Plan ahead and save hundreds on groceries

Tired of the increasing costs of everything? With gas around $4 per gallon the cost of almost all goods and services seems to follow the upward trend. The closer we get to summer the likelihood of prices increasing more is inevitable. The worst part is that salaries don’t seem to be increasing with the cost of goods and services. How can you combat these inflated prices? Start by saving hundreds of dollars on your grocery bill!

First, there is the obvious answer the everybody knows about but tends to forget when we walk out the door to go to the grocery store… coupons. Every week you get them in the mail, online, or many times they are even offered at the grocery store, but most of us never use them. You do have to be careful not to purchase things you wouldn’t normally buy, but if you use them correctly you can save some major money at the checkout line! So next time you head to the grocery store remember to grab those coupons.

Second, make a list and remember to bring it with you. Make your list carefully before you leave the house. Don’t sit in your car in the parking lot trying to remember what you need for the week to come. You may have a good memory, but it’s tough to remember everything in the panty and refrigerator. Only buy stuff you NEED, those ice cream bars and magazines might sound good, but you really don’t need them. Remember you are trying to save money and stick to a budget so only buy needed items, you might accidentally lose some weight too! Once inside the store only buy stuff on the list, don’t browse around picking up items you don’t need.

Finally, watch for sale items. If it’s something you will use but won’t go bad, such as toilet paper and paper towels, then stock up! Prices in items fluctuate from week to week so a smart shopper will track the prices of these items and stock up on them when they are at their lowest point. Similar to the stock market buy when the price is low! Look around online at store websites and find deals before you go shopping many times large retail stores will match the lowest competitors prices.