Tips For Saving on Groceries in 2023

We are all starting to feel it more and more each time we unload our cart at the grocery store. Although things seem bleak (and expensive) I do have a few tips to help keep a few more dollars in your wallet. 

1. Plan and Stick to a Budget: Set a budget for your groceries and try your best to stick to it. Knowing how much you're willing to spend can help you make smarter choices while shopping. This budget binder can help, it’s a must have to keep me on track. 
2. Make a Shopping List: Plan your meals for the week and create a detailed shopping list based on the ingredients you need. Stick to the list to avoid impulse buying.
3. Shop Sales and Use Coupons: Keep an eye on sales, discounts, and coupons offered by grocery stores. Utilize apps or loyalty programs that offer discounts on items you regularly purchase.
4. Buy Generic or Store Brands: Store-brand products are often more affordable than their branded counterparts. In many cases, the quality is similar, allowing you to save money without compromising much on quality.
5. Buy in Bulk (for Non-Perishables): Purchasing items in bulk, especially non-perishable goods or those with a long shelf life, can often reduce the overall cost per unit.
6. Compare Prices: Compare prices between different stores. Some items might be cheaper in one store compared to another, so it's worth checking out multiple options. I love the app “Flipp” for this!
7. Avoid Impulse Purchases: Stick to your list and avoid buying items that you don't need immediately. Impulse purchases can significantly increase your grocery bill.
8. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs: Some credit cards and apps offer cashback or rewards for grocery purchases. Utilize these programs to earn discounts or cashback on your groceries. Some of my favorite cash back apps are Honey, Rakuten, and Ibotta. 
9. Utilize Frozen and Canned Foods: These items often have a longer shelf life and can be more cost-effective than fresh produce, especially when not in season.
10. Meal Prep and Cook at Home: Eating out or ordering takeout can be more expensive than preparing meals at home. Plan and prep meals in advance to reduce the temptation of dining out. This meal prep kit has everything you need to get started!
11. Reduce Food Waste: Plan your meals to use ingredients efficiently and store leftovers properly to prevent food waste. Consider freezing excess food for future use.
12. Grow Your Own Produce: If possible, consider growing herbs, fruits, or vegetables at home. Even a small garden or indoor plants can help save on fresh produce costs. I love these cute herb planters. It’s amazing to simply snip some green onion or cilantro right from my window seal. Did you know you can grow lot of herbs from clippings?

By combining several of these strategies, you can effectively reduce your grocery expenses while still enjoying nutritious and delicious meals. It might take some time to adjust your habits, but the savings can be significant in the long run.