Want to save money on your groceries? Do you want to reduce your grocery bill, have more money spare to save, pay off your mortgage quicker, or do fun things with the family? Well, here’s how :
1. Always plan your meals in advance. I’ve done this for years now, and used a great meal planner from www.organisedmum.co.uk. Alternatively, you can use Tescos’ recipe planner, which allows you to buy the groceries for each recipe with just one click (although sometimes I’ll substitute an ingredient they’ve suggested for a cheaper version).Then buy only the ingredients you need for the week and no more. This stops so much wastage.
2. Buy online. This stops you from being distracted and tempted by all those ‘good deals’ placed strategically where you’re most likely to see them. Unless you were going to buy that product anyway for a recipe, or it’s an item you really need regularly, don’t do it!
3. Eat what is in your fridge and cupboard. I love this one, and it was a revelation to me when I learnt it in the War on debt session at a Dani Johnson seminar (see www.danijohnson.com) Just this week I’ve practically halved our grocery bill by doing this (down from around £90 per week to £46). I looked at what meat, veg, rice, pasta and sauces I had in my kitchen and created a list of about 12 of the key items.
Then I typed those ingredients one by one into Tescos’ recipe finder and found simple recipes that I could cook with those ingredients. Voila! I had 4 meals available already just based on what was left over in my kitchen. It doesn’t bother me if 1 or 2 ingredients are missing, as I can easily swap them for something similar that I have. You know that spinach that is about to wilt in your fridge? You were going to throw it away in a day or two… no more! This way, you create meals around what is left and use up everything you have.
4. Buy the discount version for those things that don’t matter I buy ‘value’ butter, toilet paper, kitchen towel, bananas and a number of other items. You’re probably thinking ‘No way, I could never do that.’ Don’t be a snob! You’re just hurting your own pocket… for what?! To impress others?! We honestly feel that the difference in price is not worth any added benefit – and often there is no added benefit.
By doing just these 4 things alone, you will notice a substantial difference in your grocery spending! Happy saving!
So what are your top tips for saving money on your groceries? I’d love to hear them. Comment below and let me know.
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