The Thrifty Frugal Mom.

Sometimes people think that the only way that they can save money on groceries is by using coupons and while using coupons does provide huge savings, there are lots of other ways to save as well.  Here are a few ways that you can save money on groceries without using coupons:

1. Use a grocery list

When shopping without a list you are quicker to grab anything that looks appealing and are less likely to think through your purchases and as a result you spend more.  Before you head to the grocery store think about the items you need.  Look in your cupboards and assess what you are low on.  Do you only have a partial box of pasta?  Is there just one roll of toilet paper left?  Then put those things on your list.  Even better, keep a running grocery list.  When you open a new box of something, add that item to your grocery list to avoid running out and having to make a last minute trip to the store.

When making your grocery list, you’ll also want to think about what food you plan to make that week.  It might be helpful to jot down a menu so that you know exactly what items you need to purchase. I also like to look over my store’s sales flyer to see what items are on sale for a great price.  If it is something I typically use I’ll add it to my list.  Are there events you need to take food to?  Keep that in mind as well.

Once you are at the store, stick to your list.  Don’t let that package of Oreos seduce you into putting them in your cart!

2. Bigger is not always cheaper!

It’s easy to think that bigger packages are always cheaper than smaller ones.  And in fact, they frequently are.  However you might be surprised to find out just how often smaller packages are actually less expensive.  Make it a habit to look at the price per unit (such as kg for kg.) which most stores have displayed on their shelf price labels.  Compare the unit price and buy whichever size is the least expensive.