Consider choosing frozen food items when suitable. Frozen corn, peas, fish and many other items are cheaper than their fresh (non-frozen) counterparts because they have a longer shelf life.
Stores have to consider the losses that can be incurred with anything that is perishable, and build that into their profit margins.
With food costs soaring upward, everyone is looking to save money on groceries. A few thoughts.
Shop With A List
Think about what you need before you even venture out to the store. Consider snack items, as well as the week’s meals. Then, stick to the list!
Don’t Shop Hungry
Seems simple enough, but many of us fail to heed this advice. Eat a full meal before going grocery shopping. This will prevent many of the cravings which result in those impulsive purchases.
Leave The Kids At Home
Shopping is difficult with children. It’s natural for them to ask for items that aren’t needed, with no regard for the cost of those items.
Check The Sales And Bring The Coupons
This should go without saying, and is very much worth the effort.
Buy Generic
Generic and store brands should be used whenever possible. This is sometimes hit-or-miss, but you’ll discover enough non-brand name items to justify the savings even if you have to throw a few away. Many store brand items have a satisfaction guarantee so there is no risk.
So, maybe there is no such thing as a free lunch. But, you can certainly save a lot of money on lunches with very little effort.
If you purchase a lunch everyday at work, you’re just throwing money away. Assuming a $5 lunch - which would be very cheap in most areas - this alone is $25 per week. If your spouse is doing the same, $50 per week, or approximately $200 per month.
That’s a lot of money.
Making a sandwich at home to bring to work is far less expensive, and more likely far healthier.
If you don’t want to deal with making a sandwich first thing in the morning, canned lunch foods are quick and easy, and still far less expensive than buying lunch out everyday.
Better yet, bring in some of those leftovers from dinner. Then you will be closer to that elusive “free lunch” than ever before.
You can save hundreds - or even thousands - of dollars a year by shopping at lower-priced food stores.
Shop at stores known for lower prices. This varies by geographical location. Keep in mind, however, that not all products will be cheapest at those stores. For example, Walmart may have the lowest prices on bread, milk, produce and orange juice, but may have some of the highest prices on beer and eggs. Always compare, and when justified, shop at multiple stores, especially if there a located close to one another.
Likewise, convenience stores often charge the highest price.