How to Grocery Shop on a Budget

Food is a basic human need and one of our essential expenses we just can’t go without.

But with the cost of living on the rise, finding ways to make your dollar go further at the grocery store can really impact your monthly budget.

The average cost of monthly groceries for a family of four is about $975.3.

Whether you are learning how to grocery shop on a budget for four people, two, or just yourself, this article will guide you through the process, ensuring you don’t compromise on quality or variety.

Grocery Shopping on a Budget

When you’re grocery shopping on a budget, planning and being mindful of your spending can save you a lot. Start by setting a realistic grocery budget that works for you—and stick to it! Focus on buying only what you really need, and keep an eye out for deals like seasonal items, sales, or bulk discounts.

By following these strategies, you can easily shop on a budget for two or more people without sacrificing variety or quality. Keep reading for more detailed tips and tricks to help you make the most of your grocery budget!

1. Allocate a Budget for Groceries

The first step to grocery shopping on a tight budget is to set a clear budget based on what you actually need–not just your paycheck.

Start by tracking how much you’re currently spending on groceries each month.

Once you have that number, set a realistic budget for groceries.

This helps you focus on buying only what you truly need and will actually use, so you avoid overspending and cut down on wasted leftovers.

Note: Your grocery budget should be different from the money you allocate for dining out. This ensures that unplanned dining out doesn’t cut into your grocery funds. It also keeps your budget balanced and accommodating to both essentials and little luxuries.

2. Eat Before You Shop

This might sound like common sense, but it’s worth reiterating because of how easy it is to overspend on groceries when you’re hungry.

In fact, a study revealed that most respondents (76%) admit they tend to overspend when they shop for groceries on an empty stomach.

So if you want to save money on groceries, try grocery shopping on a full stomach.

This can help you resist grabbing that extra bar of candy by the check out counter.

3. Create a Meal Plan

Cooking in bulk and planning your meals in advance can be a real game-changer for grocery shopping on a budget.

Not only does it support a healthy lifestyle, but it also saves time and money and simplifies your daily cooking routine.

In fact, 29% of Americans already plan their meals for the entire week, making meal prepping a growing trend nationwide.

It’s not too difficult too–just allot a few hours over the weekend to preparing large quantities of staple items such as rice, roasted vegetables, and grilled fish or chicken.

Once everything is cooked, portion the food into containers so you can easily grab them throughout the week.

4. Make a Grocery List and Stick to It

Creating a grocery list before you head over to the store is more than just being organized—it’s a smart strategy to keep your spending in check when grocery shopping on a budget for one or more people.

A study by Dole found that 56% of Americans typically use a list, and most of them agreed that it really helps curb overspending.

To create a cheap grocery list, start by taking stock of what you already have in your pantry and fridge. Then, make a list of what you actually need, organizing it by categories to make your shopping easier. For example, you could divide your list into the following sections:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Dairy
• Proteins
• Grains
• Condiments

When you’re at the grocery store, make sure to stick to your list. If you spot something that isn’t on your list, take a moment to think it over before tossing it in your cart.

Try it out and see how much you could save on your next trip!

5. Buy What’s in Season

Food prices can change depending on the season.

When items are out of season, they’re usually harder to find and priced more expensive.

To grocery shop healthy on a budget, choose foods that are in season. This not only saves money but also lets you enjoy fresher, tastier, and more nutritious produce.

Take a look at the table below to find the best produce to buy for every season in the U.S.:

6. Purchase in Bulk

Buying in bulk is a great way to save money on groceries, but the trick is to only buy items you are sure you will use.

We can easily get carried away in bulk stores. This, unfortunately, leads to having a bunch of stuff you can’t use or that expires before you get the chance to enjoy it.

So, shop mindfully and buy only what you need. This strategy works best for staples that you consistently need, such as toothpaste, toilet paper, batteries, and dog food.

Don’t forget to account for these bulk buys in your monthly budget. If you’re planning a big, costly shopping trip every other month to stock up, make sure this is reflected in your budget. Without proper planning, a bulk shopping spree could disrupt your financial plans for the month.

To help you manage your monthly expenses and time your bulk purchases effectively, use Cushion. This app not only lets you track your spending but also offers seamless integration with your Google Calendar. By syncing your shopping schedules and bill due dates directly into your calendar, Cushion makes it easy to see your financial commitments at a glance. Prevent any overlap or missed payments and simplify your financial planning with Cushion.

Related article: 8 Ways to Build an Outdoor Kitchen on a Budget

Summary

Mastering how to grocery shop on a budget can significantly trim your monthly expenses.

Start by setting a realistic grocery budget and make it a habit to eat before you shop to avoid impulse purchases.

By planning your meals in advance, buying essentials in bulk, and choosing in-season produce, you can further maximize your savings.

Implement these strategies to enjoy nutritious meals without breaking the bank and maintain a balanced budget month after month.