Part 2 - The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money on Food
We resume our frugal foodie series with part 2 of our guide to saving money on groceries and more. In today’s post, we’ll cover buying in bulk, app delivery services, and the secret benefits to couponing!
If you didn’t get a chance to read part 1 of our series – check it out here!
Here's what you need to know.
Buying in Bulk
Buying in bulk can save you money, but it’s important to make sure that you’re saving money.
- Only Buy Items You Will Use
To avoid overspending, it’s important to plan ahead and make a list of the items that you need before you go to the store. Consider creating a meal plan for the week and only buying the items that you will need for those meals. This can help you avoid impulse purchases and reduce waste.
- Store Your Bulk Items Properly
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and freshness of bulk items. Make sure that you have enough space to store your bulk items and that they are stored in a cool, dry place. Additionally, consider investing in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to keep your items fresh for longer.
- Don't Be Afraid to Negotiate
Many stores are willing to negotiate bulk prices, especially if you are a regular customer. Before you make a purchase, do some research and compare prices at different stores. You can also ask if the store offers discounts for buying in bulk or if they have a loyalty program that you can join for additional savings. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or to negotiate the price with the store manager.
Here is an awesome guide from HowStuffWorks that offers tips for buying groceries in bulk.
“You can have more money two ways – make more, or spend less.”
– John Hope Bryant
Here's what you need to know.
Food Apps Aren't That Smart
Instacart and DoorDash are two popular food delivery services. They can be a convenient way to get food delivered to your door, but they can also be expensive. Here are a few things to consider when using Instacart and DoorDash:
- The Cost of Delivery
When placing an order through Instacart or DoorDash, it’s important to take into account the delivery fee. In addition to the delivery fee, some services may also charge a service fee or processing fee. Be sure to compare prices between different delivery services to find the most cost-effective option.
- The Tip
Tipping is a customary practice when using delivery services, but it’s important to factor it into the cost of your order. While most delivery services allow you to tip through their app, some services may not allow tipping, so be sure to check the service’s policy before placing your order.
- The Convenience
Delivery services like Instacart and DoorDash can be a convenient way to get food delivered to your door, but it’s important to consider the time it takes for the delivery to arrive. Depending on your location, delivery times can vary, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Additionally, be aware that some restaurants may not offer delivery through these services, so it’s important to check the restaurant’s delivery options before placing your order.
- The Food Quality
When using a delivery service, it’s important to consider the quality of the food. While many restaurants take care to ensure that their food travels well, some dishes may not be suited for delivery. Before placing an order, it’s a good idea to read reviews to see what other customers have said about the food quality. Additionally, if you’re ordering from a new restaurant, consider ordering a smaller portion to test the quality before placing a larger order.
Here's what you need to know.
Cutting Coupons Cuts Costs
Couponing can be a great way to save money on groceries. There are many different ways to coupon, such as clipping coupons from newspapers and magazines, printing coupons from online websites, and using mobile apps. Here are a few couponing tips:
- Only Use Coupons on Items You Actually Need
Coupons can be a great way to save money on groceries, but it’s important to use them wisely. Before using a coupon, ask yourself if you would buy the item even if you didn’t have a coupon. If the answer is no, then it’s probably not worth using the coupon.
- In-Store Sales
Don’t forget about store sales. Many stores offer sales on certain items throughout the week. Before heading to the store, be sure to check the weekly ad to see what items are on sale. This can help you plan your shopping list and save money on the items you need.
- A Powerful Combination
Combine coupons with sales. Combining coupons with sales is a great way to save even more money on your grocery bill. Before using a coupon, check the store’s policy to see if you can use it in combination with a sale. By doing so, you can maximize your savings and get the most bang for your buck. However, it’s important to remember that not all sales and coupons can be combined, so be sure to read the fine print before making your purchase.
- Be Patient
Couponing can take time, but it’s worth it in the long run. For more information about the benefits of couponing, read this article from the AARP that compares the pros and cons of extreme couponing.
Saving on Food and Building Towards Financial Independence
Saving money on groceries and more can help you improve your finances and achieve your goals faster. By planning, shopping smart, and cooking smart, you can reduce your grocery bill significantly and still enjoy delicious and nutritious meals. By eating out less often, ordering delivery less often, and buying coffee less often, you can also save money on other food-related expenses that can add up quickly. Additionally, cutting down on eating out is one solution to avoid or eliminate debt. By following these tips and tricks, you can create your ultimate guide to saving money on groceries and more.
Contact DebtBlue for options if you are struggling with credit card debt and need a roadmap to financial independence.