Raise your hand if this has ever happened to you before. You open the refrigerator and suddenly everything has disappeared. The shelves are collecting cobwebs and you know you need to go back again. But the last time you hit the grocery store you found yourself shocked at the check out. You overspent and had no idea what you even bought. It’s time for you to stop wasting so much more in the grocery store.
1. Know Your Store
Retail land mines await down every aisle at the grocery store. If you haven’t already, you need to up your game when it comes to knowing the lay of the land where you shop. Become at an expert at what’s located where and areas you need to avoid. If your store provides too many temptations for non-food items (hello Red Bullseye store for me), then you need to consider checking out an alternative. One of the reasons I became such an ALDI super fan was its simple layout and lack of extras. I can’t buy a new outfit or pair of shoes there. I can get what I need – groceries.
Never shopped ALDI before? Check out: The Best Ways to Save Money at ALDI
2. Use a Strategic Targeted List
You never get where you want in life without a written plan. You wouldn’t want a pilot to take to the skies without a flight plan. You won’t be successful at marathon running without a training schedule. When grocery shopping, you must shop with a list. Roaming the aisles without one is just asking for the store to take more of your money than necessary. I typically build my grocery list while meal planning. And I use this FREE printable meal planner to write down both my plan and my grocery lists. Typically I like to list items in order of where I find them in the store to help organize my trip.
Want help meal planning? Read: How to Meal Plan Effectively and check out my Aldi Meal Plans.
3. Get App-y
Almost every grocery store has its own unique app. If you have a smart phone, you need to check out your favorite stores’ options. From helping you manage your grocery list to seeing what’s on sale, you’re certain to save more money and stay focused when shopping if you download the app. And some stores have special coupon apps that let you “clip” savings as you literally place items into your cart. I never shop at Target without accessing Cartwheel or at Meijer without rocking mPerks. Walmart’s Savings Catcher app guarantees you get the best prices in town on whatever you’re purchasing.
And there are plenty of great third party apps, too. I love Shopkicks that collects rewards points or “kicks” simply for walking into the store or when you scan select items. ibotta is a cash back app that works like a rebate when you scan your grocery store receipt. Bottom line, you need to do some research when it comes to your store and its apps.
Want to learn more? Read: The Best Digital Coupon Programs
4. Start Using Online Options
Amazon has its new Prime Now Program that delivers groceries a decent rate. By the way, use the code 10PRIMENOW to get $10 off your first order if you’ve never used it before. Kroger’s ClickList has taken the Indianapolis area by storm. Peapod and Green Bean Delivery have both been around for quite some time. Especially if you’re inclined to make in store impulse purchases, online grocery shopping just might be for you. Whenever possible, search for coupon codes to increase your savings and be vigilant in your shopping to make sure you don’t waste cash but you really can save money using services like these.
Need more grocery shopping tips? Check out: 15 Grocery Items to Buy at the Beginning of Every Month
5. Set a Time Limit
Some of us have a problem overspending at the store simply because we hang out there way too long. You need to be intentional about the window of time you’re spending in the store. Either go to the grocery store during a set window of time or even set a timer while you’re there to remain on track. Don’t spend too much money or time the next time you shop!
Still need more ideas? Read: Grocery Shopping Tips for Real People
I have an entire set of rules I set for myself when it comes to grocery shopping. You can even print my Grocery Store 10 Commandments. Knowing your limits is half the battle and following through with these great hacks can help you save every time you hit the store!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
I’ve never thought of giving myself a time-limit. Great idea!
I have to or I just wander around. Many times, I plan to go at a time when I have something else to do so that I’m forced to move along. The more time you spend, the more money you spend. 🙂
So true!