The Big Secret to Saving Money at The Grocery Store

_{Surprisingly easy ways to help you save money on food and groceries, including tips on how to find the best prices, and avoid grocery store tricks. Learn the big secret to saving money at the grocery store.}

Grocery bag filled with fresh produce with text overlay - the secret to saving big at the grocery store is not the couponing

The Big Secret to Saving Money at The Grocery Store – Is Not The Couponing!

You are at the supermarket. The lighting is low, and the smell of freshly baked bread is in the air. Yet, you walked in with an idea that you needed to stock up. As you checkout, you don’t understand how you overspent.

Today, you are looking for more ways to save at the grocery store. That is FABULOUS!!! Let’s do this! Saving money any way you can is a big deal. The easiest and most efficient way to save first is at the supermarket.

The Biggest Secret to saving at the grocery store….SHHHHHHH…… Did you know the Big secret to saving money at the grocery store is not how you coupon? Seriously, did I say that?

Yes, I know it is hard to believe, but it is true. You don’t need to be considered an “extreme couponer” to join in on the savings. There are numerous and simple ways that anyone can save money on groceries.

Today, I share my biggest tip and secret to couponing. Without this tip, you could actually end up spending more money and think you are saving.

grocery shopping saving money not couponing - woman shopping in cold case section of the grocery store

The Secret

The SECRET is knowing what price you should pay for a product. It’s easy to get swept up in a sale, especially those famous buy one, get one deals, or 50 – 60% off sales.

At the very least, you need to know your everyday prices on the items you purchase frequently. Once you get those basic numbers down, you will know the difference between a good price and a great price. Knowing your prices should come easily to you if you are the primary grocery shopper.

However, if you are not sure, the next time you go to the grocery store for a little shopping, make it a point to start keeping a mental list of the items you purchase regularly.

You can even go one step further and start a list at home. After all, who could know the best price for every item from memory?

When your favorite items are at their lowest rock-bottom price, that is when you purchase them and stock up for the next sale. Remember that grocery store prices fluctuate every 6-8 weeks. (Learn about Sale Cycles Here)

When to use coupons

The BEST time to use coupons is when you can pair them with a sale (or the lowest price point for that item). Spending your money wisely and making the best possible decisions while shopping, will greatly improve your savings at the store.

If you plan well for your grocery shopping trip, your battle is only half over. There are many ways to save at the supermarket and many pitfalls that need to be avoided. Now hey, if you want to start tracking your savings, we have an absolutely free grocery savings tracker spreadsheet. You can grab it here.

You can also check out this great list of money savings smartphone apps.

Meal planning saving money not couponing - two lunched prepped on table in airtight containers

More Tips To Saving At The Grocery Store

Don’t go into the store hungry
Make a list before you go (and stick with it)
Don’t get caught up in marketing tactics (Learn more here)
Understand what loss leaders are (Use them to your advantage)
Meal plan for the week. (Helps with saving and sanity)
Use money-saving grocery store apps, Fetch & Ibotta

Not all grocery stores are created equal. Scope out local stores that offer better everyday savings.

writing down prices saving money not couponing - woman writing down best prices

The key to staying on budget is following your list and knowing your best prices.

And if you go shopping as a family, let your kids help plan the meals and then find the items. It’s much easier to stay on budget when you’re shopping with a plan and working as a team. It is very easy to say “NO” when an item is not on your list, and you don’t need it.

A few new habits can help you lower your monthly grocery bill.

The Big Secret to Saving Money at The Grocery Store