TIPS FOR GROCERY SHOPPING ON A BUDGET

Are you a student with a limited budget? Do you have a hard time whenever you go grocery shopping? Are you one of those people who enter a grocery store just to buy a few things, but end up buying twice as much? We know how hard it can be, so here are a few tips to help you out.

1. MAKE A LIST

It is important that you plan ahead of time what you are going to buy. It may sound obvious, but people often don't do it. It doesn't only mean to write down what you have run out of, but also to plan what you want to eat throughout the whole week. If you do it, not only will you go straight to the products, but also you won't wander around and eventually buy more than you had planned.

2. LOOK FOR COUPONS, DISCOUNTS and BIG PACKAGES

Check your mail for coupons and store them for the next time you go grocery shopping. Once at the grocery store, pay attention to their special offers. Watch out though, because discounted products aren't always the cheapest ones. What can also interest you is family-size packages, which are usually a great deal and you can always store the extras in the freezer. Coupons, discounts and big packages will help you save money. 

3. STICK TO THE LIST

Just like mentioned above, you definitely don't want to buy more than what you really need. Grocery stores have developed many tricks, starting from where the products are placed, the slow music, the suggested product pairings. Our suggestion is to commit to your list, pick the smallest shopping cart, go grocery shopping when you're not feeling hungry. Don't let other factors influence you.

4. CHECK YOUR CART TWICE

When you are ready to check out, take a look at your cart to be sure you got everything you needed and nothing more. If you did get something that wasn't on your list, ask yourself "Do I really need it?" and "Is it healthy?" Also, keep yourself away of those last minute impulse buys at the cashier. They are definitely not good for you.

5. KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS

After grocery shopping, keep your receipts and review them, so you can see how much you spent, notice your habits and possibly change some. Storing your receipts will also help you keep track of all your expenses and manage your budget.