How often do you go to the grocery store? Did you know the monthly cost of groceries for a family of four is between $996-$1603? Couples spend an average of $614-$963 each month. Whether you use a budget or not, money is one of the issues most couples argue about. Since grocery shopping is a task every marriage navigates, how can you do it well? Are there some practices you can implement that will provide your family with nutritious meals and also save money? We think so.
Here are some suggestions for how to lower your monthly grocery expenses:
1. Budget for food.
When we were first married, our income was extremely limited. At one point, we were living on an income of $500/month. Heidi remembers walking around the grocery store with a calculator so that if our groceries exceeded the budgeted amount, she could decide what items to put back on the shelf. A budget gives you the freedom to control your spending. When you stick to your food budget, you meet financial goals in other areas of your life.
2. Plan a weekly menu…and stick to it.
Many people waste money on impulsive purchases. Food is no exception. Sure, it’s more fun to eat out than cook – but it’s also more expensive. By planning a weekly menu, you know which ingredients you must purchase and which items you have in your kitchen. And you can eat leftovers which will also save money.
3. Never shop when you’re hungry.
Your eyes may be larger than your wallet. You will spend more money if you’re hungry.
4. Use grocery reward programs.
This may not save you a ton of money, but every small amount adds up. We typically save $1-$5/week just by using our grocery’s rewards program.
5. Shop alone.
Leave the kids at home with Dad or Mom. Young children and especially teenagers always find foods they desire – or they think are necessities.
6. Be unconventional.
You don’t have to eat meat at every meal. Learn to enjoy a meatless supper. Could you cook eggs, hash browns, and toast one evening for dinner? Raid your pantry once every couple weeks and make a “mystery meal.” You’ll waste less food and also make eating an adventure for your family.
7. Visit two or three grocery stores each week.
This past week Heidi did our grocery shopping at two stores and she also purchased some groceries at Costco. She bought the “loss leaders” (hyper-discounted items to attract customers into the store) at the more expensive grocery and then did her regular shopping at our usual store. She then went to Costco for specific items (yogurt, cereal, milk) that we usually buy in bulk. It’s important to emphasize – don’t run all over town to different stores. Only visit several groceries if they’re in close proximity and limit yourself to one or two trips to the store each week. Also, keep a cooler in your car so your purchases can stay cold.
8. Check your receipt.
Some groceries may fail to give you the sale price. If you bring this to their attention, you may get the item for free, or at least you get the sale price. Stores often give rain checks for sale items that are out of stock. Ask them.
9. Compare the price per unit when selecting sizes.
Occasionally the larger size isn’t the least expensive. Often it may benefit you to purchase two smaller sizes that actually equal the larger size. Also, only purchase items in bulk if you will use them. Otherwise, you just wasted your money.
10. Pray.
This may sound strange, but pray you’ll find great deals and be a wise steward of the resources God has given you and your family. God cares about your needs and your finances.
Applying these suggestions will stretch your dollars and decrease marital stress. Try them out and you will not only save money, you’ll build your marriage!