For many students, college marks the first time they’re making frequent trips to the grocery store to stock up on things for when the cafeteria (or preferred food stops) are closed. Some consider this a fun part of “adulting,” but it can go south quickly if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Here are some tips for students at the grocery store:
1. Eat before you go
This may be an easy one for this list, but it works. Going to the store on a full stomach eliminates impulse buys, which saves money (the priority here). In other words, going grocery shopping when you’re hungry means anything that looks or sounds good may end up in your basket.
2. Baskets > Carts
If you’re used to grocery shopping with a parent, you’re probably used to filling up a full-sized cart with food. Here’s a tip – your cart should match your budget. You’re not shopping with your parent’s cart-sized budget, so grab a basket or small cart. The more room in what you’re carrying or pushing means the more room you think you have for additional food items.
3. Make two lists
Yep, another tip for avoiding impulse buys. Make a list of what you need and what you want, then eliminate items that you can live without or get somewhere else for free (still treat yourself from time to time, though). If you’re at the store and you see the Cocoa Pebbles and they’re not on your list, they don’t go in your cart. Organize your list by location, going around the outside of the store first to get the essentials, then make your way to the middle. Also consider a list of things you already have and keep it on your phone so if you do see something that you think you need you have that information at your fingertips. There are dozens of grocery apps out there to help you track what you have and what you need.
4. Shop by yourself
When just you and your lists go shopping, you’re much more likely to focus on each other. While shopping with a friend may be make you feel more comfortable or safer, perhaps start at different ends of the store so you’re not tempted to have the other talk you into something that’s not on your list.
5. Stick to your budget
Buying more than you’ve budgeted for is a recipe for disaster in that it will lead to doing the same for other areas of your budget. Staying disciplined with your money is the smartest way to set yourself up for something big later. A little extra now eliminates anything big later.
6. Bottom shelf it
Grocery stores are designed for you to see the most enticing items early and often, so know where to look and stay focused on your lists. Name brands are placed where you can easily see them at eye-level, so crouch down to the bottom shelves and find the lesser-known brands that are more budget-friendly.
7. Buy now, package later
Buying in bulk doesn’t make a lot of sense if you’re shopping for one, plus it will likely push you beyond your budget. However, consider that anything sized for 1-serving is going to be the most expensive. When you buy meat or yogurt or something that can be portioned out later, you’re saving money and just adding a little bit of work at home. The same goes for fruits and vegetables: If it’s already sliced it’s going to cost more. Slice it at home and package for later.
8. Look at expiration dates
If you shop for one, you’re eating for one so that means a lot of packages or bottles will take awhile to get through. Be aware of anything that won’t last very long and either find something that will last longer or split it with someone.
9. Use the rewards programs
Many stores will offer discounts if you scan their card or key fob in order to get return business. Take advantage of it! You can save a lot of money by buying what’s in the program, or earn money toward gas or other things you’ve budgeted for.
10. Use Google to find general deals
There are countless lists of when to buy groceries, where to buy certain items, and when common items typically go on sale. If you are serious about saving money, there are plenty of ways to make your budget work.
