When was the last time that you looked over your household’s budget? If it’s been a while, it may be time to sit down and see where you could be saving. Your grocery budget is likely one of your biggest (and most flexible) categories. If you use the following tips, you could probably save a bit of your allotted grocery budget each month:
Take the time to do it yourself.
At the grocery store, you may for convenience. That means that the pre-made items, such as bakery goods, spice mixes, prepared meals, etc, are all going to cost you more than if you were to buy the ingredients and make it yourself.
Stick to the edges of the store instead of the aisles.
While we’re on the subject of doing it yourself, you will save yourself money by buying most of your groceries from the edge of the store. This includes the Dairy section, the Meat and Seafood counters, and the Produce section. Buying the basic, raw ingredients is also healthier than buying the processed foods that they stock in the aisles. This, of course, doesn’t count for staples like flour and sugar, which most home cooks aren’t equipped to make themselves.
Buy in bulk for a lower price per unit.
When you are looking at what size product to buy, you always want to consider the price per unit (it’s often listed on the item’s shelf label). More often than not, the bigger size will cost less per unit. This means that buying a large – or bulk – size will cost you less in the long run.
Never shop on an empty stomach.
If you go grocery shopping with a stomach that is begging to be filled, you are more likely to purchase foods that are high in calories, according to this article from the New York Times.
Use a list of meals for the week.
Have a plan before you even think about stepping foot into the store. Before you shop, you need to know two things: what you already have in your pantry and fridge, and what you need to buy for the week (or until the next time that you plan to shop). Your grocery list should include all of the ingredients that you need to make a preplanned list of meals for your family.
Be careful with your coupons.
Coupons can save you money, but only if you plan to buy the item in question. Don’t use a coupon simply for the sake of saving – it can backfire if you end up purchasing items that you wouldn’t otherwise have put in your cart.
Now that you know how to cut back on your grocery budget, call 617-298-0655 to find out how you can save on your home insurance and auto insurance budgets! Get in touch with an agent at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, and we will check your current insurance policy to ensure that you are receiving all the discounts to which you are entitled. The call is easy, and the policy check is free, so pick up the phone today!
