by Kim Everett

Created on: August 07, 2008   Last Updated: August 28, 2008

Consumers are being forced to search for creative ways to cut expenses in today's tough economy, and the grocery budget is one of the main areas that large price increases are being felt.

There are a few simple ways to save money at the grocery store, and in most cases, the only sacrifice necessary is a small amount of time. One important way to save is to have the grocery store's membership card if they offer one. It only takes a few minutes to complete the application, and it results in noticeable savings. Not only does it guarantee savings on groceries, it often nets the user a substantial discount on gasoline. For example, some stores offer a 10 cent per gallon discount for every $100 spent in the store. These savings can add up quickly.

In addition, most stores publish a sale ad each week. To save money, plan a weekly menu around items that are on sale. Planning a menu is essential for the sake of convenience, and it also helps add variety to meals. Therefore, since the time is already being spent, it is no trouble to plan the menu using the ad. Also, when items are being sold at a discount, buy extra if storage is not a problem.

Coupons are helpful, as well. It is simple to go through the newspaper and cut them out while watching television, and using them can add up to big savings, especially if the grocery store doubles or triples the coupon amounts. Coupons can be found on-line as well by searching on specific products or brands. There are some sites dedicated entirely to coupons, and although finding them can take a little time, the savings justify the time spent.

Another tip, which sounds simple but many forget, is to check the expiration dates of all items purchased. Be sure to get items with the farthest dates to avoid having to throw things away. Even if something is offered at a discount, it isn't a good deal if it expires before it is used.

Wholesale stores such as Sam's and Costco are good places to buy some items. For example, large packages of steaks, pork chops, and ground beef can be purchased and separated into smaller portions before freezing. Canned goods are available at wholesale stores in six packs and are usually less expensive than purchasing singles. Again, this is only beneficial if storage is not a problem. One more tip for saving at wholesale stores is to shop with a friend and split perishable items like large bags of fruit and vegetables.

The last two suggestions are the two most common rules for grocery shopping. Everyone knows them, but some people have trouble following them. Never go to the store hungry and always have a list of needed items. No one ever adheres strictly to the list, but it does help, and with the rising price of groceries, consumers need all the help they can get.

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