Inflation has increased costs for most grocery items, making shopping expensive and time-consuming for many. People with busy lifestyles need solutions that help them save money and manage their time more efficiently. We have 10 tips that might help.

10 grocery shopping tips.

Budget: A budget is essential in managing and tracking shopping expenses and can limit purchasing items you don’t need. You can also use your budget to target and eliminate negative spending habits. The key to having a budget that works is to ensure that you stick to it.

Use your receipts wisely: Put items and their prices from your receipts into a spreadsheet. You can use this spreadsheet to plan your grocery budget. If you shop at two supermarkets, the spreadsheet can help when comparing prices on items you buy regularly to see where you can save.

Make a list: Compile a shopping list of the grocery items you need so you know what to purchase. Also, do meal planning to help you focus on your needs at the store. Your list can prevent overspending and allow you to manage your time better.

Organise your grocery list by aisle: You can ease through shopping by organising your list by shopping aisle to find the things you need quickly. You can use this method easily when regularly shopping at the same supermarket.

Bring your grocery bags: Some supermarkets no longer offer grocery bags to customers; you must purchase them. By taking your reusable bags, you help the environment and save money you would use for bags to carry your groceries.

Look for sales and specials: Check if some items you use regularly are on sale and bulk buy if needed. Some supermarkets have discounts aimed at getting you to try new products. You might find a more affordable option for one of your favourites.

Ask about customer loyalty programmes: A discount card or a membership programme can give you access to some deals. Most loyalty cards let you earn points for grocery purchases when you shop. Remember to take the card with you, or you might miss out on getting those points.

Don’t get carried away with sale items: Sale items are often quite attractive but can distract you from sticking to your budget. Also, some sale items can be more expensive if it is a different brand than the one you would typically purchase. It would be best to compare prices on sale items to prevent spending more.

Avoid frozen dinners: Ready-made meals are tempting after a long day but significantly more expensive than cooking from scratch. There are many meal recipes online with fewer ingredients and a short cooking time that are more nutritious.

Purchase fruits and vegetables in season: Fruits and vegetables in season are likely more affordable than those not in season. Ensure you purchase what you can eat weekly to avoid wasting money from having to throw out spoiled produce.

We hope these tips help. If you enjoyed this article, please use the Articles tab on Find Yello for more.

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Sources: Taste of Home, Zen Habits, Cleveland Clinic, and American Heart Association.