With prices going up on just about everything, saving money on groceries has never felt more urgent—or more doable. Whether you’re feeding a family or just shopping for yourself, a few smart strategies can make a big difference in your weekly bill and help you cut down on food waste. Here are some practical tips inspired by Real Simple that are easy to work into your routine:
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Go Frozen with Produce
Frozen fruits and veggies are often cheaper and just as nutritious. Plus, they last longer and help reduce waste. -
Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time
A little planning goes a long way. Make a meal plan before you shop so you’re only buying what you need. -
Try the 6-to-1 Rule
This method keeps your cart balanced: six veggies, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces or spreads, and one fun food to try. -
Take Inventory Before You Shop
Check your fridge and pantry first. You might already have what you need—or something close. -
Buy What’s In Season
Seasonal produce is often fresher, tastier, and cheaper. -
Visit the Farmer’s Market
You can often find great deals on fresh produce, especially toward the end of the day when sellers are looking to offload inventory. -
Use Rewards and Loyalty Programs
Many stores offer discounts, points, or cash back for signing up. It adds up over time. -
Think Before You Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can save money—if you’re actually going to use it all. Otherwise, it’s just money (and food) down the drain. -
Check for Sales and Use Coupons
Old-school but effective. Keep an eye out for deals, and pair them with coupons when you can. -
Skip the Pre-Packaged Stuff
Pre-cut fruit, shredded cheese, and bagged salads are convenient but more expensive. Doing it yourself takes a little more time, but you’ll save money. -
Be Smart with Meat Purchases
Buy family packs and portion them out at home, or choose cheaper cuts that can be slow-cooked or marinated for great flavor. -
Cut Back on Food Waste
Make leftovers part of your plan. Store food properly, and get creative with odds and ends before they go bad.
Saving at the grocery store doesn’t have to mean cutting back—it just means shopping smarter. Try a few of these tips and see how much you can shave off your next bill.
