8 Ways to Save at the Grocery Store

Trying to stay on budget while providing your family with everything they need—let alone want—can be a never-ending battle. So, whether you’re cooking for game night or just planning the weekly dinner menu, check out these tips to help you save.

1. BOGO may not be the best deal. “Buy one, get one” deals are common at the grocery store. However, a BOGO offer will often ring up as 50% off each item at the check stand. This means that, if you can’t use two, you can buy one and get the same deal. Check the fine print or talk with a store manager to make sure this works in your preferred store.

2. Don’t fall for the perfect pair. Chips and salsa, cheese and crackers, eggs and bacon. You’ll often see these, and other, classic food pairings grouped together in a case or on a shelf. Not only are you pressured to buy more but, even if you need the additional items, you don’t get a chance to compare prices with other brands. Avoid this convenience trap and pick up the item in its normal location.

3. Look closely at those end cap prices. There’s a reason those shelves at the end of each aisle look so enticing—this is where the sales are, right? Not always! Grocery stores are counting on shoppers associating end caps with sales—so sometimes, about half the time, they load these shelves with non-sale items in hopes you’ll pick them up and put them in your cart.

4. Check the math on multiples. It always makes you feel great when you see an offer of “10 for $10,” or something similar. However, this tactic often has shoppers buying more than they need to get the deal. The good news is that most stores give you the sale price no matter how many items you purchase. So, buy only what you need. Don’t forget to do the math on these promotions (or check the unit price on the shelf tag) to make sure the price per item is actually lower than the regular price.

5. Look high and low. Everyone knows that the more expensive products are often placed at eye-level—a prime location since you’re more apt to choose an item that is right in front of you. Be sure to compare similar products found on higher or lower shelves to find the best deal.

6. Compare volume. Don’t make the mistake many shoppers do and think that the bigger the container, the more value you get. It’s not always true. Be sure to check those unit prices and compare sizes and brands. Your checking account will thank you!

7. Choose the smaller shopping cart. You may not have noticed, but shopping carts have gotten bigger over the years. The thinking is that if you have a lot of room in your cart, you’ll be compelled to fill it—likely with a lot of things you don’t really need. Choose the smaller carts if your store offers them. A basket is an even better choice if your list isn’t too long.

8. Beware of the checkout aisle. This last chance lane is and the grocery store is counting on you to drop them into your cart. Many shoppers consider these items just because they’re bored. Don’t fall for it!

Can’t get enough? Here are some more quick tips for the grocery store:

• Stick to the edges of the store—you’ll find more fresh foods

• Don’t shop hungry

• Shop with a list and stick to it

• Compare prices

• Plan your meals for the week

• Have a budget

• Use the sales circular

• Watch for price-match deals

• Use a store rewards card/app