Previous | Turning your hobby into a source of income Next | How to safely use digital banking
June 19, 2024 / Lisa Hogue
How to save money at the grocery store

How to save money at the grocery store

Saving money on groceries is a skill that can significantly impact your budget. With a strategic approach, you can trim your expenses without sacrificing the quality of your meals.

Here are some tips to help you become a more economical shopper:

  • Plan ahead. Before setting foot in the grocery store, make a list of items you need. Stick to your list to avoid impulse purchases, which can quickly inflate your bill.
  • Utilize coupons and deals. Many grocery stores offer loyalty programs that provide discounts or points for future savings. Take advantage of coupons, sales, and promotions, especially for non-perishable items that you use regularly.
  • Compare prices. Take the time to compare prices, especially for staple items and frequently purchased goods. Consider shopping at discount stores or buying generic brands, which are often cheaper than name brands but of comparable quality.
  • Buy in bulk. Bulk buying can be cost-effective for items that have a long shelf life and that you use frequently, such as rice, pasta, and canned goods. However, be cautious with perishable items, as buying in bulk can lead to waste if you’re unable to use them before they spoil.Graphic of a woman produce shopping with a child in the shopping cart.
  • Shop seasonally. Seasonal produce is often cheaper and fresher than out-of-season varieties. Plan your meals around seasonal ingredients to take advantage of lower prices and better quality. Consider buying extra during peak seasons and preserving them through freezing, canning, or drying.
  • Limit convenience foods. Pre-packaged and convenience foods might save you time, but they often come with a higher price tag. Choose whole foods and ingredients that you can prepare yourself, as they tend to be more budget-friendly and healthier.
  • Minimize food waste. According to studies, a significant portion of household budgets is wasted on food that ends up in the trash. To reduce waste, plan meals that use ingredients efficiently, store perishables properly to extend their freshness, and repurpose leftovers into new dishes.
  • Consider various shopping methods. Explore shopping options like farmers markets, co-ops, or online grocery delivery services. These alternatives might offer competitive prices and unique selections, allowing you to save money while supporting local businesses.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively trim your grocery expenses without compromising on the quality and variety of your meals. With careful planning and mindful spending habits, you’ll soon see significant savings on your grocery bill.

This article was drafted with the aid of AI. Additional content, edits for accuracy, and industry expertise by Lisa Hogue, manager of F&M Trust’s Philadelphia Avenue and Lincoln Way East community offices.

Recent Articles
How to safely use digital banking
How to safely use digital banking

How to safely use digital banking

October 03, 2024 / Ray Wills

It’s never too early to save for the holidays
It’s never too early to save for the holidays

It’s never too early to save for the holidays

September 26, 2024 / Pheonix Gilbert

How to set SMART financial goals
How to set SMART financial goals

How to set SMART financial goals

September 19, 2024 / Pheonix Gilbert

Why it’s important to invest financially early in your career
Why it’s important to invest financially early in your career

Why it’s important to invest financially early in your career

September 05, 2024 / Warren Hurt

Is it a good idea to pay off my mortgage early?
Is it a good idea to pay off my mortgage early?

Is it a good idea to pay off my mortgage early?

August 22, 2024 / Erin Sunday

How to save on back-to-school shopping
How to save on back-to-school shopping

How to save on back-to-school shopping

August 15, 2024 / Megan Brindle

Avoiding the pitfalls of debt and overusing credit
Avoiding the pitfalls of debt and overusing credit

Avoiding the pitfalls of debt and overusing credit

August 08, 2024 / Dave Winters

Teaching children to save money
Teaching children to save money

Teaching children to save money

July 24, 2024 / Mary Kate Mumper

What to consider when weighing a job offer
What to consider when weighing a job offer

What to consider when weighing a job offer

July 17, 2024 / Levi Crouse

Join our e-newsletter

Sign up for our e-newsletter to get new content each month.

NOTICE: YOU ARE LEAVING F&M TRUST!

You are now leaving the F&M Trust website. Links to third-party sites are provided for your convenience. Such sites are not within our control and may not follow the same privacy, security or accessibility standards as ours. F&M Trust neither endorses nor guarantees offerings of the third-party providers, nor is F&M Trust responsible for the security, content or availability of third-party sites, their partners or advertisers.