by Heidi Jame

Created on: August 05, 2008   Last Updated: August 22, 2008

Trying to save some green at the grocery store? With all of the attractive packaging, pleasant music, and savory smells you encounter at the grocery store, this can be a daunting challenge. But never fear! It's easy to save money at the market if you follow these simple tips.
1) Make a list and stick to it! Making a list forces you to determine what items you actually need for the meals you will be preparing. And if you stay strong and only buy what is on your list you will spend less money than if you entered the store without a game plan.

2) Search high and low! Brand name items are going to be at eye level but that doesn't make them cheaper just because you don't have to bend or reach to get at them. These companies have paid for a highly visible spot on the shelf so they are likely to cost more than the generic brand of cereal on the bottom shelf.
3) Use coupons with caution. While some coupons will save you money, others might force you to buy more of an item than you want or need. Be sure to read the coupon before you decide to use it. It is also a good idea to compare prices to see if the coupon is making a difference in price or if you can spend less by choosing another brand.
4) Always check for sales and specials. Maybe you had planned to make grilled chicken for dinner tomorrow night but then you notice that pork tenderloin is on sale right now. So buy pork tenderloin this week and have chicken some other time! You can save quite a bit of money over time if you are flexible with your menu.
5) Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season. Whatever the store is able to get locally and in abundance is going to be cheaper. For example, buy apples and squash in the fall, peaches and corn in the summer. Easy, right? Frozen vegetables are also a good option to save money and they won't go bad if you don't use them right away.
6) Take your time! Make sure you have a time to bargain hunt and compare prices. If you don't have to rush you can be sure that you are getting the absolute best deals before you head to the checkout.
7) Buy commonly used items in bulk. Some items may come with a higher price tag, but will save you money in the long run. For example, stores often package meats in club packs which reduce your overall cost per pound. Remember, you can always freeze what you don't use right away.
Following these tips will save you money at the grocery store every time you go and over time that can add up to big savings!

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