Grocery prices seem to climb higher with each shopping trip, making it harder to stick to a budget. But with a few smart strategies, you can eat well while keeping your costs under control.

Saving on groceries doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love; it’s all about shopping smarter. By setting a budget, planning meals, and making thoughtful purchasing decisions, you can keep your grocery bill under control while still enjoying nutritious and delicious meals. Try these simple strategies and see how much you can save!

1. Set a Budget Before You Shop

Before you start shopping, decide how much you can afford to spend. Having a clear budget will keep you from overspending and force you to prioritize essential items. Then, track your spending as you shop in-store. Shopping online is a good option as well, as it allows you to see the price of your cart as you update it, just make sure you take into account any service or delivery fees.

2. Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time

Meal planning helps eliminate impulse buys and food waste, and it will help you stick to your budget as well. Take inventory of what you already have at home, then plan meals based on those ingredients and what’s on sale. A well-thought-out meal plan ensures you buy only what you need.

3. Compare Prices Across Stores

Grocery stores price items differently, so it pays to shop around. Check flyers, store apps, and online price comparison tools to find the best deals. Then, you can split or alternate your grocery trips to go where the lower prices are. The savings could very well be worth the extra bit of time and effort.

4. Compare Unit Prices

Bigger packages don’t always mean better deals. Instead of looking at the total price of an item, check the unit price (price per gram or litre) to determine the best value. Most stores display unit prices on the shelf tags, making it easy to compare different sizes and brands. Keep in mind that the store brands of many items often have lower unit prices than name brands while offering nearly identical quality.

5. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs

Grocery stores usually offer loyalty programs that provide discounts, points, or cashback rewards. These programs are free to join and can lead to significant savings, so take the minimal time to sign up, especially for places you shop at often.

6. Buy in Bulk—But Only What You Will Use

Buying in bulk is an easy way to save money as it often results in a lower unit price. However, you’ll only save if you’re purchasing items you’ll actually use before they expire. Stick to non-perishable staples like rice, pasta, canned goods, and household essentials that you use frequently and are always picking up more of.

7. Limit Convenience Foods

Pre-cut fruits, pre-shredded cheese, and single-serving snacks may save time, but they come with a higher price tag. Instead, buy whole ingredients and do the prep work yourself. Not only will this save money, but it also reduces unnecessary packaging waste.

Smart grocery shopping habits can add up to substantial savings over time. By planning ahead and making mindful choices, you can keep more money in your pocket when you shop.