Want to know a great secret on how to save a little more money at the grocery store? Make a store list, actually take it with you, and stick to it once you are there. A little planning ahead can divert impulse buying and in turn cut the grocery bill.

Start creating your list for the next trip as soon as you get back from the grocery store. If you forgot something the past time it probably wasn’t something mandatory anyway so add it to the new list. As you go through the week keep adding items to your list. Some people keep it on the fridge so it’s in a convenient location. We actually used to have a chalkboard painted on our wall for a grocery list, a to do list and a calendar.

After you’ve made the effort to create your list you have to remember to take it with you. It may be something that’s hard to get used to but it’s an essential part of the process. There are actually some great free applications for smart phones that can help you track lists and more than likely you will have your cell phone with you.

Now that you’ve created your list and remembered to bring it with you, you have to stick to the list at the store. If it’s not on the list don’t buy it. This will help cut out unnecessary expenses and impulse buying. Even if it saves you $5 per week it adds up over time.

If you are a penny pincher then every cent saved counts. Creating a grocery store list is just another simple way to help tighten your budget.