The Family Wallet

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to curb your grocery spending? I mean, if you spend too much on clothing, you always have the option to just avoid clothing stores. Likewise, if gadgets are your weakness, you can just stay out of those types of stores.

Groceries, however, are a whole other story. You have to have groceries, don’t you? So you always have to face your temptation and go to the grocery store. So, in this instance, avoidance isn’t the way to control your spending. Fortunately there are other methods to keep your grocery spending in check.

Have a plan. It’s imperative that you have a list when you go to the grocery store. You don’t want to be swayed by fancy displays or new products. Having a list allows you to stay on task while you’re shopping. You can go in the store, get what you need, and get back out as quickly as possible.

Shop the sales ads. Be sure to take advantage of the specials that are advertised for your grocery stores each week. Stock up on items you use all the time while they’re offered at a great price, and then, drag them out of your pantry as you need them.

Use coupons. There’s a reason why you remember your mom clipping coupons when you were a kid. Regularly using coupons can allow you to take quite a chunk out of your grocery bills each week. For added savings, don’t forget to combine your coupon savings with store sales. You’ll be amazed at how much you can save.

Shop alone. I know it’s not fun to trek through the grocery store by yourself, but you’ll be much more focused if you don’t have little hands adding things to the cart when you’re not looking.

Skip non-grocery items. Sometimes it’s really tempting to pick up your laundry detergent or pain relievers while you’re at the grocery store. You’re probably thinking, “I’ll get to avoid the extra stop at Wal-mart by picking this up here.” While that may be true, you’ll also spend a lot more on that laundry soap. Stick to only buying groceries at the grocery store.

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Filed under: Food Expenses