10 Rules for Saving Big at the Grocery Store

One of the best ways to trim your household budget is to shop smart at the grocery store. The key to shopping smart is all about strategy! By applying my top ten basic rules for grocery shopping, you will see a direct impact on your spending.

1. Do not shop while hungry. This is good common sense.

2. Shop with a list prepared at home (not in the car on the back of an old receipt) and stick to it! Check your fridge, pantry and cupboards to make sure you are not forgetting something you need.

3. Know your target price points. This will vary by region and season. For example, the price to beat on a gallon of milk in my area is currently $2.00, same for a loaf of bread. Keep a notebook with price points if necessary.

4. Use Coupons: combine a coupon with a sale to save the most. Check the store fliers for sales and know their coupon policies.

5. Beware of product placement strategies on shelves and endcaps. The best deals are usually high or low on shelves, and not on the endcaps. Avoid large seasonal displays.

6. Eliminate brand loyalty. Be willing to try a variety of brands depending on what is the best value.

7. Find a great deal? Stock up! Since sales only come around every 8-12 weeks, buy enough to last you through the next one. We call this stockpiling.

8. Get in, get out. Studies have shown the more time you spend inside a store, the more money you will spend. Don’t dilly dally! Choose to shop early or late to avoid crowds.

9. Avoid impulse buys (see number 2). Especially at the checkout stand, where prices are inflated.

10. If possible, leave the kids at home. Enough said.

Apply these methods during each trip to the grocery store, and they will soon become habit. I can no longer shop without a list or my coupons, and my wallet thanks me!