5 STEPS TO SAVING MONEY ON GROCERIES: AN EXTRA $60 A MONTH!

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I’m on a grocery budget just like many other people. When I created my budget, I budgeted enough for my family to eat well, but not filet mignon every night. I have three steps that I always do when it comes to going to the grocery store. I recently added two more that saved me $15 a week.

Here are my first three tips for how to stay on budget for your grocery shopping:

1. Make a list first. I know this is nothing new, but it amazes me how much more I spend if I don’t go with my list. Compile the list during the week so it isn’t a big chore to do when it’s time to go to the store. You also will avoid forgetting something which will cause another trip to the store.
2. Keep track of how much you are buying. This allows you to know when you are approaching your budgeted amount and gives you an opportunity to rethink any purchases that are putting you over the budget. Most phones have a calculator, so use your phone!
3. Keep your list items separate in the cart from your “want” items. Most people pick up things throughout the store that aren’t on the list. When you are over budget, it’s really easy to see what needs to go back if you’ve kept them separated.

Here are two more tips that could help you save up to $15 a week:

4. Coupons. I’m not talking about extreme couponing. Just take 15 minutes before you go to the store to look over the current ads. On your grocery list make a notation beside any item for which you have any store’s coupon or ad. This will help when you are checking out so you won’t miss any savings.
5. Remember, some stores do price matching. I don’t go from store to store to store to get the deals. I simply refer to my list when I check out, present the coupons and ads that apply, and the store honors any other store’s coupon or matches the advertised price.

With the $60 savings, my family may just get filet mignon tonight!