When we first started living on a tighter budget and living frugally, grocery shopping quickly became one of the biggest challenges.
I remember standing in the store, trying to juggle my list and a toddler who wanted every snack in sight.
I knew we had to stick to the budget, but it felt impossible to get everything we needed without spending too much.
After a few months of trial and error, I found some clever hacks that made shopping more manageable, and I’m excited to share them with you.
If you’ve been wondering how to save money on groceries, these tips will help you do just that without sacrificing what your family needs!
How to Save on Groceries Without Coupons
Saving money on groceries doesn’t have to mean cutting coupons from every flyer.
It’s more about being mindful of what you’re putting in your cart and making smart choices with what’s available.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as paying attention to prices and focusing on what fits within your budget without the hassle of keeping track of coupons.
1. Plan Meals Around Sales
Planning meals around what’s on sale can help stretch your budget further. Take a few minutes to check your store’s weekly flyer or app before making your grocery list. By adjusting meals to fit the deals, you’ll get more for your money without having to use coupons.
2. Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk may seem like a bigger upfront cost, but it saves money in the long run. Items like rice, pasta, and canned goods can be stored for a long time. You’ll spend less per unit when you buy larger packages, making this a great way to stretch your budget.
3. Stick to a Grocery List
Walking into a grocery store without a list makes it easy to overspend. Writing down exactly what you need and sticking to it helps you avoid impulse buys. It keeps your grocery bill lower and makes shopping quicker, too!
4. Avoid Pre-Cut or Pre-Packaged Foods
Pre-cut fruits and veggies or pre-packaged snacks might seem convenient, but you’re paying extra for that service. Spend a little time prepping your own food at home to save money. You can even store some of it for the week ahead to keep things simple.
5. Use Store Brands
Store brands are often just as good as the more expensive name brands. Whether it’s cereal, canned goods, or snacks, the store version is almost always cheaper. Switching to these brands can make a noticeable difference in your grocery spending.
6. Shop at Discount Stores
If you have access to stores like Aldi or Grocery Outlet, take advantage of their lower prices. These stores often offer great deals on both brand-name and generic items. You can save a lot by shopping at places known for their low prices.
7. Shop In-Season
Fruits and vegetables are less expensive when they’re in season, so plan your meals accordingly. You’ll not only save money but also get the freshest produce. When out of season, consider switching to frozen options to keep costs down.
8. Buy Frozen Produce
Frozen fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than fresh, and they last longer. Since they’re usually frozen at their peak, they retain most of their nutrients. Keeping a stock of frozen produce in your freezer helps you avoid food waste and save money.
9. Shop Later in the Day
Many grocery stores mark down items, especially perishables like bread, meat, and produce, towards the end of the day. Shopping later gives you the chance to snag these discounted items before they’re gone. It’s a simple way to save on fresh items without sacrificing quality.
10. Limit Processed Snacks
Pre-packaged snacks can quickly add up, and they don’t always offer the best bang for your buck. Try making your own snacks at home, like popcorn, granola bars, or trail mix. Homemade snacks are often healthier and last longer, saving you both time and money.
11. Reduce Meat Consumption
Meat can be one of the most expensive items on your grocery bill. Consider cutting back by incorporating more plant-based meals like soups, stews, or veggie-based dishes. You don’t need to eliminate meat altogether, but even a few meatless meals each week can lead to savings.
12. Use the Unit Price
Comparing the unit price of products (the price per ounce, pound, or liter) can help you figure out what’s really the better deal. Sometimes the larger package isn’t always cheaper, so keep an eye on those labels. This small habit can help you make smarter shopping choices without needing coupons.
13. Shop Once a Week
The more trips you make to the store, the more opportunities there are to spend. By planning your meals and shopping just once a week, you’re less likely to make unnecessary purchases. Plus, it gives you more time at home to spend with your family!
14. Buy Whole Grains
Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and quinoa can go a long way in stretching meals. They’re not only healthier, but they also cost less per serving than many pre-packaged side dishes. Incorporating these into your meals can fill up your family while keeping your budget in check.
15. Cook From Scratch
Pre-made sauces, meals, and convenience foods might save time, but they’re often marked up in price. Learning to cook simple meals from scratch is a great way to save. Start with easy recipes – like baking healthy muffins for breakfast and snacks – and build from there, and you’ll find cooking at home can be just as quick and far more budget-friendly.
16. Preserve Food
If you find a great deal on produce or buy in bulk, preserving food by freezing or canning can save money throughout the year. This way, you’ll have fruits and vegetables on hand even when they’re out of season. You won’t have to rely on more expensive, out-of-season options from the store.
17. Buy Dried Beans and Legumes
Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans and legumes are even more budget-friendly. They take a bit more preparation, but cooking them in bulk and freezing portions can be a time-saver. Adding beans to soups, salads, and casseroles is a cheap way to bulk up meals.
18. Make Your Own Bread
Making bread at home can be much more cost-effective than buying loaves from the store. You don’t need to be a pro baker to do it either; there are plenty of simple recipes that require just a few ingredients. Homemade bread can also be customized to your family’s taste while saving money.
19. Reduce Food Waste
Take a closer look at what you’re throwing away each week. By using leftovers and planning meals around what’s already in your fridge, you’ll waste less and spend less. Turn food scraps into soups, casseroles, or even compost for a small garden if you have one.
20. Shop at Farmers’ Markets
Local farmers’ markets can be a great place to find fresh, seasonal produce at reasonable prices. Shopping there at the end of the day sometimes means extra discounts, as farmers prefer to sell everything rather than take it home. You’ll support local farmers and save money, too.
Apps to Save Money on Groceries
Using apps like Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and Checkout 51 is a great way to save without much extra effort.
These apps work in the background, helping you earn rewards or cash back on things you’re already buying.
As a busy mom, it’s an easy way to stretch your budget while still getting what your family needs.
21. Ibotta
Ibotta is a free app that lets you earn cash back on groceries by scanning your receipts. After shopping, check the app for offers and upload your receipt to claim cash rewards. It’s easy to use and offers rebates on many everyday items.
22. Checkout 51
Similar to Ibotta, Checkout 51 offers cash back on featured products when you upload a receipt. The app updates its offers weekly, giving you new opportunities to save on groceries. You can use it at any store, making it a versatile option for all shoppers.
23. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards gives you points for scanning grocery receipts, which you can then redeem for gift cards. You don’t have to hunt for specific offers; any grocery receipt will earn you points. This makes it a simple way to earn rewards without much effort.
24. Flipp
Flipp is a helpful app for browsing weekly store ads and creating shopping lists. It lets you compare deals from different stores, which can help you find the best prices. It also offers price matching to help you save even more during your grocery trips.
25. Kroger App
For those who shop at Kroger, the store’s app offers personalized discounts and digital coupons. It tracks your spending habits to provide deals on the items you buy most frequently. By using the app, you can maximize savings on every shopping trip.
26. Walmart Savings Catcher
The Walmart Savings Catcher feature automatically compares the prices of your purchases to other stores in your area. If it finds a lower price, Walmart refunds you the difference. This app takes the hassle out of price-matching and saves you money without any extra effort.
27. Target Circle
Target Circle is a rewards program that offers discounts and earns you points on every purchase. You can also access exclusive offers through the app. If you shop at Target regularly, this app can help you save on groceries and household items.
28. Coupons.com
Coupons.com offers a variety of digital coupons that you can apply to your grocery purchases. Some can be loaded directly onto your store loyalty card, while others can be printed and used in-store. It’s a straightforward way to find extra savings on top of your regular grocery budget.
29. Shopkick
With Shopkick, you can earn rewards just for walking into stores, scanning items, and making purchases. The points, or “kicks,” you earn can be redeemed for gift cards. It’s a fun way to turn your regular grocery shopping into extra savings.
30. Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, gives you cash back on online grocery purchases from participating stores. You shop through their portal, and they send you cash back after your purchase is confirmed. It’s an easy way to earn rewards if you prefer online grocery shopping.
31. GetUpside
GetUpside is an app that offers cash back on groceries, gas, and even dining at participating stores and restaurants. All you have to do is shop, upload your receipt, and claim your cash back. It’s a helpful tool for saving money on more than just groceries.
32. Receipt Hog
Receipt Hog lets you earn coins by snapping photos of your grocery receipts. You can then redeem those coins for cash or gift cards. It’s a simple way to earn rewards for your regular grocery shopping trips.
33. SavingStar
SavingStar offers cash back on specific grocery items, much like Ibotta or Checkout 51. You can load offers directly to your store’s loyalty card and get cash back when you purchase those items. It’s a simple, hassle-free way to save a little extra at the store.
34. Dosh
Dosh lets you link your credit or debit card to the app and earn cash back when you shop at participating grocery stores. There are no coupons or receipts to scan, making it one of the easiest ways to save. The cash back goes straight to your Dosh account, which you can transfer to your bank.
35. Boxed
Boxed is an app for buying groceries and household items in bulk, similar to Costco but without the membership fees. It often offers additional promo codes to help you save even more. Shopping in bulk through Boxed can lead to significant savings, especially for pantry staples.
36. Honey
While Honey is best known for online shopping deals, it also has a feature for grocery discounts. The app applies discounts automatically when you shop online for groceries. This is a great way to save without having to search for individual coupons.
How to Save Money on a Low Income (Your Groceries Budget)
When you’re working with a low income, grocery shopping can feel overwhelming, especially when every dollar matters.
It’s about finding that balance between sticking to the budget and making sure your family is fed.
By being thoughtful with how much you’re spending and focusing on making the most of what you have, you can stretch your grocery budget without feeling stressed.
37. Set a Weekly Budget
One of the simplest ways to save on groceries is to set a realistic weekly budget and stick to it. Planning your meals around this budget helps you make the most of every dollar. Keep track of what you’re spending so you can adjust the budget if needed.
38. Meal Plan Around What You Have
Before heading to the store, take a look at what’s already in your pantry and fridge. Plan meals that incorporate those ingredients to avoid buying extras. This cuts down on costs and helps you use up what you already have.
39. Buy Cheaper Cuts of Meat
Opting for cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs or pork shoulder, can save a lot over time. These cuts are often more flavorful and work well in slow-cooked or one-pot meals. You’ll still get plenty of protein, but at a fraction of the cost.
40. Stretch Meals with Grains and Legumes
Adding rice, beans, or lentils to dishes is a great way to make meals more filling without spending more money. They’re inexpensive and work well in soups, casseroles, and salads. You can easily stretch out a meal with just a little extra grain or legumes.
41. Batch Cook
Batch cooking is a great way to save both time and money. Make larger portions of meals and freeze them in individual servings for later. This way, you’re not tempted to spend money on takeout when you’re too tired to cook.
42. Look for Clearance Items
Many stores mark down perishable items like meat, dairy, and bakery goods as they near their expiration date. These clearance items are still good to eat if you use them quickly or freeze them. Take advantage of these deals to save big on groceries.
43. Eat Before You Shop
Heading to the grocery store on an empty stomach often leads to buying snacks and treats you don’t need. Eat a small meal or snack before shopping to avoid these temptations. It helps you stick to your list and keeps your grocery bill in check.
44. Drink Water
Cutting out sugary drinks like soda and juice can save you a lot of money. Drinking water is not only cheaper but also healthier. You can even invest in a reusable water bottle to take with you on the go, so you’re never tempted to buy bottled drinks.
45. Make Coffee at Home
Buying coffee from a cafe every day can quickly add up. Instead, brew your coffee at home and bring it with you in a travel mug. It’s a small change, but over time, you’ll save a significant amount of money.
46. Grow Your Own Herbs
Herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can be expensive to buy fresh. Growing your own herbs at home is easy and requires minimal space. Having fresh herbs on hand also makes cooking more fun and flavorful!
How to Save Money Buying Groceries
Saving money on groceries doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
By staying mindful of your budget and using a few simple strategies, you can make grocery shopping less stressful and more affordable.
Whether it’s through smart shopping habits or taking advantage of helpful apps, the key is finding what works for you and your family.
Every little bit helps, and with some consistency, those savings will start to add up in no time!
For more money-saving tips for your family, make sure to follow me on Pinterest!
