DEBT MOM WANTS TO KNOW: ARE YOU WALKING INTO THE GROCERY STORE FOR “A FEW THINGS”… AND WALKING OUT $150 POORER?
Sound familiar? Well… we’re not doing that, starting today.
Let’s fix your grocery spending without turning your life into a sad salad, beans and rice, and instant ramen situation.
Before You Even Leave the House
Before you even leave the house… you need to have a strategy.
Most overspending doesn’t happen in the store. It starts before you even walk in. So go in with a secret weapon: a simplified meal plan. It doesn’t have to be gourmet or fancy. However, if you’re trying to save on groceries, you should meal plan.
Whether you shop weekly, bi-monthly or monthly, the goal is to think about what you want to eat, and plan accordingly.
Now you need to look in the fridge, freezer and pantry. What do you already have to work with? Are there items that are close to expiring? Use those as a starting point for creating your meals for this trip to the store.
Make a list, keep it simple and stick to the list. I know that sounds really basic. It is! But how many times have you been swayed by a good deal or sale item, then not use it in time, or forget you purchased it. And then it sits in the cupboard waiting to be used.
It happens…
Stop Shopping Like You’re on a Cooking Show
Sometimes we shop like we’re staring on a cooking show. That can get expensive! Especially if you’re making things that are out of your usual rotation or use special ingredients. And let’s be real, you probably don’t need 14 ingredients for most recipes.
So pick meals that:
- Use overlapping ingredients
- Are simple and repeatable
- Don’t leave you with random leftover items you’ll never touch again
Think: “What can I make twice in different ways?”
Buy Smart, Not Fancy
Read that again, Buy smart, not fancy.
This is about selecting items that are budget conscious. Sure, some things might be convenient, but that comes at a higher price. You’re paying someone else to do the prep work. However, this is where you can save and every single dollar matters.
For instance, that pre-cut chicken and pre-cut fruit? Convenient. Also… overpriced, sometimes even the shredded cheese costs more.
You’ll save more by:
- Purchasing a whole chicken
- Buying whole fruits and veggies
- Selecting blocks of cheese over pre-shredded
- Skipping pre-packaged “easy” items (like Uncrustables)
- Choosing store brands over name brand (they’re usually just as good)
Just remember, you’re paying a convenience fee, and that doesn’t always mean a quality product. And… when you’re trying to save money, changes need to be made.
Pick Your Store Wisely
Not all grocery stores are created equal.
- Some are great for produce
- Some are better for pantry staples
- Some are just… expensive for no reason
If you have the option, split your shopping between 2 stores max. Skip specialty stores and stores that you know have higher prices.
Some stores you can shop online, which is a great way to pre-price your shopping trip before you even get into your car or walk into the store.
Shop the weekly sales ads. That’s also a great way to create your meal plan for the week. Some stores even include recipes and meal ideas!
Watch out for the “Little Extras”
This is where budgets can quietly fall apart.
- Snacks you didn’t plan for
- “Just one” bakery item
- Drinks, treats, and impulse grabs
- BOGO sales that trick you into buying more
These small add-ons are a quick way to jump your grocery list from $40–$60 without you noticing until checking out.
Use This Simple Rule in the Store
If it’s not on your list… pause.
Ask yourself:
“Did I plan for this, or am I just reacting?”
“Am I falling for the sale or FOMO?”
You don’t have to say no to everything, just be aware before you reach the checkout line. And it’s perfectly fine to tally up what you’re placing in the basket or cart, as you shop. Then you won’t be surprised when it comes time to pay.
Debt Mom’s Real Talk
You don’t need to:
- Extreme coupon like it’s 1995
- Cut out everything you enjoy
- Spend hours chasing deals
- Eat bland and boring food
You just need:
✔ A simple plan
✔ A little awareness
✔ And better habits
That’s it, you’re just shopping more intentionally. Well done!
Leave a Reply