How to Save at the Grocery Store without Coupons

I love to save money at the grocery store, when I shop. Using coupons is one way to save money, but it’s not the only way to save. My friend Tshanina, from Thrifty T’s Treasures, was nice enough to chat with me about her tips for saving money at the grocery store without coupons.

Can’t see the video, click here.

Here’s the tips written out, just in case you would prefer to read the tips instead of watching the video.

Tip #1 Grocery Shop with a Budget

It’s easy to overspend at the grocery store, when you don’t have a budget in mind. Be sure to set a budget amount before you leave to shop and stick to it. You might end up having to put a few things back to stay within your budget, but it’s best for your family in the long run not to overspend.

Tip #2 Make a List

This such a great tip. Knowing what you need to purchase and having a list before you enter the store can help you not only save money, but time too. If you don’t have a list you will be more likely to graze through the store and make more impulse purchases. Be sure to  make a list and stick to it.

Tip #3 Plan Your Menu

To save the most it’s best to plan your menu off the sales for that week. Before you shop take a quick look at the sales flyers and plan your meals from what you see on sale. You can save quite a bit by using this menu planning technique.

Tip #4 Stock Up on Sale Items

Each week the store has a few items on sale called, lost leaders. These are items that the store doesn’t make money on or is losing money when you purchase them. They are used to draw you into the store. When you see a great deal like a lost leader, be sure to stock up with any extra money you have in your grocery budget for the week.

Tip #5 Eat Before Shopping

Going to the grocery store when you are hungry can be a disaster. You’ll be so much more likely to purchase things that look good, instead of purchasing things you really need. Be sure to eat something before you shop.

Bonus Tip: I read recently that if you chew gum while shopping, you will buy less junk food. I think a good plan would be to eat something and then chew gum while you are shopping and see if it helps you cut down on junk food and stay within budget. I know it works for me.

Be sure to head over to Tshanina’s blog and check out some of these great posts,

Ways to Save Money

Saving at the Store Without Coupon

Why I stopped Collecting Newspaper Coupon Inserts

See all the posts in this series,