You’re not alone if you’ve noticed that cost of grocery have dramatically increased recently. Prices rise as a result of inflation, making it difficult but not impossible to save money.

While we’d want to put the blame for everything on inflation, there are other factors at play when it comes to your inability to save money on groceries. It can seem like entering a conflict zone when the food on the shelves is screaming, “Take me home!” and the shopping cart is pleading, “Fill me up!”

Unfortunately, we can’t rescue you from the shopping cart, but we can offer advice on how to buy wisely and save money.

1. Plan your meals ahead of time

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To avoid buying things you don’t need, create a weekly meal plan to determine what you need. Before going to the grocery store, write these down on a shopping list and stick to only buying them. This helps prevent buying items that will ultimately go to waste.

2. Look for discounts

The psychology of discounts • Yoast

To take it further, you can plan your weekly meals around grocery store offers. Check stores’ social media accounts for promotions and plan your meals accordingly!

3. Don’t make a purchase just because it’s on sale

We know we’ve advised you to keep an eye out for discounts, but don’t fall into the trap of buying items you don’t need just because they’re on sale. Yes, the word “sale” in bold red letters can be tempting, but if an item isn’t on your shopping list, you don’t need it and will spend more than you had planned for.

4. Buy foods in the right quantities

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While buying foods in bulk can save you money, this isn’t always the case, especially when it comes to perishable foods, such as vegetables. Why purchase a large quantity of produce like tomatoes only to throw half of them away due to spoilage?

On the other hand, non-perishable items like breakfast cereal can be bought in larger quantities. Just remember to always check the expiration date.

5. Compare prices

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Don’t buy the first product you see in front of you, as the products placed at eye level are usually the most expensive. Look up and down and compare prices and weights to get the best value for money. This may take longer, but adopting this practice will help you save more money in the long run!

6. Don’t shop when you’re hungry

Don't go shopping when you're hungry' - and other top tips to slashing your supermarket bills - Mr Justice - Chronicle Live

You may make many mistakes when you’re hungry, such as eating the chocolate bar your child hid in the refrigerator to eat after school. And while your child might forgive you for eating their snack, your grocery bill won’t be as forgiving if you shop when you’re hungry. Make sure you go to the supermarket with a full stomach, so you don’t crave everything you see.

7. Bring out the farmer in you

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If you have a garden at home, bring your shovel and follow us! There are many vegetables and fruits that you can grow in your garden to save money, such as tomatoes, carrots, radishes, and bell peppers. Don’t have a garden? You can still grow some herbs in pots indoors, such as mint, parsley, and cilantro.

8. Take 5 minutes each week to check on your fridge

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Your refrigerator has feelings, and you don’t want it to be upset by spoiled produce. Keep track of what’s inside and plan your meals accordingly. For example, if you have a few carrots and zucchini in your fridge, add potatoes to your shopping list and make vegetable soup for dinner. This way, you’ll save money and add a creative touch to your meals.

9. Shop alone

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Going grocery shopping with your kids or spouse can lead to overspending. To avoid this, put your kids to sleep or turn on the TV to preoccupy your spouse! This way, you can avoid impulsive purchases and stick to your budget.

By practising these habits while shopping for groceries, you will be able to save more, achieve your financial goals faster, and invest in the future — or even save to buy that thing you want now.

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