5 Tips to Save Money on Grocery Shopping

Our experts answer readers’ investing questions and write unbiased product reviews (here’s how we assess investing products). Paid non-client promotion: In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners. Our opinions are always our own.Inflation is causing Americans to spend $445 more per month on the same items compared to a few years ago, according to a Moody’s Analytics report. I have seen this myself when I go to the grocery store and buy five items … for $65.But there are steps you can take to lessen the impact. According to Hillary Seiler, founder of Financial Footwork, you have more control over your shopping and spending than you might think.Seiler helps consumers master their money and even works as a financial coach for 10 NFL teams. She shared four tips for saving money on groceries while prices are still high.Use coupons and check grocery store circulars to see what is on sale. According to Seiler, “Not only does using coupons and looking for discounts save you money, it also makes you more intentional about what you are buying, it makes you ask yourself, do I need this, does it make sense for my budget right now?” Seiler further advises using your supermarket’s app to maximize savings. You can sign up for free and clip digital coupons.”Before shopping, give yourself an hour and look at what is on sale and create a list or meal plan around what is on sale or the coupons you receive,” she says.Making a grocery list is just the first part. When you get to the store, stick to the list. This will help you avoid impulse buying items that seem like a good idea, but end up in the trash. You’ll have more money in your checking account if you just stick to the grocery list. Use the calculator on your phone and keep track of everything you put in your cart. If you keep a running total of groceries as you go, you will have a good estimate of what you will be spending before you get to checkout.I have been in line and seen the person ahead of me watching the numbers go up on the register with baited breath. Shopping your list and calculating your total as you shop will save yourself from any surprises. “In addition to keeping track of everything, also shop around for better pricing. If there are farmers markets in your area, check them out for fresh produce. They are typically going to be cheaper than the grocery store,” Seiler says. Another idea that may help is growing some of your own food, if your living arrangement allows for it.“We shouldn’t be stuck on the idea that we have to get everything from the grocery store. If you can grow some vegetables, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots and it’s easy to get started, this can cut what you are spending at the grocery store,” states Seiler.This last tip is one that we all can and should do before even making a shopping list. Look through your pantry (or fridge) and see what kinds of meals you can whip up with the ingredients you already have on hand.Why buy more groceries when there are perfectly good chicken drumsticks shoved in the back of your freezer and a few rice packets and cans of corn on the pantry shelves?”When you save money in these everyday areas, then you will have money for other financial moves,” Seiler told Business Insider.

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