How to Go Shopping in a Military Commissary

Living in the military is no easy task. From deployments to frequent moves, it's a lifestyle not everyone would choose. One of the benefits to living in the military is avoiding sales tax by shopping at the base commissary, or grocery store. Only active duty, Guard, Reserve and retired military members are allowed to purchase items. Military families save about 30 percent on groceries if they shop at the military commissary.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Current military ID

1. Locate the commissary on your nearest military installation. If you are new to an area and are not sure where to look, visit Commisaries.com and use their commissary locator.
2. Bring your current military identification card. Some commissaries check IDs at the front door while others check your ID at the cash registers. Some check in both locations. If you have non-military guests with you, be prepared to sign them in at the front door. Again, not every commissary does this but it is best to be prepared.
3. Experience some deja vu. Most military commissaries have the same floor plan. This makes it easier for shoppers to navigate the aisles no matter where the military sends them.
4. Peruse the aisles, bakery and deli. Take your time and find what you are looking for. Thanks to the international makeup of the military, commissaries carry a large supply of international foods. They also stock organic and natural products.
5. Get in line without delay. Nothing compares to the line in a military commissary. If it is busy, people direct you and your cart through a roped-off line as you are at an amusement park. When you get to the front of the line, a sign lights up with a number telling you which register is yours.
6. Present your current military ID to the cashier. Choose paper or plastic bags.
7. Choose to have a bagger take your groceries to your car or not. The baggers are independent contractors. The only paychecks they receive are tips from customers.

Tips & Warnings

• There are priority checkout lines that give priority to military members in uniform during lunchtime.
• Military commissaries accept cash, checks and most credit or debit cards.
• Those without current military IDs are not allowed to purchase items from military commissaries. Only active duty, Guard, Reserve and retired service members and their families are authorizes to make purchases.
• Avoid the commissary on or around pay day. It is a madhouse.