Most people know that in order to save money, one should eat out less and eat in more. However, even some of us who have mastered saving money at the grocery might be doing some wasteful habits that are not so savvy. These bad habits can actually cost us more in the long run. Take a look at my top 8 wasteful grocery shopping habits from Savvy Sugar, and get rid of them once and for all.
- It's wasteful when you don't check what's left in your pantry and fridge: Before you head to the grocery store, do a quick inventory of what's left in your kitchen. Not checking what's left in your kitchen can make you buy more things than you actually need. I always eat everything in the fridge before heading out to the grocery store or farmers market. It's wasteful to throw away food, it's like throwing away money!
- It's wasteful when you don't make a grocery list: Having a grocery list can help you shop faster and, of course, get everything you need. Forgetting to buy something is not only annoying and wastes time, but it also wastes money. When is the last time you went to the store to pick up that one thing you forgot to buy and ended up with a few extra things in your basket?
- It's wasteful when you go to the store hungry: We've all made this mistake. Going to the grocery store hungry is a surefire way to buy things you don't really need. Try not to shop with your nose, and avoid the freshly baked section if possible. I've gotten better at doing this:)
- It's wasteful when you use a large shopping cart: Using a spacious shopping cart can trick your mind into buying more things than you need. Try grocery shopping with a basket or a smaller cart, and you'll be less inclined to pile things on. I personally use my reusable burlap bag when I shop, when it's almost filled, that means I'm done shopping!
- It's wasteful when you don't bring a reusable shopping bag: Many states are moving toward charging customers for grocery bags, and while paper bags are only 10 cents each, they sure can add up year after year. Some supermarkets give you credit towards your purchase when you bring your own bag. I always have a few bags in the car (just in case).
- It's wasteful when you don't compare prices: Not only should you be comparing prices between different brands, but you should also be comparing the price of different sizes within a brand. Should you buy in bulk or individually? Should you buy the larger, family-sized bottle or a smaller one? Try calculating the price per pound or ounce to see which is a more frugal choice. Also retailers like to put the most expensive products at eye level, so try looking at the top or bottom shelves for better prices.
- It's wasteful when you buy overpriced "convenient" foods: We've all heard the saying, "time is money." But is it really? While it might save you a couple extra minutes to buy shredded carrot, sliced pineapples, and peeled garlic, let's compare the prices: at one store, peeled garlic costs $5.49 a pound, whereas unpeeled garlic costs 79 cents a pound. That's almost seven times more expensive!
- It's wasteful when you don't check your receipt: Start a habit of checking your receipt to see if there were any mistakes. You can even use that time to really think about whether you need everything you just bought. Most grocery stores will accept returns for a full refund. I have even returned an item after bringing it home, since it wasn't something I really needed.
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