Since we haven’t been eating out as much, I’ve noticed our grocery bill on the rise.  The trade off is well worth it, as we’re definitely saving money by not eating out (not to mention the health trade off!).

Still, I like to keep our grocery budget under a certain amount, so I look to save money where I can.  Let me continue by saying I am not a coupon clipper.  I have tried it, I have heard of the tv shows where people save thousands, and I just can’t do it.  I forgot my canvas bags more often than not, I would have a really hard time with coupons too.

There are the old standbys, which I listed below just in case anyone forgot.  But what do you do to save on groceries?  Here are some of the things I do:

• Have a list.  Yes, the most common tip.  Make a list and stick to it.  Now as I mentioned above, I forget my canvas bags.  So rather than using a piece of paper which I’m definitely likely to lose, I put the list on my phone.  That way I know I’ll have my list!
• Don’t always fall for sales.  Just recently I had my twins with me in the store.  I try to make a learning experience out of everything and noticed a perfect opportunity:  there was an item on sale (a “2 for” deal) and then the same item in bulk next to it.  I had them compare the sale item – how many ounces would you get for that amount?  Then, look at the bulk item – is it a better deal?  Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
• Take your time.  If I have a big list, I make sure I’m not pressed for time.  Reason being, if I’m doing comparison shopping like I describe above, it will take me longer.
• Shop at down times.  If you’re going to take your time, shop when the crowds aren’t there (if you can).  It’s much easier to concentrate when you’re not pushing your way through crowds.
• Bring a calculator.  My list is in my phone, as is my calculator.  I’m okay at math, but sometimes my brain is so jumbled with so many other things it’s easier to just whip out the calculator and figure it out.
• Eat before you go.  Everybody has done this at some point or another; try going to a grocery store when you’re hungry.  It is absolute torture.  Everything looks good, and therefore you buy everything.  Don’t go on an empty stomach.
• Look down low and up high.  Ever heard the grocery tips on marketing?  How the store is set up, where the kid appealing items are placed, where the bargain items go?  Interesting stuff.
• Set a not to exceed.  I do try to budget our groceries, though I’m sort of lackadaisical about it.  Rather than having a budget each time I go to the store, I set a not to exceed and try to stay around or below that.  I know, it’s pretty much the same thing.  It just feels and sounds different to me.
• Be comfortable.  I dislike going to the store in office dress.  Go comfortable.
• Don’t take your children (or your husband).  If at all possible, go alone – for many reasons.  I save anywhere from $10-$40 by shopping alone.  Also, it makes “take your time” a whole lot easier.

My stepdaughter’s family birthday party is this weekend, which naturally means a big shopping trip.  She’s requested tapas and a carrot cake this year.  I’ve already started my list, and am searching for new ways to save (this is a BIG list!)  What do you do to save on your grocery bill?