Grocery Bill
Your grocery bill is one of the biggest ways to save money. Most bills are set in stone (mortgage, cable, etc.) or are pretty close to the same every time (gas bill, electric bill, phone, etc.). If you are using the $100 (each) cash budget--or whatever works for your family-- the only thing that should be variable is the gas you put in your car and your groceries. For a while, we were spending a ridiculous amount of money on food. We still spend a decent amount, but we also try to eat healthy. Unfortunately, fresh fruits and vegetables aren't cheap. Our budget is $100 a week, but we tend to spend around $75 to $85. This budget includes everything you would get at the grocery store--paper towels, toilet paper, kleenex, cleaning supplies, baggies, dishwasher detergent, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, make up, laundry detergent, and more!
One thing I've found that helps us on our budget, is to shop once a week and ONLY buy what we need for that week. I know all those coupon freaks tell you to stock pile. I'm sure that works. However, we don't have room to stock pile. I use to buy things I know we'd use or buy 3 and 4 of something, when one box would last us all week. By only buying what we need for that week, it has really cut down on all the extra money and calories!
Also, make a list. I think this is obvious, but some people don't do it. I make a meal plan, then I make a list off of that. I generally only buy what is on my list. Sometimes if I see something that is on sale for a really good price, and I know it's something we use, I will get it. Rarely do I just start adding stuff to my cart like I use to.
Another thing I've learned is that bigger is not always better. Sometimes the smaller box gives you the best price per unit. You have to look.
I use coupons, but sometimes it's cheaper to get the generic brand than to get the name brand--even with the coupon doubled. I think I am a very brand loyal kind of girl, but for money saving purposes I try not to be. There are some things I refuse to get generic though.
As much as I love to buy the already chopped up veggies, I try to not do this. Sure, it takes me a little longer on Sunday to chop up all the veggies, but the savings is worth it.
I try to only buy meat when it's on sale. A few weeks ago I got a deal where it was buy a roast get the second for free. They were $13 roasts, so I essentially saved $13. Plus, that meat made multiple meals!
Stay tuned....
Next week's edition is on meal planning. This will be directly related to your grocery bill as well!
I"m all about Meijer brand stuff, I save a ton that way too. Yes LISTS!! very important...although I'm a Sam's Club girl and stock up on toiletries that way...I also plan my meals for the week and buy the ingredients needed for that too..however we still spend more than $100!
ReplyDeleteWe go to Costco too for some stuff. But sometimes it's cheaper to use a coupon and get a pack of 4 of TP at the store than get the big 20 pack at Costco. It just depends. We get a lot of Michael's snack food (for work) from Costco too.
ReplyDeleteThe people that do the couponing like freaks say that you actually save more money when you do coupons right and go to stores like Kroger (or whatever is in your area) as opposed to Meijer and Costco. I don't have the time to be a coupon freak yet. Maybe some day! :)