9 Easy Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store

If it seems like you’ve been spending more at the grocery store these days, you’re probably right—and you’re not alone. Factors like severe weather and the war in Ukraine have led to all of us dropping more cash than we’re used to on our favorite foods. As CNN reported, food prices were more than 9 percent higher in April 2022 than they were just a year earlier, the largest annual increase in 41 years.

And while it’s unclear when we’ll start to feel relief, there are simple changes we can make to help ease the burden. Here are some simple tips that can help you save on your family’s grocery bill.

There’s An App for That

If your favorite store has an app, be sure to download it. You can use it to take advantage of manager’s sales and store specials and save lots of money on your grocery bill in the long run.

Make a List, Check it Twice

The best way to blow your budget is to go to the store without a list. Don’t even think about shopping from memory. You’re either going to forget stuff or buy a whole lot of stuff you don’t need. And if you know your store well enough, it can help to make your list of items in the order you’ll find them in the store. That way, you’ll keep yourself from wandering around aimlessly.

Don’t Shop on an Empty Stomach

Before you head to the store, make sure you’ve had something to eat. You don’t want to waste time or money on things you don’t really need just because they look good when you’re hungry.

Shop Store Brands When Possible

You may have your favorite brands of cereal and soda (especially if you have kids). But shopping store brands for some grocery staples like spices and baking supplies can save you lots of money on your overall grocery bill. Often, these items have the same ingredients as the name brands without all of the fancy packaging. “You can save anywhere from 10% to 30% on price if you’re buying generic,” says Trae Bodge of truetrae.com.

Bring Your Own Bags

Many cities and states around the country are starting to charge fees for the use of paper or plastic bags provided by the store. Bringing your own reusable shopping bags can help you save on those bag fees that can add up if you shop every week. It’s also way better for the environment.

Make Use of Your Freezer

When you buy in bulk, make sure your food doesn’t go to waste by taking advantage of the space in your freezer. Extra loaves of bread, meat and fish can last a lot longer when stored frozen. Frozen fruits and veggies can also be a great cost saving alternative to the fresh variety.

Stay Away From Precut Foods

Buying precut fruits and veggies can save you a lot of time during meal prep, but you’re going to pay for that convenience. Buy whole fruits and vegetables instead and cut them yourself.

Pay Attention to The Unit Price

You may be drawn to a low price tag on the shelf. But you need to compare the unit price on the items you’re shopping for to know if you’re actually saving. Don’t worry, you don’t need to shop with your calculator or an advanced math degree. The work is usually already done for you.

Shop Around (When it Makes Sense)

I get it, it’s definitely more convenient to get everything on your list from one store. But sometimes, it makes more sense to shop around. Your grocery store may have the best deals on produce, but your local Target may be the best place to buy store brand pantry staples like beans and pasta. Just make sure you aren’t blowing all of your savings on gas getting from store to store.