7 Money-Saving Grocery Tips That Can Cost You

Discover the truth behind common money-saving grocery tips and learn which ones actually help you save and which could be costing you more.

by Andrea Norris-McKnight

Money-Saving Grocery Tips That Can Cost You photo

When it comes to cutting costs, the grocery store is often the first battleground for many people adopting a frugal lifestyle. However, like most personal finance or frugal living advice, not all money-saving grocery tips are one-size-fits-all. A tip that helps some people save might cost others.

Today, we’re going to explore some common money-saving grocery tips that, depending on your circumstances, may not be wallet winners.

Money-Saving Grocery Tips That Can Cost You

Tip #1: Buying in Bulk Always Saves Money

Bulk buying is often touted as a fail-proof way to save, but it can lead to overspending if you aren’t careful.

First, it requires an upfront cost, which can strain your finances if you’re on a tight budget. Second, perishable items might expire before you can use them, leading to waste.

Always assess your household’s consumption rates before buying in bulk and consider whether you have adequate storage space.

Here are a few articles that can help you make bulk-buying work for you:

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Tip #2: Warehouse Clubs Are Worth the Membership Fee

The value of a warehouse club membership can vary greatly depending on your shopping habits and family size. While these memberships can offer substantial savings on bulk items, you have to shop frequently enough and purchase sufficient quantities to offset the annual membership fee. For smaller households or those with limited storage space, the membership might not be cost-effective. Additionally, the temptation to buy more than you need just because items are available in large quantities can lead to overspending.

Before signing up, consider how often you’ll use the membership and whether the available products align with your usual consumption patterns. If the math doesn’t add up, your budget might benefit more from shopping at traditional grocery stores and taking advantage of their sales to stock up without the commitment of a membership fee.

Readers Weigh In: Is Warehouse Club Membership Worth the Cost for a Small Family?

Tip #3: Clipping Coupons Equals Saving More Money

Coupons can be great, but they may tempt you to buy items you wouldn’t normally purchase, which can actually increase your total spending.

To truly benefit from coupons, only clip those for products you regularly use or were planning to try anyway. Also, compare the after-coupon price with generic or store brands; sometimes, the latter are still cheaper.

Tip #4: Store Brands Are the Cheapest Option

While store brands are typically less expensive than national brands, this isn’t a universal rule. During sales, national brands can dip below the price of store brands, especially when paired with a coupon.

Additionally, you may not like the taste or quality of some store-brand items, which could result in dissatisfaction and wasted money if you don’t use up those products you dislike.

Before buying multiples of a store brand item to save money, try one. If you or your family approves, you’ll know it’s a good option the next time you’re looking for the best deal.

Tip #5: Daily Deals and Flash Sales Always Offer the Best Prices

Daily deals or flash sales can provide significant savings, but they can also be a clever way for stores to clear out inventory. This might mean the items are close to their expiration date or are seasonal products that won’t be used in time.

Always check the usefulness and quality of items in these sales rather than being swayed by the low prices alone. If you aren’t prepared to use or preserve an item during the short window before it goes bad, skip the deal no matter how good it is.

Tip #6: Cooking From Scratch Is Always Cheaper Than Buying Premade and Prepackaged Foods

The belief that cooking from scratch is invariably cheaper overlooks several key factors. Premade and prepackaged foods can sometimes be more economical when bought on sale or in bulk, offering convenience without a significant price penalty. They can also save you from ordering delivery on busy nights, which is one of the costliest ways to feed your family.

Also, while it can be cost-effective for meals that require basic, inexpensive ingredients, it’s not always true for recipes requiring special ingredients or spices that you’ll only use sparingly. The cost of purchasing every component separately can add up quickly, not to mention the time and energy costs involved in preparation.

Evaluate the real cost and benefits on a case-by-case basis rather than adhering strictly to the idea that homemade always means less expensive.

These articles can help you avoid the high cost of delivery:

Tip #7: Going Organic on Everything is Cheaper in the Long Run

Organic products are generally more expensive, and the idea that they all save you on health costs in the long run isn’t always accurate.

If going organic is important to you, prioritize items known to have higher pesticide levels in their non-organic form, like apples or strawberries. You don’t need to go organic for everything, especially since product labeling can be confusing. For example, according to VerywellHealth.com, “Products marked with ‘organic ingredients’ do not require certification or a minimum amount of organic ingredients.” Consider what makes the most sense for your budget and health, and know what you’re buying.

Smart Shopping Strategies That Work for Almost Everyone

Now that we’ve cleared up some money-saving grocery ideas that aren’t always money-savers, here are a few quick tips that can help most people save:

Plan Your Meals: Meal planning and shopping with a list based on your plan reduces impulse buys and ensures you purchase only what you need.
Check Unit Prices: Comparing prices across similar products can help you find real savings and not just advertised store savings.
Be Seasonal: Buy fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season; they are usually cheaper and fresher.
Stay Flexible: Be ready to swap out items on your shopping list if you find a better deal at the store.

By approaching grocery shopping with a strategy and a discerning eye, you can make the most of your budget. Remember, the goal isn’t just to spend less but to spend wisely.

Reviewed April 2024

About the Author

Andrea Norris-McKnight took over as the editor of The Dollar Stretcher and After 50 Finances after working under the site founder and previous editor for almost 15 years. She has also written for Money.com, GOBankingRates.com, HavenLife.com and The Sacramento Bee.