Today’s better shopping tip is to make your budget last. This job starts at home and continues as you reach the grocery store.
At home, you need to know what you have and what you can make. You need to create your shopping list and stick to it! Smartphone apps like Flipp scan local grocery store flyers and help you find good deals. However, make sure the savings will be worth the extra stop (the time, the gas, and any other costs).
Once you’re done your research, but before you step out the door, make sure you have something to eat especially if you are bringing kids with you. You’ll need your willpower to be at its maximum to resist those impulse purchases! If you forget to grab a snack for the kids, some grocery stores offer complimentary pieces of fruit.
Once you reach the grocery store, you need to be careful about those middle aisles where stores stick the high margin processed foods that are often not as healthy. Grocery stores will stick the higher margin and more impulse-type purchases at eye height (or where kids can grab them!). If you are willing to bend or squat down, you can save yourself some money. Often the products placed on lower shelves are less expensive than those placed at eye level.
Remember that buying in bulk can sometimes save you money, but only if you have a plan to use it all up. And on some occasions, the prices at warehouse stores aren’t better than a grocery store. Make sure you do the math! Some stores will help by providing the cost per weight.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to take something back if it is not good especially if it’s a store brand.
CHALLENGE: Make a grocery list and stick to it! If you’re already a strong list shopper, then bring a kid with you (if you have one) and try to involve them in the grocery list drafting process.
Continue to Part Five here!