Groceries are one of the biggest monthly expenses for most American households. With food prices still feeling the effects of recent inflation, it’s more important than ever to shop smart. The good news? You don’t need to give up fresh produce or your favorite brands to keep more cash in your pocket.
By making a few simple changes to how you plan, shop, and store food, you can trim your grocery bill significantly. These seven strategies are practical, proven, and easy to start using today—no extreme couponing or hours of clipping required.
1. Plan Meals Around What’s Already in Your Pantry
Before you even think about making a shopping list, take 10 minutes to check what you already have at home. Open your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Look for items that are close to expiring or that you’ve been meaning to use.
Building meals around what’s on hand reduces waste and prevents duplicate purchases. For example, if you have canned tomatoes, pasta, and garlic, you’ve got the base for a quick pasta sauce. That means fewer items on your list—and less spent at the store.
“Most people underestimate how much food they already own,” says Lisa Tran, a registered dietitian and budget meal planner. “Taking inventory first can save $30 or more per week.”
Image suggestion: A well-organized pantry with labeled shelves and visible ingredients like beans, rice, and spices.
Alt text: Organized kitchen pantry with canned goods, grains, and spices for meal planning
2. Use a Shopping List—and Stick to It
It sounds basic, but studies show that shoppers who use a list spend up to 23% less than those who don’t. A list keeps you focused, reduces impulse buys, and helps you avoid buying things you don’t really need.
Make your list detailed. Instead of writing “snacks,” specify “apple slices and peanut butter” or “whole-grain crackers.” This clarity prevents second-guessing at the store and cuts down on unnecessary additions.
Pro tip: Organize your list by store sections—produce, dairy, frozen, etc.—to save time and reduce backtracking, which often leads to unplanned purchases.
Image suggestion: A handwritten grocery list on a notepad next to a smartphone showing a digital list app.
Alt text: Handwritten and digital grocery lists on a kitchen counter
3. Shop Later in the Day for Markdowns
Many grocery stores mark down perishable items like bread, meat, and prepared foods in the late afternoon or evening to clear inventory before closing. These discounts can range from 20% to 50% off.
Timing varies by store, but aim to shop between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. for the best deals. Check with your local store to learn their markdown schedule—some post it online or on their app.
Just be sure to use discounted items quickly. While it’s great to save on a rotisserie chicken, it won’t help if it goes bad before you eat it.
| Store Type | Common Markdown Time |
|---|---|
| Large supermarket chains | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. |
| Local grocery stores | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. |
| Warehouse clubs (e.g., Costco) | Varies; often midday |
4. Buy Store Brands Instead of Name Brands
Store brands—like Kroger’s Simple Truth, Target’s Good & Gather, or Walmart’s Great Value—are often just as good as name brands but cost 20% to 40% less. Many are made in the same factories as national brands.
Start by trying store-brand versions of staples like pasta, canned beans, cereal, and dairy products. You might be surprised by the quality. If you like them, stick with them. If not, go back to your favorite—but at least you gave it a fair shot.
“Store brands have improved dramatically over the past decade,” says consumer advocate Mark Reynolds. “For everyday items, they’re a no-brainer for saving money.”
Image suggestion: Side-by-side comparison of a name-brand cereal box and a store-brand version with similar packaging.
Alt text: Name brand and store brand cereal boxes on a grocery shelf
5. Use Cashback Apps and Digital Coupons
You don’t need paper coupons to save. Free apps like Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and Checkout 51 let you earn cash back on groceries you’re already buying. Just scan your receipt or upload it after shopping.
Many stores also offer digital coupons through their apps. Load them before you shop, and the discount is automatically applied at checkout. Combine these with manufacturer coupons for even bigger savings.
Be selective, though. Only use offers for items you’d buy anyway. Don’t let a “deal” trick you into purchasing something unnecessary.
- Ibotta: Earn cash back on thousands of products
- Fetch Rewards: Scan any receipt to earn points
- Store apps: Kroger, Safeway, and others offer exclusive digital deals
6. Buy in Bulk—But Only When It Makes Sense
Bulk buying can save money, but only if you actually use what you buy. Non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods are great candidates. So are frozen vegetables and meats, which last for months.
Avoid bulk purchases of fresh produce, bread, or dairy unless you have a large family or plan to freeze portions. Spoiled food means wasted money—no matter how low the unit price.
Compare unit prices (price per ounce or pound) on the shelf tag to confirm you’re really getting a deal. Sometimes smaller packages are cheaper per unit.
Image suggestion: A family organizing bulk-purchased rice, beans, and frozen vegetables in reusable containers.
Alt text: Family storing bulk groceries in airtight containers in pantry and freezer
7. Cook More at Home and Repurpose Leftovers
Eating out less is one of the fastest ways to reduce food spending. Cooking at home gives you control over ingredients and portions—and it’s almost always cheaper than dining out or buying pre-made meals.
Make extra when you cook. Turn last night’s roasted chicken into today’s chicken salad or soup. Use leftover veggies in an omelet or stir-fry. A little creativity turns leftovers into new meals, not waste.
Batch cooking on weekends can also save time and money during busy weekdays. Prepare grains, proteins, and chopped veggies in advance, then mix and match for quick dinners.
“Repurposing leftovers is a game-changer,” says home cook and blogger Jenna Lee. “It cuts down on both spending and food waste—two wins in one.”
Final Thoughts
Saving money on groceries doesn’t mean eating less or settling for lower quality. With a little planning and smart habits, you can feed your family well while keeping your budget intact.
Start with one or two of these tips and build from there. Small changes add up over time. Before you know it, you’ll be spending less at the store and feeling more confident about your food choices.
Key Takeaways
- Check your pantry before shopping to avoid buying duplicates
- Use a detailed shopping list and stick to it
- Shop later in the day for markdowns on perishables
- Try store brands—they’re often just as good and much cheaper
- Use cashback apps and digital coupons for extra savings
- Buy in bulk wisely—only for items you’ll use
- Cook at home and repurpose leftovers to stretch your meals
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I really save by using a grocery list?
On average, shoppers who use a list spend 20–25% less than those who don’t. That can mean $50 or more in savings per month for a typical household.
Are store brands really as good as name brands?
Yes, in many cases. Store brands are often manufactured by the same companies that make national brands. Taste tests frequently show little to no difference.
What’s the best time to shop for discounts?
Most stores mark down perishables in the late afternoon or evening, typically between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Call your local store to confirm their schedule.
Do cashback apps really pay out?
Yes, apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards are free to use and pay real cash or gift cards. Just make sure to upload receipts promptly and meet minimum payout thresholds.
Should I always buy the largest package to save money?
Not necessarily. Always check the unit price (price per ounce or pound) on the shelf tag. Sometimes smaller packages offer better value, especially if you won’t use the bulk amount before it expires.
How can I avoid food waste while saving money?
Plan meals, store food properly, and repurpose leftovers. Freezing extras and using clear containers in the fridge helps you see what needs to be eaten first.
Is it worth joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club?
It depends on your household size and shopping habits. If you have a family and can use bulk items before they expire, the membership fee can pay for itself in savings.