How to Grocery Shop Only Once a Month

Fewer trips to the grocery store means less spending on non-essential items.

Grocery shopping once a month can save you money in the long run. Fewer trips to the store means fewer chances to pick up "just one more thing" that you may regret buying later. Timing your trip according to store sales can also lighten the burden on your wallet. A monthly trip requires you to plan and budget differently and requires discipline to stick to the plan. But if you manage it, you can save up money for things you truly enjoy.

Instructions

1. Make a list of the meals you would like to make throughout the month. Check the refrigerator and cupboard for items you already have. List the foods and supplies, and the amounts that you need.

2. Watch grocery sale circulars in the newspaper and time your shopping trip to take advantage of sales on items you use often.

3. Plan to go to more than one store on the day of your grocery shopping. Buy food and supplies at the stores that offer them for the best price. Buy enough to last until the item is on sale again.

4. Adjust your budget to accommodate a large shopping trip. Grocery shopping once a month will affect your bank account differently than a weekly shopping routine.

5. Buy plenty of frozen meals, soups and even cereals at the store. You can keep these items in your home for a month or more without having to worry about them going bad.

6. Plan to eat a variety of foods throughout the month. Fresh fruits and vegetables will only last so long, but you can buy frozen vegetables and canned fruit that will last you the entire month.

References

• Get Rich Slowly; Once-A-Month Shopping: Save More by Shopping Less; J.D. Roth; 2008
• The Dollar Stretcher: Your Grocery Budget -- Where to Find Savings