From time to time, I like to repeat some of my favorite money saving tips. It’s not because I think you’re dense, but because 1) We continually have new Lords and Ladies joining our ranks 2) One of the best ways to learn is through repetition and 3) I need to remember them myself to continually renew my mind in focusing on saving. So without further ado, here are three of my favorite basic grocery store tips to save you money.
1) Shop the Perimeter. You may have heard this adage in regard to eating more healthfully but it rings true for those wanting to save money, too. Not only are the more healthful foods around the perimeter of your average grocery store (fresh produce, meats, dairy, etc.) but those middle aisles are also stocked with gut and budget busters. The fewer aisles you have to go down, the better.
2) Look high, look low. Stores intentionally stock the products they want you to buy at eye level. The things you really need or should be buying or usually higher or lower. Don’t be fooled.
3) Put ’em back. When you’re finished shopping, look at the items in your cart and identify which three items you should put back on the shelf (or hand to the cashier for restocking). No matter how diligent you are, usually 2-5 items have jumped into your cart that you don’t really need. What can you wait to buy next week? What will you really use? What was completely frivolous that you can’t even believe you picked up off of the shelf? You can easily shave $5-$10 off your bill by this simple practice.
What about you? What are three basic grocery practices that keep you and your budget happy?
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