It’s no secret that you can eat for less money by making your meals instead of dining out. But did you know you can also save money through smart shopping?
Plan. Set aside a certain amount of money each week or pay period and do go not over what you budget. Consider buying a gift card from the grocery store you go to most often as a way of reinforcing your limit. Make a grocery list before going to the store, using coupons and advertised sales.
Purchase. Stick to your list and avoid impulse buys. Opt for the cheaper store brands for most items; in most cases you’re not sacrificing quality. Buy whole, in-season fruits and vegetables (not pre-cut or packaged) for maximum produce savings. Opt for dried beans over canned—they are among the cheapest, healthiest items you can purchase. Never go shopping on an empty stomach.