5 Brilliant Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store
Groceries are expensive. Most American families spend between $150 and $300 per week on groceries—and that’s not including fast food and restaurant purchases. Here’s how to (easily) cut costs and make the most of each shopping trip:
1. Download Ibotta.
There are a lot of rebate apps out there, but Ibotta is the best of the best. If you haven’t downloaded it yet, fair warning: You’re going to be obsessed. Ibotta features new cash-back opportunities on certain brands or types of food each week. Before you shop, scroll through the app and add items to your shopping list. When you get home, take a photo of your receipt and scan the items barcodes. That’s it! Free money.
2. Give these brands your email address and receive hundreds of dollars in coupons.
Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, and Tablespoon will each send up to $250 worth of coupons per year straight to your inbox in exchange for your email address. That’s $750, you guys.
WATCH: How to Make 10 Costco Chicken Dinners
3. Always come prepared.
Oh, what a difference a shopping list makes. It seems obvious, but going to the grocery store unprepared is like going to a war zone in a bathing suit—it’s not gonna go well. When you don’t know exactly why you’re there, you’ll end up with things you don’t actually want or need. A list will keep your eyes on the prize.
4. Become a mystery shopper.
Get paid to shop—yes, really. Mystery shopping is a market research method employed by a ton of your favorite chains. Here’s how it works: Companies will pay you to shop at their stores, ask specific questions, and then provide feedback about the quality of service you received.
5. Shop in-season.
Produce is generally a lot cheaper when it’s in season. When it’s out of season, save money by buying it frozen. It’ll will probably taste better, too, so it’s really a win-win. Here’s a handy list from the USDA that outlines when certain fruits and vegetables are in season.