There are a whole lot of families who are doing their best, working hard, even working multiple jobs just to pay their bills and yet are still struggling. One of the best tips to offer for families who are struggling is to sit down and make a budget, taking a good close look at what they are spending and where. Outside of house expenses, one of the biggest household expenses may come as a surprise, as it is indeed groceries.
According to statistics the average American household spends up to 33% of its monthly income on groceries alone. Now what can be even more shocking is thinking about how much goes to waste in a month, which is basically like throwing money in the trash. So if you’re looking for ways to cut down on household expenses, your grocery bill is an excellent place to start. Here are five tips that can really make a difference.
Start Couponing
If you’ve never given couponing a try and figured it probably wouldn’t make that much of a difference, it’s time to think again. Couponing can provide families with an easy and lucrative way to save money on their grocery bill. The Frugal Fabulous Finds website is the ideal spot to find all the latest coupons and promotions. You can even sign up for coupons to be sent to your inbox so you don’t have to remember to keep coming back.
Make a Meal Plan and a List
Rather than just walking into the store and picking out items that appeal to you and you think you may need, it’s a good idea to approach your meals and eating in a different way. Start by creating a weekly meal plan. This can also include a plan for school and work lunches and snacks. Once you’ve created the plan you can then make a list of the items you need in order to stick with the plan for the week. At the store be sure to only get what is on the list, and don’t be swayed by impulse purchases.
This will also help to cut down on the amount of food waste that is generated since you’ll be able to use everything you buy.
Don’t Shy Away from Generic Brands
Whenever possible take a look at the generic brands and compare them to the name brands. Shopping generic brands can save a huge amount on your grocery bill, and in many cases you won’t notice much of a difference in taste. This is even more the case when it comes to canned goods, baking supplies, spices, and non-perishable items.
Buy Fruits and Vegetables That Are in Season
Of course you want to be able to eat healthy even though you are trying to save money, so a good tip is to shop for fruits and vegetables that are in season whenever possible. It will be cheaper and fresher, making it the best of both worlds.
Becoming a Grocery Shopping Savvy
These tips are meant to help you become grocery shopping savvy, saving a bundle of money and bringing down those household expenses in the process.
Nickida
Nickida is a first-generation Trinidadian American wife and mother of four. She enjoys sharing recipes from her childhood growing up in Trinidad with her readers. Nickida has a son with Autism and shares posts around traveling with a child with special needs to help other families like her own. She loves television, movies and is a true 80's baby.
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