Grocery shopping can be a daunting and expensive task. Promotions, deals and sales may seem like your saving grace, but that isn't always the case!
Here are our top 10 tips for making your grocery shopping a simpler and less expensive affair…
Don't shop on an empty stomach. Why? Because you are more likely to buy snacks and unnecessary foods purely because you think they look great (and subconsciously know that they will fix your hunger pains!)
Compare brands and varieties of products, particularly the pre-packaged items, by looking at the price per kilo. Promotions and sale stickers can throw shoppers off their game, as they make an item look cheaper than the others (even when it is more expensive per kilo). Examine the price labels and the details that are provided before you make your decision on which product to buy
Plan your meals for the week. This will not only allow you to buy the correct amount of items on your weekly shop, but avoid those one off shopping trips to grab that ingredient you forgot you needed (don't forget- this will save you petrol too!)
Make a list and stick to it. Don't be tempted by the long and full isles of the supermarket- stick to your list and tick as you go- You won't be as tempted to grab those extra sweet treats
Do your homework. View the cheapest deals across the different supermarket chains online and write down the best bargains. Also compare supermarket prices to those in the butcher and fresh fruit and vegetable shops. The smaller businesses may have better deals than the supermarket!
Set a budget. You are less likely to overspend if you have a limit in place.
Buy 2 loaves of bread and put one in the freezer. If the non-frozen loaf starts to go mouldy during the week, you have a backup loaf in the freezer! This will also save you that extra trip to the supermarket in the middle of the week!
Don't buy the pre-cut meat. Some supermarkets sneakily charge extra for the cut slices of meat, such as those designed for stir-fries or schnitzels. Save those extra few dollars by buying the larger cuts of meat and slicing it yourself. In doing this, you are also able to cut your meat into portion-sized pieces and freeze them individually for your next meal!
Study your pantry and fridge before you leave for the supermarket. Cross check what you have written down to avoid wasting money on an item that isn't really needed.
Time yourself. Give yourself 30 minutes, 45 minutes or an hour maximum at the supermarket. The quicker you are, the less tempted you will be!
Try these tips out before your next shop. Your savings can go towards a nice meal out with your other half!