One of the biggest expenses we will have over our lifetime is buying food. We need it for survival and we tend to overspend regularly. When we are planning our budgets, it is important to include ways we can save money on food.
How much are you spending?
Start by looking at what your family currently spends on groceries per week. Be sure you include all the little stops to the store in between your weekly trip. For instance, did you go back to get milk or coffee when you ran out on Tuesday? The reason this is important is often we underestimate just how many dollars we spend out of our overall budget.
After you see what you are currently spending, look for ways you can cut. Could you buy dried herbs instead of fresh? Is there an off-brand that might be just as good? Could you start to use more hand towels and decrease the number of paper towels you are using?
Once you determine this, stick to the budget you created. Keep a running tab on your phone or calculator while you put items in your basket. For a true test of skills, use cash to pay. Trust me! This is effective!
Plan Ahead
For inspiration, look at the store flyer before planning your weekly meals. Check to see what foods are on special this week and plan your menus accordingly. Look for the buy one get one deal on items you frequently use or that you would use in place of another this time instead of your preferred brand because you can get twice as much for the same cost. On another note, beware of buying items just because they are on sale. If you would not normally purchase an item, it is not a savings to buy it only because it is on sale. Remember to think about family activities coming up and be sure to prepare for either making meals ahead or not buying food that will go to waste.
Cut Coupons
Coupons can be a huge saver of funds at the market. You can find so many more coupons between your local store coupons, manufacturer coupons, and different apps. Why pay more for your food when you can pay less and use that money toward another budget category? Some stores will even accept competitor coupons. It may take you a little more effort, but the savings will be worth it.
Stick to the Season
When choosing fresh fruits and veggies, choose those in season and it is always better to buy from a source closer to where you live. The less the food had to travel, the fresher it will be and the longer it will last. If you need something for a recipe that is not in season, check the freezer section. Fresh foods are ideal for nutrients, but throwing a bag of mixed veggies in your chicken pot pie, might do the trick if you are looking to stay within your budget.
Just using these simple tips can save you hundreds of dollars at the supermarket. I bet you have other nuggets on how you are reducing costs on groceries. We would love to hear about them!