When living in a tide budget and trying to save up money in any possible way, shopping can sometimes take you out of control, especially when shopping in the huge supermarkets where you find everything and most of the times you end up with things you don't really need.
I have made a small research and compared prices between the packed fruits/veggies and the prices at the open markets. I can assure you that it is cheaper buying 1kg tomatoes in an open market than to buy the pack which includes maybe 2-3 or the ready made salads which are very expensive and it's not worth it. You'd rather buy 3 different kind of veg and make your own salad than to buy it ready.

Here is my way of saving money at the supermarket.
I usually go shopping every other Saturday morning as it is my day off and always take my time as I want to compare prices.
*I never, EVER take my credit card with me as it's so easy to get out of control. I only take cash with me and always a certain amount so I know that I cannot exceed my budget.
*I check my cupboards and fridge and write down what exactly I NEED. *I buy my veggies, fruits,spices and rice from the Asian or Oriental markets where prices are lower, the quantities bigger and I can always store them in jars or containers.
*There are only 2 markets I visit and the reason is that I like making connections with people working there as you become familiar and they are more helpful and if something is not good they always advice you.
*I always go for the offers they have in many products.For example 3 yougurts for £1.00, 4 cans of tuna fish which I love and use it a lot £2.00, 3 packs of pasta or spaghetti £1.00, washing liquid 2 for £1.00, frozen veggies 500gr for £0.75, mayonnaise 2 for £2.00, toast bread 2 for £1.20 and so on.
*Instead of buying fresh meat for the rest of the week,put it in the freezer and pay it more, I buy frozen meat which is guaranteed, quality checked and of course cheaper.
Something else,I never through away the lunch or dinners' leftovers. Either I put them in the freezer and use them another time (and therefore I save up money from shopping)or I cook them with something else.
You have no idea how many times frozen leftovers saved me from hunger as I was waiting for the next payday.

Best of luck!

Learn more about this author, Andian Ko.
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