A Lovely Guide to: Saving Cash At the Grocery Store in 2022
As prices continue to rise at the pump and the grocery store many Americans are trying to find ways to save on groceries. If you’re like me, I was already spending a small fortune to feed my family of four long before the prices went up. Now, it seems like I’m just lighting money on fire with every grocery purchase. So, here’s the 411 on how you can save money on everyday purchases!
This pretty much sums up how I feel about inflation.
Use grocery pick up: It seems simple but I’ve tested this one out and I definitely spend more money in store than I do when I shop online. If you’re an impulse buyer like myself, planning out meals and utilizing grocery pick up will save you a few bucks simply from not being tempted to buy things you don’t need. It also keeps you out of the store with the kids in tow— Taking kids to the grocery store makes it much more difficult to say no to items you don’t have on your list.
Compare prices between stores: Sounds simple but it’s A LOT of work. I get it. Nothing annoys me more than having to shop at multiple grocery stores. I would love to be able to get everything I need at one location and go home knowing I saved the most money. From what I can tell that probably isn’t possible. For me, I alternate between Aldi ( which is typically cheapest particularly on produce), Walmart, Costco, Sams Club, and every couple of months —Trader Joes when I’m near one. While I really want to just buy everything at Aldi, they simply don’t offer everything I need on my list— regardless we ALWAYS save money if we shop there first so I highly suggest you do the same if you aren’t already.
Use an app that will pay you to shop: I have been doing this consistently. It’s so simple— you just scan your receipt into the app and earn points that can be converted to gift cards. I’ll link it here if you’re interested in my favorite one. CLICK HERE
Pay with a rewards card: 100 percent honesty- we have no credit card debt and it’s not something I would typically recommend, but with prices on the rise every little bit helps. I recently got a rewards credit card to use when I buy groceries because it gives me cash back. I pay the balance in full the same day I make my purchase and I earn cash. Find one that works for you and utilize it for the rewards.
Buy in bulk when an item you use regularly is a good price: This is pretty self explanatory but it does save money. Find a good deal- stock up!
Go meat free: Try meatless Monday! Meat prices are insane right now— As we go into spring choose one night to try making meals without meat. it has a serious impact on cost and allows you to try new things and get creative. Plus, with so many delicious summer veggies on the horizon it’s a great time to eat simple and fresh. (Don’t get me wrong, I love a good steak and a good farmer I’m just saying you can cut some cost this way)
Set a food budget: I have been terrible about this in the past. But beyond setting a budget- pull up the calculator on your phone and actually tally up your total before you pay.
Shop Midweek: Experts say that “deals” are most likely to happen on Wednesdays. So, if you’re like me and always run to the grocery store on Sunday this new practice might save you some cash!
Ask for a deal: Yes, even at the grocery store. Notice something you’re buying expires soon? Ask if it can be discounted. It happens- and yes, I’ve tried it.
Don’t shop eyelevel: Dave Ramsey suggests shopping for foods that are above or below eye level because they will cost less than what’s directly in front of your eyes.
Organize your pantry and fridge: This is something I love and it’s about more than how it looks. If your pantry and fridge are organized you’re more likely to know what you already have in stock rather than buying duplicates. It’s also easier to create meals with items you already have rather than wondering if you need to go spend more money at the store on dinner. The biggest money saver is to use what you have rather than spending more. Get creative- what can you make from your own pantry/fridge?
Grow your own or shop the farmers market at the end of the day: Raised garden beds in your backyard might save you a bundle this summer if you plant things you regularly buy. Hitting up the farmer’s market? Go at the end of the day and negotiate a deal!
Buy Rotisserie Chicken: Did you know Costco’s rotisserie chickens (located at the back of the store) are there simply to get you in the door and shopping around. As a matter of fact, it costs you more to purchase and make your own chicken at home. Costco doesn’t even make any profit on the chickens… and they’re delicious. Buy a couple and shred them up to use in school lunches, salads, soups etc.
Meal Plan and Eat Leftovers: Start simple. Meal planning completely overwhelms me but I know we like to have tacos once a week and typically grill out SO I always keep food items that allow me to make both meal options in one way or another. I also focus on making things I know we might actually consider heating and eating for lunch the next day. (Truth be told we are just now getting the hang of this but it does make a difference- baby steps, right?)
EAT WHAT YOU BUY: Do you always buy a bag of lettuce and let it rot in your fridge? I’m guilty of it too. Buy your fruits and veggies and prep them when you get home. Your kids and yourself will be way more likely to go through neatly washed and prepped fruits and veggies which means you eat healthier and save money buy not being wasteful.
Have any tips you think should be added? shoot me an email or message me on Instagram @oh_lovely_blog and I’ll reshare.