Exclusive Insider Tips – How to Score the Grocery Deals
Prices vary significantly from store to store and online. Take the time to compare prices, particularly on items you use regularly that can freeze.
Shop mid-week (weekday mornings are best) when stores are less crowded. That also means the bakery, deli, and produce will likely be fresher.
Look for the best deals on the front page.
Grocery stores place their hottest deals on the front page of their weekly sales flyers. Retailers know that consumers will skip the rest of the ad if something doesn’t grab their attention immediately.
However, just because an item is labeled with a brightly colored “top deal” or “lowest price ever” sticker doesn’t mean it’s the cheapest option. Compare prices with other items and store-brand products before buying.
If you don’t need more time to scour all the local grocery stores’ ads each week, consider downloading an app to help you compare prices. These apps also identify coupons and rebates for a wide range of products.
Look for critical holidays.
Grocery stores constantly battle for your business, but it gets extra heated around critical holidays. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are big weeks for grocery stores, and they will do almost anything to get you in the door.
That’s why it can be worth comparing the ads from different stores in your area to see who has the best deals. Remember to check out apps to see what deals are available for your store before you shop. You can also check some online stores that offer some discounts like Walmart coupons. These can save you a lot of money. And remember that it’s always a good idea to stock up on items you know you will use when they are at their lowest price.
Look for BOGO (buy one get one free) deals.
Shopping at a grocery store that offers the best prices for your needs can help you save money. Look for stores with deals on specific items (such as a bottle of wine that usually retails for $30 but is on sale for $5.99) and stock up.
Many grocery stores also offer loyalty programs that give you exclusive coupons and savings. Find out which are available in your area and consider joining one before your next shopping trip.
Also, consider comparing prices between different grocery stores and using online grocery services or in-store pickup options when they have sales. The savings can add up quickly.
Look for double coupon days.
There aren’t many stores that offer double coupons anymore, but local grocers often do. Check with them to find out the days they double coupons.
Stores that do offer this promotion typically double coupons up to $1 in value, meaning you can get two boxes of Kraft macaroni for the price of one when they’re on sale, and you have a coupon.
Also, be sure to shop for sales on items you regularly use, such as paper towels, eggs, and canned vegetables. These products go on sale at predictable times, including after holidays. Keeping track of these cycles can help you save on your grocery bill. Also, look for apps to give you cash back on your purchases.
Look for sales on non-perishables.
Buying non-perishable items in bulk is one of the best ways to save on groceries. Look for stores that offer coupons and sales on staples like rice, oats, pasta, and canned vegetables, then slowly build up your supplies over time.
Also, watch for sales on non-perishables like canned soup, cornflakes, and toilet paper. Many supermarkets cover their tills with these necessities that are nearing their expiration dates to encourage impulse buys.
Shop around by comparing grocery store ads online or using apps that compare prices and items. And don’t forget to check your local ethnic markets and farmers markets, which may have lower prices than traditional supermarkets.
Look for sales on frozen foods.
Often, store brands are made by the same companies as name-brand items, and switching to them can save you up to 30% without clipping coupons. Try the store brand at least once, and if you like it, make the switch.
Shop during non-peak times when you’re less likely to overspend and look for online grocery delivery services. They can help you avoid the impulse buys of a busy supermarket and may offer free shipping.
If you live near multiple grocery stores, consider shopping a few monthly to compare prices. This could save you money on groceries and free up dollars for other needs, such as debt repayment or emergency savings.
Look for sales on meat.
Grocery store meat departments often discount packages that will go bad before the sell-by date. That’s a good thing for shoppers since the savings can be substantial.
Generally, these sales are cyclical; look for them several times a year. Note the price and purchase enough to get you through until the next sale cycle.
If you prefer certain meat brands, sign up for their email lists or check grocery apps to see if coupons are available. Also, consider shopping at stores that offer a price-match guarantee. These tips can help you find a great deal on the meats your family loves.
Look for sales on other items.
If you have a particular item on your grocery list, consider buying it at another store that sells it for less. This could save you a bundle, especially on bulk items like toilet paper and diapers.
Shop for groceries during non-peak times. Busy supermarkets can be stressful, and you’re more likely to overspend when your stomach growls. Instead, try shopping on a weekday morning when stores are least busy.
Many grocery stores have loyalty programs that can save you money on future purchases. It’s worth checking out to see if any of the ones near you offer this option. It’s also a good idea to comparison shop for the best deals at different stores.
