A grocery store is one of the places that many people are left unconscious of their spending habits. Many shoppers sometimes fail to perceive what a need is versus a want in doing groceries. Nobody can be blamed for this and who could resist the thought of a wholesale price of three whole chickens or the 50% discount of the most expensive steak cuts you are eyeing. Temptation does prevail in the grocery and fortunately, Apartment Therapy shares what you can do to stick in your budget and refrain from unnecessary splurge when hitting the grocer.
1. Keep a list- and use it.
Make a list, keep the list, and follow it strictly. This tip is very straight-forward, in order for anyone to stick with their budget, a list of what you need can limit your spending. Before doing your grocery, check your food supplies, your pantry, and make a list of those supplies that will run out in time.
2. Shop against the clock.
Spending too much time in the grocer will make you explore more section and aisles that you really don't need to check. If you regulate your shopping time to 30 min., this will make you just look for the important products that you really need to purchase for your home.
3. Plan (meals) ahead.
Make a meal plan beforehand for Monday until Sunday. Find out the ingredients that you will need for these recipes and make a list. Before hitting the grocery store, check out your supplies first and what are needed on your list so that you don't have to make another purchase on an item that you already have.
4. Shop your cupboards.
Be creative. Plainly, you can opt to skip out grocery shopping by checking what's left behind in your pantry. Mix and match ingredients or even create a new recipe. This will not just save you money but you can even discover a great meal if you try this.
5. Buy on sale (with caution).
Sale definitely triggers happy hormones for most shoppers and can even blind them from sticking with their list. Although there are many sale items that are tempting, one should stay wise and only purchase the items that they really need.
