Grocery Guidelines
Next to the cost of housing, food is generally the most expensive line in a family budget. So it makes sense to shop smart when it’s time to purchase groceries. Here are five key strategies to employ.
Start by creating the week’s menu. This gives you the ability to look over items already in the house and make full use of what you’ve got before buying more.
Keep track of the mainstays. Whether its toilet paper or that brand of cereal you eat every morning, always have an idea of how much you have left. When you’re down to a few week’s worth of supplies, make note of it and watch for discounts and coupons.
Then, create a shopping list. Work from the menu and determine what products will be needed to fill out each meal.
Use coupons and bargains. The best deal spots can change from week to week, so take a little time to do some homework and shop where your shopping list costs the least.
Finally, don’t deviate from the list. Impulse buys will get you every time. They’re usually costly, not often heathy and always add to your checkout bill.