We’re stocked up on food for the next several weeks and I thought I would share with you some of the ways we save money on groceries.  Over the years I’ve been able to predict the cost of food within a couple dollars.

1. Check the flyers & use coupons

This week I found a large block of cheese on for four dollars, cereal for $2.50 and milk for a dollar less. You don’t save money if you end up buying stuff just because it’s on sale. If you were not going to get it in the first place, it’s similar to an impulse buy.

2. Buy in bulk

Rice, flour, sugar and oatmeal are all things that keep well. If you have a freezer, even better. Plenty of fruit and vegetables can be frozen for months and meat can be separated and frozen into portions. We freeze peppers, broccoli, corn and sometimes even tomatoes.

3. Plan a weekly menu

A monthly menu would be even better, but start with a weekly menu so you can see how much food you will actually need ahead of time.

4. Make a list

Probably stating the obvious but if you don’t have a list, you’re at the mercy of your instincts. I can’t remember more than a few things at a time in my head anyway. Include everything on your menu as well as cleaning products and toiletries. Include prices on your list. If you don’t know, guess. You’ll get better at it.

5. Stick to the list

This is the hardest part. If you only budget a certain amount of money for food, that helps you stick to the  grocery list.

6. Plan snacks along with groceries

Everyone snacks, so you might as well plan for it along with your menu. Even if it’s junk food, admit it and add it to the list. It will save you money since you won’t have to run to the store for popcorn, tortilla chips, dip or pop.

7. Buy local produce that is in season

Fruit and vegetables are usually cheaper when they’re in season. You can always freeze some to have for the winter. You save money and support your local farmers at the same time.

8. Cook from scratch

It’s not that much harder to make pancakes from scratch as opposed to a mix or a hamburger helper. If you have a large family those small mixes are pointless anyway.  If you’re into baking, include raisins and chocolate chips on your list and make cookies and muffins.

9. If you take your children, include them in the planning.

I have taken my children shopping for years.  I’m not always fun since I won’t deviate from the list but it’s a good learning experience for them.  It’s more tempting to give in to those impulse buys when you have two or three more people having impulses. Children can still have input and let you know what they want before you leave and make your list.

10. Pay attention to products above and below eye level

The pricey stuff tends to be at eye level since it’s convenient and they think you won’t bother looking above or below. Sometimes they don’t even have the products or prices lined up properly to match what’s labeled on the shelf. I think they do that on purpose and occasionally get tricked if I’m in a hurry.

Tags: Food, General, Saving Money //