The cost of groceries for most families represents a significant part of their budgets, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are some tricks to reducing a family’s grocery bill. Here are a few of them.
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Shop Your Pantry
It can be tempting to go out shopping a few times a week when you’ve run out of inspiration for your meals. However, according to the Dave Ramsey website, this gets expensive, and it isn’t necessary. The next time you’re tempted to run to the store for dinner fare, run to your pantry instead. Pull a meal together with the items you find in there instead. You save money and avoid food waste by doing this.
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Cook Meals in Bulk
If you buy in bulk, you know the value of big batches of food. Why not extend this practice to your meal prep by making batches of meals ahead of time and freezing them? Best of all, these make-ahead meals can be popped into the microwave and served in minutes, saving you time and money on hectic nights when you might be tempted just to order takeout.
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Clip Coupons
Clipping coupons is another money-saving tactic people use to reduce food costs. If this is a habit you have or would like to develop, then take advantage of it and the savings that come with it—clip coupons for the more expensive items on your grocery list to save big bucks.
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Don’t Always Shop at the Same Places
You may be loyal to your local grocers, but that doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deals on food there. It may be in your best interest to take some time to explore what other stores in your area have to offer. Specialty stores, like Asian markets or grocery outlet stores, often have better prices and an excellent selection, making them a viable alternative to your regular store.
Final Words
According to Nerd Wallet, the average family spends over $400 a month on groceries. This alone is a reason to develop better spending habits when buying groceries. The tips on this list offer a few practical ways to do that without forcing you to make significant changes in your lifestyle. This makes them all the more powerful because you’re more likely to try some of the tips if they’re easy to incorporate.