Dec 2, 20237 min read

How to Save Money on Groceries: A List of 101 Ideas

Updated: Jan 4

Plan Ahead: Create a meal plan for the week. Make a shopping list based on your meal plan to avoid impulse purchases.
Use Coupons and Deals: Clip coupons from newspapers, magazines, or online sources. Check for digital coupons or loyalty programs offered by grocery stores.
Buy Generic Brands: Generic/store brands often cost less than name brands and can be of similar quality.
Shop at Discount Stores: Explore discount grocery stores or warehouse clubs for lower prices.
Buy in Bulk: Purchase non-perishable items in bulk to get a lower per-unit price.
Compare Prices: Compare prices of items across different stores to find the best deals.
Use Cashback or Rewards Apps: Use cashback apps or loyalty programs to earn rewards on grocery purchases.
Shop Seasonally: Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season for lower prices and better freshness.
Avoid Prepared Foods: Pre-cut or pre-packaged foods tend to be more expensive. Buy whole foods and prepare them yourself.
Join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture): Joining a CSA can provide fresh produce at a lower cost.
Utilize Frozen Foods: Frozen fruits and vegetables can be cheaper than fresh and have a longer shelf life.
Cook in Batches: Cook larger portions and freeze the leftovers for later meals.
Utilize Leftovers: Repurpose leftovers into new meals to avoid food waste.
1. Related: 3 Fast and Easy Recipes for Leftovers
Use Loyalty Cards: Take advantage of loyalty cards or membership discounts offered by stores.
Avoid Shopping Hungry: Shopping while hungry can lead to impulse buying. Eat before you shop!
Buy Whole Foods: Whole grains, beans, and legumes are usually cheaper and healthier than processed foods.
Grow Your Own Produce: If possible, start a small garden to grow some of your own fruits and vegetables.
Limit Meat Purchases: Meat tends to be expensive. Reduce meat consumption or opt for cheaper cuts.
Use Apps for Price Comparison: Use apps that compare prices across different stores to find the best deals.
Purchase Long-Lasting Staples: Stock up on items like rice, pasta, and canned goods that have a long shelf life.
Utilize Sales Flyers: Check weekly sales flyers to plan your shopping around discounts.
Avoid Bottled Water: Invest in a water filter to save money on bottled water.
Make Your Own Snacks: Homemade snacks like granola bars or popcorn can be cheaper than store-bought ones.
Shop at Farmer's Markets: Farmer's markets can offer fresh produce at competitive prices.
Use Cashback Credit Cards: Use credit cards that offer cashback or rewards for grocery purchases.
Shop Online: Some online retailers offer competitive prices and discounts on groceries.
Skip Specialty Items: Avoid buying specialty ingredients that you won't use frequently.
Use Canned or Dried Beans: Canned or dried beans are cheaper than pre-cooked ones and are versatile.
Opt for Store-Brand Spices: Store-brand spices often have similar quality to name brands but cost less.
Utilize Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs offered by grocery stores for additional discounts.
Monitor Unit Prices: Compare the unit price (price per ounce, pound, etc.) to get the best value.
DIY Cleaning Supplies: Make your own cleaning supplies using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
Shop at Ethnic Grocery Stores: Ethnic stores often offer cheaper prices on spices, produce, and specialty items.
Use Reusable Shopping Bags: Some stores offer discounts for bringing your own bags.
Meal Prep: Prepare meals in advance to avoid ordering takeout or eating out.
Use Cash-Back Grocery Apps: Apps that offer cash back on grocery purchases can help you save.
Utilize Loyalty Points: Redeem accumulated loyalty points for discounts or free items.
Limit Impulse Buys: Stick to your shopping list and avoid buying items you don't need.
Purchase Whole Chickens: Whole chickens are often cheaper per pound than pre-cut pieces.
Opt for Frozen Seafood: Frozen seafood can be cheaper than fresh and can be just as good.
Buy Cheese in Bulk: Purchase blocks of cheese and shred or slice it yourself to save money.
Check Clearance Sections: Clearance sections often have discounted items nearing their expiration date.
Make a Price Book: Keep track of prices to know when items are on sale and what a good price is.
Utilize Cash-Back Grocery Receipt Apps: Apps that give cash back for uploading grocery receipts can save you money.
Avoid Buying Beverages: Stick to water or make your own beverages to avoid spending on sodas or juices.
Shop Early or Late: Some stores discount perishable items towards the end of the day.
Participate in Referral Programs: Refer friends to loyalty programs that offer rewards for referrals.
Shop Less Frequently: Minimize grocery shopping trips to avoid impulse purchases.
Check Perishables Before Purchase: Check fruits, vegetables, and other perishables for freshness before buying.
DIY Bread and Baked Goods: Baking your own bread and treats can be cheaper than buying them.
Utilize Meat Alternatives: Substitute some meals with plant-based protein sources like beans or tofu.
Shop Alone: Shopping alone can help you focus and stick to your list, avoiding unnecessary purchases.
Buy Whole Fruits and Vegetables: Pre-cut produce is convenient but often more expensive. Buy whole and prep at home.
Use the Freezer: Freeze leftovers, excess produce, and meals to avoid waste.
Shop for Items Near Expiration: Some stores offer discounts on products near their expiration date.
Use Up What You Have: Check your pantry and fridge before shopping to avoid buying duplicates.
Avoid Single-Serve Items: Single-serving snacks or meals tend to be more expensive per portion.
DIY Baby Food: Make your own baby food using fresh produce to save on expensive jars or pouches.
Stock Up During Sales: When non-perishable items go on sale, buy in bulk to save in the long run.
Avoid Pre-Marinated Meats: Buying plain cuts of meat and marinating them at home is cheaper.
Use a Slow Cooker: Slow cookers can turn cheaper cuts of meat into delicious meals.
1. Related: How to Make 2 Smoked Beef Brisket Suppers that Sizzle
Reduce Food Waste: Use leftovers creatively and store food properly to extend its shelf life.
Buy Whole Grains in Bulk: Whole grains like rice, quinoa, and oats are cheaper when bought in larger quantities.
Avoid Convenience Packs: Pre-portioned items cost more than buying in larger quantities and dividing them yourself.
Utilize the Salad Bar Wisely: Some grocery stores have salad bars where you can buy small quantities of specific items.
Learn to Preserve Food: Learn basic food preservation techniques like canning or pickling.
Use Cooking Scraps: Vegetable scraps can be used to make homemade stock or broth.
Make Your Own Sauces and Dressings: Homemade sauces and dressings can be cheaper and healthier than store-bought ones.
Buy Cheaper Cuts of Meat: Cheaper cuts of meat can be just as tasty when prepared correctly.
Avoid Individual Snack Packs: Buy larger packages and portion them out yourself to save money.
Look for Manager's Specials: Manager's specials or clearance items offer discounts on various products.
Use Cash-Back Credit Cards: Credit cards that offer cash back or rewards on grocery purchases can add up savings.
Opt for Store-Brand Paper Products: Store-brand paper towels and toilet paper are often cheaper than name brands.
Buy Whole Chickens Instead of Parts: Whole chickens are usually cheaper per pound than individual parts.
Avoid Disposable Products: Use reusable containers and bags instead of disposable ones.
Learn Basic Cooking Skills: Basic cooking skills can help you create meals from scratch, saving money on pre-made items.
Shop in Bulk With Others: Consider bulk buying with friends or family and splitting the cost.
Use Upcycled Food: Use leftover ingredients creatively to make new meals.
Join a Food Co-op: Food co-ops often offer discounts on bulk purchases.
Use Price Protection Policies: Some stores offer price protection, allowing you to get a refund if an item goes on sale shortly after you buy it.
Avoid Buying Non-Food Items at the Grocery Store: Non-food items like cleaning supplies or toiletries tend to be pricier at grocery stores.
Use a Shopping List App: Apps that organize shopping lists and compare prices can help you stick to a budget.
Use Cash-Back Browser Extensions: Browser extensions can help you find deals and offer cash back on online grocery purchases.
Opt for Basic Ingredients: Basic ingredients can be used in multiple recipes, providing more value for your money.
Shop After Holidays: Stock up on holiday-themed items when they go on clearance after the holiday has passed.
Use Your Freezer Efficiently: Freeze bread, meat, and other perishables to extend their shelf life.
Purchase Whole Foods with Edible Peels: Fruits and vegetables with edible peels can save time and money on preparation.
Compare Per-Unit Prices: Pay attention to the cost per ounce or pound to get the best deal.
Cook from Scratch: Making meals from scratch is often cheaper than buying pre-made items.
Opt for No-Name Cleaning Products: Generic or store-brand cleaning products can be just as effective as name brands but cheaper.
Skip the Small Bottled Condiments: Condiments in larger containers are typically cheaper than individual packets or smaller bottles.
Use a Slow Cooker or Pressure Cooker: Cooking with appliances like a slow cooker or pressure cooker can save energy and money.
Practice Portion Control: Serve appropriate portions to reduce waste and stretch your ingredients further.
Avoid Buying Pre-Packaged Salad Kits: Buying individual salad ingredients is often cheaper than pre-packaged kits.
Utilize Discount Codes for Online Shopping: Look for discount codes or promotions when shopping for groceries online.
Skip the Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables: Buying whole fruits and vegetables is usually cheaper than pre-cut options.
Use Leftover Ingredients: Plan meals around ingredients you already have to reduce waste.
1. Related: 3 Fast and Easy Recipes for Leftovers
Avoid Convenience Stores: Convenience stores often have higher prices than grocery stores.
Make Your Own Coffee: Brewing coffee at home is cheaper than buying it from cafes.
Use Meat Alternatives: Incorporate more plant-based protein sources into your diet to save on meat costs.
Monitor Sales Cycles: Learn when certain items typically go on sale and stock up during those times.