18 Smart Hacks for Families to Save Hundreds on Groceries Each Year

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In a world where the cost of living is steadily increasing, the tally at the grocery store checkout often prompts a cringe. Despite the potential for grocery bills to escalate swiftly, a blend of savvy strategies and a dash of creativity can empower you to cut your grocery expenses in half without compromising the quality of your meals.

Here are some simple yet brilliant hacks that can help you save money on your groceries.

1. Compare Prices Between Different Stores

There can be considerable differences in prices between different stores. Therefore, if you want to reduce your grocery expenses, take the time to look around and compare the prices. Whether you make a trip to multiple shops or use flyers, apps, or other online resources to check the prices, try to find the best deals on the items you need.

2. Make a Shopping List

Before heading to the store, always make a shopping list with all the items you need. Then, once you are in the store, stick to your list (I know it’s hard, but at least try it!) and avoid picking up items that are not on it.

3. Choose Generic or Store Brand Products

Choosing generic or store-brand products instead of name brands can save you significant money at the end of the month. These products not only cost less but are often as good as the products of big brands. Thus, they’re totally worth trying!

4. Buy Frozen Fruits and Vegetables

Do your fruits and veggies often go bad in your fridge before you can eat them? If so, consider buying frozen over fresh to reduce your waste. Don’t worry; frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh produce, and they have a longer shelf life.

And let’s not forget that going frozen is typically the less expensive way to get your nutrients!

5. Set a Monthly Grocery Budget

If you want to avoid overspending, set a grocery budget for yourself each month. Knowing how much you can spend will help you resist temptation and make smarter decisions at the store.

6. Buy Items on Sale

You can easily cut your grocery bill in half by buying items on sale. However, make sure that you don’t buy unnecessary products just because they’re on sale. Focus on those items you need to purchase anyway, as your family regularly consumes them.

7. Take Advantage of Coupons

Coupons can be powerful tools when it comes to saving money on groceries. Although many people think that couponing means you have to spend entire days looking for coupons, let me assure you that it doesn’t! You can quickly find a few money-saving deals in newspapers (for example, the Sunday paper), flyers, or various online sites and apps.

8. Choose Seasonal Produce

Always purchase fruits and vegetables that are in season. They’re not only fresher and tastier than out-of-season produce, but they’re usually cheaper as well! For me, it’s a win-win!

9. Use Cashback Apps

Cashback apps provide a great way to cut your grocery costs. This is because when you use these apps, you get a predetermined amount of cash back on your everyday purchases. Plus, some cashback apps also offer additional coupons!

10. Buy in Bulk

Single-serve items are typically more expensive per unit when compared to bigger packages. Thus, if you want to lower your per-unit costs, opt for buying in bulk and then portion the items yourself at home.

11. Avoid Buying Pre-Cut Fruits and Veggies

While it may be more convenient to purchase pre-cut produce, keep in mind that these items often come with a premium price tag as well. Instead, consider buying traditional fruits and vegetables to cut yourself up. This will save you a significant amount of money! Plus, they taste fresher this way.

12. Use Your Own Reusable Grocery Bags

Rather than purchasing several plastic bags for your weekly grocery shopping (depending n where you live), take your own reusable grocery bags. This way, you not only save money but also reduce plastic waste!

13. Don’t Shop With An Empty Stomach

Going grocery shopping hungry is a bad idea as you’ll be more likely to make bad decisions because of your temporary cravings. To resist temptation and avoid overspending on your groceries, always eat something before entering the store.

14. Check the Expiration Dates

When buying food, especially perishable items, always check the expiration dates on the packaging. Purchasing products with longer shelf life will help you reduce food waste and, ultimately, get better value for your money.

15. Shop at Local Farmers’ Market

The produce found at local farmers’ markets is sometimes cheaper and fresher than what you can buy in the grocery store (again, depending on where you live). Plus, they’re often grown without pesticides, antibiotics, or any kind of genetic modification. Thus, they’re better choices for both your wallet and your health!

16. Grow Your Herbs at Home

Plant an herb garden in your backyard or on your kitchen windowsill, and grow your herbs at home. So you don’t need to spend money on store-bought herbs that often wilt in a few days.

17. Try Meal Planning

Take some time to think through what you could cook each day and create a weekly meal plan. Knowing exactly which meals you’ll be preparing during the week will give you peace of mind and help you reduce your expenditure on groceries.

18. Freeze Your Leftovers

Do you often cook too much food? Don’t throw it out! Simply freeze your leftovers and save them for future meals. You can either use them as they are or repurpose them into new dishes. Regardless of which one you choose, freezing leftovers will help you stretch your ingredients and save you from additional trips to the store. The same goes for fruits and veggies- these can go in the freezer for a smoothie or soup later on.

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