How to Save Money on Groceries

Everyone has to eat, and therefore, everyone has to buy food. If you've been to a grocery store lately, I'm sure you've noticed the amazing selection of food available to buy. With out a shopping plan, it is easy to spend too much money on groceries, buying things you don't need and won't use.

You can avoid wasting both food and money by following these smart grocery shopping tips.

Shop alone

If you bring your spouse or children, count on your bill being higher. Kids often ask for special treats and even the most careful shopper will find it hard to not be persuaded to give in to at least one of their requests. A spouse can be just as bad, although there are some out there who could be quite helpful. Shopping alone will help you stay focused and get in and out of the store more quickly.

Don't Shop Hungry

With all the variety of food available at any grocery store, but especially larger ones, you will do yourself no favor by shopping hungry. You are far more likely to impulse buy and spend money on food you just don't need. Go shopping just after breakfast or lunch to avoid everything in the store looking too tasty to pass up.

Buy In Bulk

In some cases, it saves to buy in bulk. By joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam's Club, you will save money over the long run on items you use a lot of. If you purchase perishables like meat or cheese, consider breaking the amounts down into smaller portions and storing them in the freezer. Don't forget to price check though. Sometimes you can get better deals at grocery store sales, but other times the warehouse club will save you money.

Look Down!

Lower priced items are kept lower on the shelves. Name brand companies often pay premiums to get their product placed at your eye level. Always look for the store brands lower on the shelves which are often just as high quality as the name brands, but much less expensive.

Do the Math

Bring a calculator if you must to figure out cost per ounce or pound. Sometimes the bigger package is a better deal and sometimes it's not. Some stores actually have the price by weight listed on the shelf tag.

Make a Menu, Make a List

Plan meals ahead of time and make your shopping list accordingly. Know what you will need for the week to cut down on multiple trips to the grocery store to pick up "just one or two things" because this often turns into 5 or 6 things, or more. Stick to your list while you shop and you will save money.

Use Coupons Wisely

Don't buy something just because you have a coupon. If you find coupons for items you normally buy, then use it. Also, sometimes the store brand will still be a better deal than the name brand with a coupon, so make sure you are "doing the math." If your store doubles coupons, take advantage of this offer by searching for coupons for items you want to purchase. Many companies offer coupons for their products on line, and there are also many coupon trading sites on line where you can find the coupons you need.

Eat Less

The truth is, most of us eat too much. The cost of prepared snack food can really drive up your grocery bill. Cut out or limit after dinner eating. Cut back on dining out, including fast food. It's fast and cheap, but the money spent on fast food adds up quickly.

By following these guidelines, you should notice your monthly grocery expenditures start to decrease. Now your only problem should be figuring out what to do with the extra money.