50 Ways and Tips to Save You Money on Your Grocery Bill

Earlier I posted 25 Ways I Save Money and that had me thinking about other areas in my life I slash down the ugly expense monster and bring back more money in hopes that other people can benefit from this list as well. This list has helped me save 30% or more on my grocery bill.

1. Whiz in for the loss leaders and leave.
2. Shop during off-peak hours to avoid waiting in long lines
3. When an item in not in stock always ask for a rain check
4. When an item you use often goes on sale or hits a rock-bottom price stock up
5. Thaw your meat ahead of time-this prevents you from rushing out to buy something to eat.
6. Don’t shop on an empty stomach because everything looks good
7. Plan a budget and stick to it. The cash only envelope system is a very effective method.
8. Find a similar recipe for meals you like to cook that require less ingredients
9. Make a list and only buy what is listed
10. Bring a calculator and figure out price per ounce. Ex: If you are trying to decide between a 15 ounce can of beans versus a 32 ounce can of beans, take the total price of the small can then divide that by the number of ounces in the can. Do this with both cans and the smallest per-unit price is the better value.

11. Invest in a freezer to store bulk items like fruits, meats, and prepared meals or leftovers. This is an alternative place to keep items you have stockpiled from rock-bottom prices.
12. Take advantage of online freebies. Many merchants give out free samples of razors , shampoo, contact lens, and swiffer dusters. This is also a great way to try out a new product.
13. Shop around to a few stores. The stores are less than 2 miles a part for me so it isn’t a big deal.
14. Buy cheaper cuts of meat like flank steak and cook them long and slow to make them tender or marinate them overnight in Italian dressing. The vinegar tenderizes the meat.
15. Buy items off-season and post-holiday.
16. Create a price diary. (This takes time and effort). Begin by looking up old grocery receipts, list each item, the best price for that item, and the stores it is located. This way you can decide if an item is at a rock-bottom price and you should stock up or use your coupons. You can even keep track of price trends.
17. Plant an herb or vegetable garden. The first time I picked a tomato from our garden and ate it, I couldn’t believe how delicious it tasted!
18. First shop at the store with the best loss-leaders then shop at the store with the best prices overall.
20. Some stores give you the item for free if it is price-scanned wrong so keep track of the prices on the screen.
21. If you are a great budgeter and have a card rewards program, use your check or credit card to purchase groceries.
22. Double the savings by using the store and the manufacturer’s coupon. It is better to use coupons when you can double or triple the savings.
23. Read your coupons carefully to make sure you understand the terms and limitations
24. Shop alone. Other people will want to add more to the list.
25. Plan your meals around what is on sale on the flyer ads.
26. Invest in a water filter or a 5 gallon to save money on bottled water.
27. Understand the store layout. Stores change their layouts and rearrange to tempt you to buy more. Know where each item is located. When you shop that aisle go down the list and mark them off. This saves time and steers clear from impulse purchases.
28. Swap or trade grocery coupons with a friend
29. Make friends with the butcher and cashiers to find out when the sales for meat and other items are.

I’ve moved my blog to Dizzy Diva Mama where you can view and access the remaining 20 tips and ways to save you money on your bill and more.