Groceries are one of the few big costs you can change every week. Small habits make a noticeable difference.
Quick wins
- Planning meals before you shop is the single biggest habit for cutting grocery costs.
- A list keeps impulse buys out of the cart.
- Store brands and seasonal produce often cost less for similar quality.
- Wasting less food is the same as spending less money.
Food is a big part of most household budgets, and unlike rent or insurance, you can adjust it every week.
Plan before you shop
- Check what’s already in the fridge, freezer and pantry.
- Plan the week’s meals around those ingredients.
- Write a list from the plan, grouped by store section.
Cooking a couple of big meals that stretch into leftovers saves both money and time.
In the store
| Habit | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Stick to the list | Cuts impulse buys |
| Compare unit prices | Shows the real cheapest option |
| Try store brands | Often lower prices for similar quality |
| Buy produce in season | Usually cheaper and fresher |
| Check frozen fruit and vegetables | Lasts longer and reduces waste |
Money saver
Look at the top and bottom shelves. Higher-priced items are often placed at eye level, while cheaper alternatives sit above or below.
Waste less
- Store food properly and check use-by dates when you unpack.
- Freeze bread, leftovers and meat you won’t use in time.
- Plan a “use it up” meal each week.
Every item you throw away is money spent for nothing, so cutting waste can save as much as hunting for deals.
Worth a look
Coupons and loyalty programs can help, but only for things you’d buy anyway. A discount on something you don’t need is still spending.
Keeping the savings
Track your grocery spending for a month to set a realistic weekly budget, then move anything you save into a savings account. Our guides to the 24-hour rule and whether sale prices are real help with spending outside the grocery store too.
You might be wondering
Is buying in bulk always cheaper?
Not always. Check the unit price, and only buy in bulk what you’ll use before it spoils.
Are store brands worse quality?
Often they’re comparable, and some are made by the same manufacturers as name brands. Try them product by product.
How often should I shop?
Many people save by shopping once a week with a list, which means fewer trips and fewer impulse buys.
These tips are general information. Prices, plans and programs vary by provider and location, so check the details with your provider before you switch or sign up.