Beginners Guide to Grocery Shopping on a Budget
I know it can be overwhelming to figure out what grocery items are best to get at which grocery stores.
That is why I have put together a simple guide for you to download. It’s my budget friendly grocery shopping list. Here is what I aim to get at the bulk grocery stores like Costco vs. what I get from farmers markets or other smaller grocery stores like Sprouts or Trader Joe’s!
Jazz's Money Saving Tricks!
Saving money on groceries is all about strategy. Here are my top money-saving tips to help you keep your food costs down without sacrificing quality.
Take advantage of the weekly deals. Most grocery stores feature a flyer or app where you can see what’s on sale! This way, you can supplement your groceries with what’s on sale. I always look at the weekly ads when curating my weekly shopping lists. Utilizing these deals is a great way to save on food costs.
Avoid grocery shopping on an empty stomach. Don’t go to the grocery store hungry. This is the simplest trick in the book. When you’re hungry, you’ll come home with unnecessary items! Go after a big meal to avoid impulse purchases that can blow your grocery budget.
Keep key considerations in mind when shopping at Costco. When buying at Costco, remember these are all bulk items, so make sure you have room for them. If it is fresh, make sure you can get through them fast enough. Otherwise, it’ll go to waste! This would defeat the purpose of buying in bulk at a discounted cost. Also, keep an eye on the unit price to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Reduce food waste by freezing items. Freeze what is going bad! Did you buy peaches and they are going bad? Just chop them up and freeze them. You can use them in smoothies! The same goes for spinach or avocado. Reducing food waste is not only eco-friendly but also a good idea for saving money.
Download My FREE Grocery Guide Below!
What to Buy at Costco
Costco is a great place for buying in bulk, but it’s essential to be mindful of what you purchase to avoid waste. Here are my go-to items at Costco:
Frozen Organic Fruit
Frozen strawberries
Frozen blueberries
Frozen acai packets
Frozen avocado (available at some locations)
Frozen cherries
Frozen pineapple
Frozen Organic Vegetables
Frozen riced cauliflower
Frozen Normandy Vegetables
Frozen broccoli florets
Organic Fruit
Organic berries (not always in season)
Organic tomato
Organic apples
Organic bananas
Avocados
Organic Vegetables
Organic baby spinach
Organic spring mix
Organic cucumber
Organic Dairy/Meat
Organic grass fed ground beef
Organic chicken breast or thigh
Organic Plain Greek Yogurt (Kirkland brand)
Organic eggs
Pantry Staples
Organic peanut butter
Organic almond butter
Walnuts
Almonds
Pecans
Chia seeds
Hemp hearts
Rao’s marinara sauce
Spices
Avocado oil
Olive oil
What to Buy at Smaller Grocery Stores
I do my weekly shopping from non-bulk grocery stores to supplement what I have. I am mindful of how much of something I need. This list is great for your favorite local grocery store or farmers market. I love shopping at Sprouts Farmers Market and Trader Joe’s!
Organic Produce
Organic fresh herbs
Organic seasonal veggies or fruits
Organic Dairy/Meat
Pasture raised eggs
Organic Good Culture cottage cheese
Pantry Staples
Organic oats (you want to make sure these are organic)
Good quality local bread (often featured)
How Can I Make the Most of My Grocery Shopping Experience?
Utilize Loyalty Programs
Most grocery stores offer loyalty programs that can help you save on your monthly grocery bill. These programs often provide discounts, coupons, and sometimes even cash back on purchases. Signing up for store loyalty cards is an easy way to reduce your grocery expenses.Pay Attention to Sales and Discounts
Always be on the lookout for sales and discounts. Grocery store prices can vary, and buying items on sale is a great way to save money. Make sure to compare the sale price to the regular price to ensure you're getting a good deal.Avoid Impulse Buys
One of the best ways to stick to your grocery budget is to avoid impulse buys. Make a shopping list and stick to it. This helps prevent adding extra items to your shopping cart that you don't really need.Check Unit Prices
Checking the unit price is a common technique among savvy shoppers. It helps you compare the cost of products regardless of their package size, ensuring you get the lowest price per unit.
What Are Some Tips for Shopping at Wholesale Clubs?
Shopping at wholesale clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club can be a great way to save money if done correctly. Here are a few tips:
Buy in Bulk When It Makes Sense
Bulk buying can save you money, but only if you can use the large quantities before they spoil. Focus on items with a long shelf life or those you use frequently.Freeze Extra Items
If you buy more than you can use immediately, consider freezing extra items for later use. This works well for meats, bread, and certain vegetables.Compare Prices with Local Stores
Sometimes, wholesale clubs have higher prices on certain items compared to local grocery stores. Always compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal.
How Can I Reduce My Monthly Grocery Bill?
Reducing your monthly grocery bill requires a combination of smart shopping habits and careful planning.
Meal Planning and Preparation
Meal planning is a great way to control your grocery spending. By planning your meals in advance, you can create a precise shopping list and avoid buying unnecessary items. Meal prep also helps you stick to your budget by reducing the temptation to eat out.Buy Store Brands
Store brands or generic products are usually cheaper than name brands and often of comparable quality. Opting for these can significantly lower your grocery costs.Shop Seasonal and Local
Shopping for seasonal produce at your local grocery store or farmers market can save you money. Seasonal items are usually cheaper and fresher.
Key Considerations for Food Costs and Shelf Life
Be Mindful of Expiration Dates
Checking expiration dates on food items is crucial to avoid food waste. Buying products with longer shelf lives ensures you have enough time to use them before they go bad.Understand the Cost of Food
Food prices fluctuate based on various factors, including seasonality and supply chain issues. Being aware of these changes can help you adjust your shopping habits to maintain a consistent food budget.
Is Using a Credit Card for Grocery Shopping a Good Idea?
Using a credit card for groceries can be beneficial if managed responsibly.
Benefits of Using a Credit Card
Using a credit card can provide rewards, cash back, and purchase protection. It’s a good idea to use a card with no annual fee and one that offers rewards on grocery purchases.Be Cautious with Spending
While credit cards offer benefits, it’s important to avoid overspending. Stick to your budget to prevent accumulating debt. Paying off your balance in full each month can help improve your credit score.
What Are Some Ways to Shop Smart?
Shopping smart is about making informed decisions that benefit your wallet and well-being. Here are some final tips:
Compare Prices
Comparing prices across different stores and brands ensures you get the best value for your money. Don’t hesitate to shop at different stores to find the best deals.Avoid Pre-Packaged Foods
Pre-packaged foods are often more expensive and less healthy than their fresh counterparts. Opt for whole foods and fresh fruits to maximize nutritional value and savings.Utilize Financial Products
Consider using financial products like savings accounts and pre-qualified offers to manage your grocery budget effectively. These tools can help you save extra money and plan better for your monthly grocery expenses.
Have a Question? Drop It Below!
Feel free to ask me anything about grocery shopping on a budget! I'm here to help. Whether you need advice on creating a shopping list, finding the best deals, or managing your food budget, don't hesitate to reach out.
By following these tips and strategies, you can become a savvy shopper and make the most of your grocery budget. Happy shopping!
