How to Budget Groceries: 6 Easy Tips

I sit down a few days before and review all the store ads to see what is on sale. I make a list and stick with it and don’t buy anything unless I actually need it & will use it. I usually go to several stores (most staples at Aldi, produce at Sprouts, bread & frozen fish at Trader Joe’s, etc). I use both store & manufacturers coupons but again, only if I need the product. I also read ingredient labels…some little known pet foods may be healthier & yet much cheaper than big name brands…same with cereals, etc.  I often choose frozen organic fruit instead of fresh produce…it may cost a bit more sometimes, but I find there’s less waste from spoilage & the vitamin content is better since it’s frozen when fresh. I don’t get fast food & it’s very rare that I eat out. I cook enough for several meals and freeze what I don’t eat.

Buy your beer by the keg instead of the six pack.

I buy only organic food and I buy at Amazon fresh and Whole Foods, which deliver right at my door, so there’s no need running anywhere, save gas and time. When, I start my list, I add what I plan to eat in a few weeks. I have found that if you wait a week, items go on sale and then others might run out but I always look at the bright side- try a new recipe with what you can buy.

  Vegetables are always fresh and have found out prices are way lower than other stores.

With care, bulk buying of flour on sale can save time and money. Remember to break down larger amounts into small storage quantities when you get home. For example, I buy 20 or 50 lb at a time and rebag into 5 lb units and store them in a large airtight, opaque container in the pantry. 

With today's uncontrollable inflation and package sizes shrinking dramatically I have had to resort to one meal every other day. My four footed assistant gets fed better than I do. Wish my state had real food banks. 

i don't really have a budget when i go shopping. what i do is if i see something i like i grab it & go on. every so often i would grab an item & spend 3 or so minutes trying to decide weather i want it or not then in other areas i just have to have the will power to say no! i have to lay off. it's rare i lose the "battle".

@AARPRachelA  Excellent tips!  Thank you.  

I have learned that store brands are just as good as the name brand in most cases and are a lot cheaper.  Very rarely have I found a store brand that doesn't taste as good as the more expensive one.  Also if you watch the ads and plan your week's meals from them it will save you money.

I shop mainly regular grocery stores - not expensive Whole Foods, etc. I go about 3 x per week to check what’s been marked down for quick sale which occurs on off-peak days (Mon - Wed) - Real deals can be found on fruit, veg, and meat. I mainly buy what’s on sale and frequently the store brand.