Tired of high grocery bills? Here are simple ways to slash your summer grocery bill this summer!
Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and enjoying the great outdoors. But with kids home from school and more gatherings with friends and family, your grocery bill can skyrocket.
Fear not! Here are 21 creative and effective ways to slash your summer grocery bill, so you can enjoy the season without breaking the bank.
23 Simple Ways to Slash Your Summer Grocery Bill
1. Plan Your Meals
Meal planning is a game-changer. Spend a little time each week planning your meals around what’s on sale and what you already have in your pantry. This reduces food waste and ensures you’re only buying what you need.
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2. Shop Seasonal Produce
Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only fresher but also cheaper. Visit your local farmer’s market or look for seasonal produce at the grocery store to get the best deals.
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3. Grow Your Own Herbs and Vegetables
Even if you don’t have a green thumb, growing your own herbs and vegetables can save you money. Start with easy-to-grow plants like basil, mint, tomatoes, and peppers. You can grow them in pots if you don’t have a garden.
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4. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing in bulk can save you a significant amount of money. Items like grains, beans, nuts, and pasta are great for bulk buying. Just make sure you have enough storage space.
5. Take Advantage of Sales and Coupons
Keep an eye out for sales and use coupons whenever possible. Combine store sales with manufacturer coupons for maximum savings.
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6. Use a Cash-Back Credit Card
If you’re disciplined about paying off your credit card each month, using a cash-back credit card for your grocery purchases can put some money back in your pocket.
7. Shop at Discount Stores
Stores like Aldi offer great prices on groceries. Don’t be afraid to check out local discount grocers for lower-priced alternatives.
8. Cook from Scratch
Convenience foods come with a higher price tag. Cooking from scratch not only saves money but is also healthier. Make large batches of meals and freeze them for quick and easy dinners.
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9. Make a Shopping List and Stick to It
Impulse buys can quickly add up. Make a list before you head to the store and stick to it. Avoid shopping when you’re hungry to resist those tempting extras.
10. Use Leftovers Creatively
Don’t let leftovers go to waste. Transform them into new meals. For example, roast chicken can become chicken salad or a chicken stir-fry.
11. DIY Snacks and Drinks
Pre-packaged snacks and drinks are convenient but expensive. Make your own granola or oatmeal bars, trail mix, and flavored waters. This not only saves money but also allows you to control the ingredients.
12. Join a Grocery Co-Op
Grocery co-ops often offer lower prices on bulk items and produce. Plus, you can get involved in your local community and meet like-minded frugal friends.
13. Cut Back on Meat
Meat is usually one of the most expensive items on the grocery list. Incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. Beans, lentils, and tofu are affordable and nutritious alternatives.
14. Preserve Summer Bounty
When summer produce is at its peak and cheapest, buy in bulk and preserve it. Canning, freezing, and drying fruits and vegetables can provide you with off-season savings.
15. Shop with a Calculator
Keep a running tally of your spending while you shop. This helps you stay within your budget and makes you more conscious of your spending habits.
16. Use Store Loyalty Programs
Many grocery stores offer loyalty programs that give you access to special discounts and coupons. Sign up and take advantage of these savings.
17. Host Potluck Gatherings
Instead of shouldering the entire cost of a summer barbecue or party, host a potluck. Ask guests to bring a dish to share, which lightens the financial load and adds variety to the meal.
If you do decide to grill, here are some tips to save:
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18. Check Unit Prices
Sometimes, larger packages aren’t the best deal. Always check the unit price (price per ounce, pound, etc.) to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
19. Shop the Perimeter
The perimeter of the store usually has the freshest and least processed foods. Focus on these areas to buy healthier and often cheaper items.
20. Batch Cook and Freeze Meals
Prepare large quantities of your favorite meals and freeze them in portions. This not only saves money but also time on busy days.
21. Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies
Many common household items can double as cleaning supplies. Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used to make effective, non-toxic cleaning solutions at a fraction of the cost of store-bought cleaners.
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22. Use Reusable Bags
Many stores offer discounts for bringing your own bags. It’s a small savings, but it adds up over time and helps the environment.
23. Save with Ibotta and Fetch Rewards
Ibotta and Fetch are fantastic apps for saving money on groceries. With Ibotta, you can earn cash back on everyday purchases by scanning your receipts and redeeming offers.
Fetch Rewards makes it even easier—simply scan your grocery receipts, and you’ll earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards.
Both apps are user-friendly and offer a wide range of participating stores and products. Stack these savings with coupons and sales for maximum benefits.
By incorporating these frugal strategies into your routine, you can enjoy a bountiful summer without straining your budget.
Remember, every small saving adds up, and with a little planning and creativity, you can slash your summer grocery bill and make the most of the season.
Happy saving!