Shop with your list and not with your stomach.
The costs of family life have a way of mounting up. Cutting costs is not always about cutting corners and sacrificing on quality.
The costs of family life have a way of mounting up. Cutting costs is not always about cutting corners and sacrificing on quality. When we hit the supermarket for the weekly shop, there are a few things we can do to minimise overspending.
Make A List
We all fall into the trap of over-shopping when we fail to write down a list, believing the list in our head is enough. Before heading to the shop, check the presses, the fridge and double-check how many loo rolls are left. Write down what you need and be strict with yourself by sticking to the list.
Work Within A Budget
Regardless of what your budget is, aim to work within that figure or preferably, below it. If you must, use a calculator as you go through the aisles. You won’t be the only one! Shop essentials first before looking at anything else.
Eat First
Shop with your list and not with your stomach. How often have you walked through the aisles only to be enticed by the smell of the artisan bread simply because you were hungry? Never shop on an empty stomach because hunger can impair your judgement and encourage you to pick up the tastiest looking item regardless of the price tag or whether you need it.
Opt for Store Brands
We can often be put off by generic packaging, but store brands do not necessarily mean lesser quality or bland flavours. Don’t be afraid to experiment with own brand items which are often much cheaper than their branded counterparts. In fact, shop around to ensure you are getting value for your money.
Mind the Date
Get the most out of your products and ensure you are buying the freshest quality products which will hopefully last that little bit longer. Always check the expiration and use-by dates.
Beware Clever Marketing
There are plenty of tricks of the trade to be aware of when it comes to marketing. End of the line “dump bins” and island displays are there to stop you in your tracks and forage for special offers you had no intention of purchasing.
Clever marketers will place higher-priced items in the middle shelves at eye level. Recipe related items will be placed together encouraging you to buy more than you need and at a higher price. And remember, if you’re only picking up milk, close your eyes to the shelves. Milk, bread and other essentials are usually at the back of the shop enticing you to shop more.
What are your supermarket tricks?
