I love a good deal. I’ll be the first to admit that there’s just something incredibly satisfying about saving money. When I check out, the first thing I look for on my receipt is how much I saved. It brings me joy. So when it comes to groceries, it’s no wonder why I’m always looking to save.
I’m amongst the percentage of the population that believe eating healthy shouldn’t be more expensive than eating junk. Fresh quality produce should be something we strive to provide everyone. It shouldn’t be the thing that breaks our grocery budget each month. Unfortunately, finding good deals on quality food can be hard. With coupons for everything in the middle aisles, how do we save money on the borders of the grocery store?
From big cities to small, I’ve spent time hunting deals. Going from farmers market to farmers market with the hope that I’ll finally find the one that save me money. Comparing grocery lists each time I buy from a different store. It can be overwhelming. Today, I hope I can save you that time and effort with a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way.
Farmers Markets – I’ll admit. This can be hit or miss. It’s easy to get swept up in the idea of a farmers market only to find yourself spending more than your budget. Do the research. I’m a regular at our farmers market now. I know where my produce guy gets his food and that he only sells what is good. And on occasion, I get a good deal. If you can find that stand or the right people, you can save simply by being a regular.
Join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) or Local Delivery – When I struggled with finding a decent farmers market in Atlanta, I started googling and came upon Fresh Harvest. Fresh, locally grown produce that I could get delivered to my door weekly or bi-weekly. I paid the same price every time. And I got to pick and swap my produce before it was delivered. It was perfect.
Another option is to join a CSA. Every one can be a little different but it’s a great way to eat seasonally and support local farmers. Pricing is usually around the same per box. Because it’s based on what’s in season and set with a standard cost, it’s easier to budget. I’d recommend googling to find your local CSA options.
Buy in Bulk – I tend to only do this for grains and nuts but buying in bulk is such a savings. If you can buy it loose and store in a new container at home, you’ll also tend to save. You can do this by shopping bulk bins at the grocery store or with a Sam’s/Costco membership.
Shop with a friend – If you have a Costco membership and your friend has a Sam’s Club one, why not trade off and shop together? Maybe you both need milk but neither one of you have room to store several gallons. Split it. Then you both reap the benefits of discounts and meeting your month grocery goal.
Shop online – I love online shopping. When it comes to trying new powders or finding random bits that I can’t track down in my small town, I happily search for deals. If you know you like a certain product, find a way to track it’s price. Then when it goes on sale stock up. There are tons of great sites like Vitacost or Thrive Market that offer discounts. Even Amazon offers good deals on food occasionally. And if you know you’re going to use it monthly, opt for a subscription. You’re more likely to get a discount as a repeat customer.
It can take time to figure out which system works best for you. And over time, you’ll learn where you can find the best deals. Just be patient and before you know it, you’ll be a grocery saving pro!
