10 Smart Strategies for Saving
Concerned about your grocery bills getting higher every month? You’re not alone. Grocery prices in the U.S. have crept up in recent years, and many families are feeling it at checkout. With food prices continuing to skyrocket, learning how to save money on groceries is more important than ever.
If you’re wondering how to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or nutrition, keep reading. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple, effective ways to cut your bill, and we've put together a list of tips to help.
1. Use Your Grocery Store’s App
Most major grocery chains like Kroger, Albertsons and Safeway have their own apps packed with digital coupons, weekly ads and loyalty rewards.
- “Clip" discounts to your account with one tap.
- Track prices and deals before you step foot in the store.
- Some apps even suggest recipes based on what’s on sale.
This is one of the easiest ways to save; just open the app before you go.
2. Sign Up for Rewards Programs
Loyalty programs are free and worth the few seconds it takes to sign up. From CVS and Walgreens to warehouse stores, these programs often unlock members-only deals, discounts at checkout and cashback rewards.
- Earn points you can redeem later.
- Get personalized offers based on your purchases.
- Receive alerts when your favorite products go on sale.
Many of these accounts can be linked to your phone number, so you don't even need to carry around an extra card.
3. Stick to a Strict List
Impulse purchases are budget killers. The best way to avoid them is to show up with a list, and stick to it. Plan your meals before you shop, and check your pantry so you don’t double up on staples. And remember: NEVER shop hungry.
Having a clear plan means you’ll only grab what you need, and walk right past what you don’t.
4. Compare Prices Between Stores
Prices can vary a lot between grocery chains. One store may have cheaper produce, while another has better deals on meat or pantry items.
- Use comparison apps like Flipp, Basket or ShopSavvy.
- Look at weekly flyers online.
- Ask if your store price matches competitors.
It might take an extra few minutes, but the savings add up fast, especially for larger households.
5. Shop Store Brands
Generic or store-brand products have come a long way. These days, they’re often made by the same manufacturers as name-brand items, just with a different label.
- Most are 15–30% cheaper.
- Available in every aisle: snacks, dairy, frozen foods and cleaning supplies.
- Many stores offer satisfaction guarantees if you don’t like the product.
Give them a shot. You may be surprised by how much you like them (and what you save).
6. Use Cashback and Grocery-Specific Apps
Cashback apps are one of the most underutilized ways to save money on groceries. Apps like Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, Receipt Hog and Upside let you scan your receipt after you shop and earn money back on specific products.
Over time, these rebates can add up to real savings, and in some cases, gift cards or direct cash-outs. You can even stack these apps with in-store discounts or digital coupons for even more savings.
7. Buy in Bulk, but Wisely
Warehouse stores can be a money-saver, but only if you shop smart. Bulk buying makes sense for items with a long shelf life or things you use often.
- Stock up on paper goods, rice, pasta, canned goods and frozen items.
- Avoid perishable foods you might not use in time.
- Split purchases with a friend or neighbor if quantities are too large.
Keep an eye on unit prices because buying in bulk isn’t always a better deal. Don’t overbuy just because something is on discount. At the end of the day, you aren’t saving money if you’re throwing half the food away.
8. Time Your Shopping Trips
Sales often rotate on a predictable schedule. Most stores release weekly ads mid-week, and fresh discounts start on Wednesdays or Thursdays.
- Shop early in the week for new deals and fully stocked shelves.
- Avoid weekends if you want to skip crowds and impulse temptations.
- Ask employees when new stock comes in (especially for produce and meat).
Timing your trip could score you fresher items and better prices.
9. Use Your Freezer
Your freezer is your secret weapon for saving money. Found a great deal on chicken or veggies? Buy extra and freeze it for later.
- Portion out meat, soup or sauces so they’re easy to grab.
- Freeze fruit before it goes bad for smoothies or baking.
- Use ice cube trays to freeze broth, wine or herbs in small amounts.
Less food waste = more savings.
10. Review Your Receipts
Don’t just stuff your receipt in your bag. Take 60 seconds to look it over.
- Check for overcharges or missed discounts.
- Track what categories eat up the most of your budget.
- Use receipts to fine-tune next week’s list.
Keeping tabs helps you spot your consumer patterns and curb overspending before it becomes a habit.
Get Ready to Save
Learning how to save money on groceries doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or making extreme changes. With a few intentional, simple changes like planning ahead, using the right tools and shopping smarter, you can take back control of your food budget and keep more money in your pocket.