by Rhonda Twitty

Created on: August 15, 2008

In today's economy, saving money is a must. The average American family is really struggling to keep up. The cost of everything is going up except our income level. The cost of groceries seems to be going up just as quickly as gas. So, how does the average family save at the grocery store? Below are a few tip to cut the grocery budget.

One thing is to stay away from junk food. I know that is harder said than done because if you have children they certainly want it. If you absolutely have to have junk food they try to look for sales or coupons. Another way to buy junk food is to buy in bulk. It may actually pay to get a membership a bulk discount store like Sam's. I saved the membership fee in one trip. At these discount stores, you can also buy meat and staples, like rice, flour and sugar, in bulk sized packages. You can separate it when you get home. Some of these items are a big so just make sure you have the storage space before you buy.

Another tip is to grow your own for winter. I realize that summer is coming to an end but this can be an idea for you for next year. Grow your food for winter! I have canned tomatoes, squash, pears, and peaches for winter. That will certainly help this winter. Canning supplies can be a bit expensive so I have found out that I can buy freezer bags in bulk and save more money there as well.

One more thing that you can do to cut the grocery budget is make a list before you leave home and stick to it. I know that sounds simple but it's not. If you set a budget and have a list, then you will be less likely to buy more than you need. If you shop at these big discount stores, some of them have a way were you can order your groceries and then just go and pick it up. They have your order waiting on you! Neat idea! And do not go the grocery store hungry. If you are hungry then you will be more likely to buy last minute, more expensive, items.

There are probably more other ways to save money at the grocery store. But be aware that the decisions you make will affect how your family reacts to meals. I have 4 children and at every meal there is one that is upset with what I have fixed. So I have given up on making everyone happy. Trying to keep everyone happy would cost me a fortune. So I am willing to make some more cuts to help pay for gas. We have to do something because it doesn't seem like we can depend on our government to help.

Learn more about this author, Rhonda Twitty.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.