With gas prices rising, people are trying to find a ways to save money anywhere they can. Grocery shopping is something that just about everyone has to do therefore; it makes sense to find the best way to save money while doing it. Here are a few suggestions on how to save money at the grocery store:
Use Reusable Grocery Bags
Reusable grocery bags not only reduce the trash normally generated from using plastic disposable grocery bags, they add a few pennies back into the consumer's pocket. Many grocery stores offer a rebate of anywhere from two cents to five cents per grocery bags used.
If a consumers is shopping for a large family, using reusable grocery bags can realize a rebate of anywhere from 25 to 50 cents per shopping trip (if the shopper uses 5 to 10 bags). It may not sound like much, but with the cost of gas rising a few pennies per gallon each day, shoppers can help to defray the per-gallon price increase.
In addition to saving a few pennies and saving the environment, reusable bags makes shopping more efficient. The reusable bags are larger and sturdier. Consumers can fit more products per bag, thus making fewer trips back and fort from the car to the house (Although, that could be good and bad. For some consumers, bringing in the groceries inside is the only form of exercise they get).
Cook From Scratch
Many people believe it takes a lot longer to cook from scratch than to buy the quick processed foods. It may take longer, but it's healthier and more economical. Consumers have to make a decision whether it is more important for them to save time or money.
Buying high-priced, highly processed products may give the consumer a little more time when it comes to preparing a meal, but it does not save them much money. For a fraction of the cost of the highly priced fast food item, one can create a healthier more nutritional meal alternative. It takes a little planning, but it can be done.
Use Coupons and Review On-Line Circulars
Coupons sometimes serve as a double-edged sword. Many shoppers armed with an envelope full of coupons buy products that they had no intent in buying. However, just because they have a coupon they bought it. Coupons are only beneficial when they are used for items that a household commonly uses. .
In addition to shopping with coupons, consumers should look at the grocery store's online circulars. Sometimes stores offer sale items that are only available via the site's online circular.
Consolidate Trips and Plan Ahead
It's time for a collective improvement in memory. For those who are memory-challenged, keep a list in a prominent location in the house where each family member can write items needed. Gone are the days of several spur of the moment store runs to pick up forgotten items.
It all comes down to planning. In order to save money, consumers have to take a little more time to pre-plan the trip to the grocery store. A little planning on the front end will save a few dollars on the back end.
For more money saving tips, visit The Dollar Fights Back blog or the Household Tips section of Tidbits & Stuff.com.
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