Saving money on groceries is important to many households. With the average New Zealand family spending around $9,500 on groceries each year,1 it’s no surprise why. Reducing your food budget doesn’t require hours of clipping coupons. Here are seven easy ways to save at the checkout.
Plan meals around what’s on special
Many people plan weekly meals and then look for deals to match their menu. You may be able to find some savings this way, but can potentially save more by searching the ads first. Swapping cuts of meat or buying only seasonal produce can add to your savings.
Go vegetarian a few times a week
It’s likely that meat makes up a big portion of your grocery budget. Going meatless for just a handful of meals each week can help you save. Instead, use black beans, spinach or chickpeas. These filling and healthy sources of protein that are wallet-friendly.
Do a stocktake before you shop
How many times have you purchased something only to realise you already have it at home? Mistakenly replenishing foodstuffs not only increases the grocery bill, but can also lead to food waste. Take stock of your fridge and pantry when making a grocery list to be sure you’re only buying what you need.
Have a snack before leaving the house
You’ve likely heard this tip before, but it bears repeating: Shopping on an empty stomach often leads to impulse purchases. What’s more, grocery shops often place enticing scents (think rotisserie chicken and bakery goods) near the entrance to stimulate hunger. Before you leave home, have a filling snack to keep hunger at bay and your shopping on track.
Shop alone
Any shopping trip can quickly be derailed by bringing too much company. Children beg for unneeded sweets and snacks, and a well-meaning partner can add too many impulse items to the trolley. If possible, leave the spouse and kids at home so you only need to manage your own willpower.
Bring your own music.
Studies have shown that playing slow-tempo music causes customers to slow their shopping speed, linger in stores longer, and ultimately spend more.2 Help keep your pace brisk by popping in headphones and listening to fast-tempo tunes instead. You can even multitask by listening to news podcasts or an audiobook while you shop.
Grow a herb garden.
If you use fresh herbs in your cooking, then cultivating a small herb garden can help reduce your grocery bill. A packet of fresh basil can cost up to $4, and most of it may go to waste if you’re only using a few leaves each week. Instead, buy starter plants for a small garden. Many herbs grow well indoors, giving you fresh herbs even in winter!
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1. Stats NZ, Household Expenditure Statistics: Year ended June 2016
2. The Effects of Background Music on Consumer Behavior
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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