10 Ways to Save on Groceries

The economy is forcing many of us to tighten our belts. One of the areas we often look to is our grocery bills. Now we all need to eat, but there are many ways to save in this area. Here are 10 great ideas to help you cut corners and dollars while buying your groceries.

#1 Plan your menu and shopping list before you even leave the house. In other words, go with a plan. This involves making a detailed shopping list and sticking to it. You can plan your menu and shopping list by looking at the ads for your local stores as well. Planning your menu around sales items will save you even more.

#2 Clip those coupons. Coupons can be a blessing, but use them wisely. Only use them for items you would normally buy anyways. Don't buy an item just because you have a coupon. Compare the savings of your coupon with other brands as well. Make sure you are getting the best buy with your coupon. Pairing coupons and sales is a great way to maximize your savings.

#3 Shop for groceries during off peak hours. We have all been to the store when there is no one there. You can leisurely stroll through the aisles without being rushed or in someone's way. During times like these, you can take your time and really compare prices.

#4 Buy in bulk when you can. The larger the container the less you pay per unit, most of the time. The labels on most shelves will tell you the per unit cost. If they don't, carry your calculator with you. Cereal is a good example. The smaller box may cost less, but the per ounce cost is probably more. The bigger box will cost less per ounce. If it is an item you know you will be using up, buying the larger quality can save you money.

#5 Visit a discount warehouse. This is another place where the buyer needs to beware. Make sure you know your prices. Sometimes it may look like a good buy but when you compare the unit price, it is actually more. Also, be sure that you can use all that you buy. It is no use buying a large quality for a lesser price, if you can't use all the item.

#6 Never grocery shop when you are hungry or stressed. You have probably heard the first one plenty. When you are hungry, everything on the store shelves look good, especially those convenience foods. When you are stressed, the same thing may happen. Looking for the ultimate comfort food you may throw more in your cart that you really don't need.

#7 Learn to cook and bake from scratch. While this may take more time, it will save you money in the long run. Cooking from scratch gives you the ultimate quality control as well.

#8 Cut back on the fancy cuts of meat. Let's face it a t-bone steak cost way more than a roast. A roast feeds more people as well. Learning to cook different cuts of meat is a real benefit. A skirt steak is less expensive and can be cooked and sliced so it is just as enjoyable as that sirloin. Stew meat is relatively inexpensive and can be braised until tender and tasty. Check the meat counter for inexpensive cuts. If you have questions on how to cook them, ask the butcher. They often have great ideas, and some grocery stores even have recipe cards for different cuts.

#9 Eat more vegetables. Vegetables are less expensive and healthier for you. Smaller portions of meat and larger vegetable servings can fill up your plate and your wallet.

#10 Shop for groceries at "other" stores. Stores such as Walgreens, The Family Dollar and the Dollar Store can be a great place to find great buys on food items. They may have sale items to bring in customers. Be ready with the prices from other stores to ensure you are getting a deal. The Dollar Store is a great place to get anything for a buck. Be open minded as to where you buy your groceries.