the most out of your grocery purchases.
  • Saves Time: Leftovers can save you time on busy nights when you don’t feel like cooking.

12. Compare Prices

As savvy shoppers, we often notice that the same brand of cereal can be priced differently at various grocery stores. Taking the time to compare prices can lead to significant savings over time.

How to Compare Prices

  • Use Price Apps: Consider using grocery price comparison apps to find the best deals in your area. Apps like Flipp or Basket can help you compare prices across stores.
  • Keep a Price Book: Track the prices of frequently purchased items to identify the best times to buy. This can help you recognize patterns in pricing and sales.

Benefits

  • Informed Shopping: Comparing prices helps you make informed decisions and ensures you’re getting the best value for your money.
  • Saves Money: Over time, consistently choosing the lowest-priced options can lead to significant savings.

13. Grow Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

The satisfaction of stepping into your backyard and picking fresh herbs for dinner – Its PRICELESS! Growing your own herbs and vegetables can save you money and provide fresh ingredients for your meals.

Benefits of Home Gardening

  • Cost Savings: Growing your own produce can significantly reduce your grocery bill. Herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley are easy to grow and can be expensive to buy.
  • Freshness: Homegrown herbs and vegetables are often fresher and tastier than store-bought options. You can enjoy the satisfaction of eating food you’ve grown yourself.

Tips for Starting a Garden

  • Start Small: If you’re new to gardening, start with a few pots of herbs on your windowsill or a small garden bed in your yard.
  • Research Easy-to-Grow Plants: Look for plants that are easy to grow in your climate, such as tomatoes, peppers, or lettuce.

14. Plan for Snacks and Treats

Have you ever thought about how much money you could save by making your favorite foods at home? DIY-ing kitchen staples can be surprisingly easy and cost-effective.

When the craving for a snack hits, it’s easy to splurge on expensive, pre-packaged options. However, planning for snacks and treats can help you stay within your budget while still enjoying your favorites.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Snacks

  • Make Homemade Snacks: Prepare snacks like granola bars, popcorn, or fruit slices at home. For example, you can make a batch of energy balls using oats, nut butter, and honey for a healthy snack.
  • Buy in Bulk: Purchase bulk snacks like nuts or dried fruit to save money. Portion them into smaller bags for convenient, on-the-go snacks.
  • Start Small: Pick one item to make from scratch, like salad dressing or pasta sauce. Once you get the hang of it, you can expand to other items.
  • Batch Cooking: Make larger quantities and store them for later use. This saves time and ensures you always have something on hand.

Benefits

  • Saves Money: Homemade snacks are often cheaper than store-bought options, especially when bought in bulk.
  • Healthier Choices: Making your own snacks allows you to control the ingredients and avoid added sugars and preservatives.

15. Review Your Grocery Budget Regularly

Sitting down with a cup of coffee to review your grocery spending can be an eye-opening experience. It’s a chance to reflect on your habits and identify areas where you can cut back and save more.

How to Review Your Budget

  • Track Your Spending: Keep a record of your grocery expenses to see where your money is going. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to categorize your spending.
  • Adjust as Needed: If you find you’re consistently overspending, adjust your meal plan or shopping habits accordingly. Look for areas where you can cut back, such as reducing snack purchases or opting for more generic brands.

Benefits

  • Increased Awareness: Regularly reviewing your budget helps you stay aware of your spending habits and make informed decisions.
  • Encourages Savings: By identifying areas for improvement, you can implement changes that lead to significant savings over time.

16. Share Grocery Expenses

Living with family or roommates? Consider sharing grocery expenses to cut costs and reduce waste. It’s a great way to keep your budget in check while enjoying a variety of foods.

Tips for Sharing Expenses

  • Make a Joint List: Collaborate on a grocery list and agree on what to buy together.
  • Split Bulk Purchases: For items like rice or pasta, buy in bulk and share the cost to save money.

Benefits

  • Cost Savings: Sharing expenses can help you save money on groceries while ensuring nothing goes to waste.
  • Social Connection: Grocery shopping can become a fun group activity, making it more enjoyable.

Final Words

Saving money on groceries doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By implementing these practical tips, you can reduce your grocery costs and keep more money in your pocket.

From meal planning and using coupons to growing your own produce, every little bit helps.

Start today, and watch as your grocery budget becomes more manageable and your meals more enjoyable!