by Tena Kight

Created on: June 19, 2010

Want to save money on the groceries but don't know where to start?  Try these basic tips to get you started saving with out a hassle.

1. Make a plan.

Do a quick inventory of your cabinets. Then plan your meals around what groceries you already have on hand. Make a list of the items you'll need and stick to it to eliminate spontaneous spending. You can use your favorite stores weekly sales paper to help plan the menu for extra savings.

2. Watch for bargains.

Try the generic brands before you assume they aren't as good as your favorite brand name items. Purchase in bulk or “family size” when the unit price is cheaper. You can always repackage the items into smaller ones at home. Use coupons. They aren't as timely to collect as they used to be. You can find them in store circulars or on-line. You don't have to have a mile high stack of coupons, just use the ones that are easy for you to obtain. You can start small, one coupon is better than none.

3. Drink out of a glass.

Individually packaged drinks usually cost more. You have to pay for a bottle, can, or box each time you grab a drink. Purchase the larger units and use a glass when you're thirsty. Drinks like tea and cool-aid are easy to make and store at home. Skip the bottled water. You already pay for water to come to your sink and maybe even your refrigerator door, why pay for more in a bottle?  Soda's cost less if purchased by the liter instead of individual cans or bottles too.

4. Do more food preparation yourself.

Pre-cooked meals are most likely going to cost more than meals you prepare yourself. Also, for a little of your time you can save considerably by just chopping your own veggies, shredding your own cheese, and slicing your own fruit. Even dried beans are less expensive than the pre-cooked canned ones.

5. Don't waste.

Don't “habit shop.” Notice what foods you are throwing out and cut back on them. Sometimes we pick up items just because it's our shopping routine. Be creative with leftovers. You can freeze a lot of veggies and meats to use later. This is a great way to fix a fast meal or stretch one for unexpected guest.

These tips will help get you started saving money on groceries. You will find these steps quickly become easy to do routines that put money back in your pocket.

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