Inflation has caused soaring prices in almost every facet of life, including groceries and other essentials. If you are feeling the pinch of inflation, you are not alone. Recently men compiled a list of tips for making the most of your budget for necessities. Here are the best tips to save money on groceries and essentials this year.
1. Purchase Off-Brand Items
Purchasing generic items instead of their name-brand counterparts can save a significant amount on your grocery bill. In addition, maximize a store’s rewards program by purchasing off-brand items that are typically cheaper and go on sale more frequently.
2. Caution When Buying in Bulk
Buying items in bulk may save a few cents per unit, but this savings is only helpful if said items will all be used. If an item expires or goes bad before you use it, you’re not saving yourself money.
Base meals around bulk ingredients that are filling and inexpensive to save on your grocery budget. Also, purchase items that have a long shelf life, such as toilet paper or cleaning supplies, in bulk to save money in the long run.
3. Plan Ahead for Meals
One user commented, “I usually make a big pot of chili that will do me three days or a chicken curry, or other recipes I can make in batches that I know I’ll eat.” Other commenters agreed that meal planning and cooking more at home significantly reduced the food line in their budgets.
4. Keep an Eye on Sales or Coupons
Items that are frequently used or are typically pricy should be purchased in bulk when there are sales or coupons. The initial purchase may be costly, but keeping a supply on hand will save you money in the long run.
5. Use a Credit Card with Bonuses
In addition to shopping for deals or coupons, consider what you purchase your groceries with. Certain credit cards offer a cash-back bonus on your most used category or a specific percentage for gas and grocery purchases. Be thoughtful when using credit cards and pay them off at the end of each month to avoid accruing debt.
6. Walk or Use Mass Transit When Possible
Save money by considering how to get to the store to purchase groceries and essentials. Mass transit can be cheaper than a gas-guzzling vehicle, and walking is free.
7. Consider Buying Groceries Online
Another suggested, “It costs a bit more up-front, but I find that I’m not buying any impulse items or junk food, ultimately saving me more than the extra cost.” Instead of browsing aisles, selecting items individually can reduce the chance of extra, unnecessary purchases.
8. Learn How to Cut Your Meat
Purchasing individual cuts of meat can be cost-prohibitive. Instead, buy a whole chicken or another type of meat and cut it into individual portions. Freeze any unused portions within a few days for use later.
9. Use Everything You Buy
Take stock of what you purchase monthly. Is it all being used? Do items often go bad or expire before use? Consider making a list of everything you buy and seeing what can be removed from the list. Items that never get used or expire before use waste funds that could be used elsewhere.
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