How to Prepare Your Grocery Shopping List to Save Money
Planning ahead can save you time and money when it comes to grocery shopping: You'll waste less of the food you buy and you won't be tempted to go out to eat when you don't have the ingredients for a meal at home. Preparing before you shop also lets you compare prices at different stores and gives you the chance to check your pantry before you leave, so you don't wind up buying an extra bag of flour while another sits forgotten on your shelf. A good grocery list includes staples that can be used in multiple meals.
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Instructions
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Plan out a week's worth of meals. Look in your fridge and pantry to see what you should use up and pick meals that include those ingredients. Check grocery store circulars to see what's on sale and also try to organize your meals around sale items that appeal to you.
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Write a shopping list. Make sure to include versatile ingredients that can be used in more than one meal, such as beans, rice and eggs. Replace meat with less expensive protein sources, such as chick peas and canned fish.
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Go shopping. Buy generic when you can and make sure to compare unit prices, not the price of the products, which may come in different amounts. Stay away from convenience foods, like microwaveable meals or prechopped vegetables, which cost more because they're easier to prepare. Do the prep work yourself and save money.
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Stick to your list. Buying in bulk may save you money, but only stock up on items you know you'll use. Don't be fooled by end-of-aisle displays: they may not be a bargain. Always check the prices before you decide whether something is a good value.
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Keep an eye on the register. When a cashier rings up your items, make sure the right price scans, especially for sale items. If the store ran out of a sale item, ask for a rain check at the customer service counter.
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Tips & Warnings
Try frozen fruits and vegetables: They retain the same nutrients as their fresh counterparts and are often less expensive, especially out of season.
Don't shop when you're hungry or you're more likely to buy on impulse.
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