Shop less often each month by following these expert tips!
How often do you go shopping? Let me tell you my story. I used to do it twice or three times a week, especially when I also had the kids at home. Late-night cravings, last-minute meal planning, and forgetting items were some of the main factors that determined us to frequently go to the nearest store.
And we frequently forgot to make a shopping list, so it was even worse. Imagine how expensive it was, so we kind of waved goodbye to saving money. One day after talking to my husband, we agreed that it was time to change a few things. Of course, it was hard at first, but in due time we went from regularly buying groceries to only doing it once every two weeks.
This not only saved us money, but it also relieved the stress of running errands all the time and saved us valuable time. You can avoid the weekly hassle of keeping your pantry stocked and streamline your shopping routine with a little preparation and a few smart tips. Read on to see some tips that will help you shop less often each month and save more money for all the fun things in your life.
Before shopping, take a look in your drawers and pantry
The first rule of the game, if you want to shop less often each month, is to thoroughly check your pantry before going to the store. Take a pen and a piece of paper, and while you’re checking everything you usually stock up on (cans, spices, veggies, etc.), write down what you need to buy.
Remember to check the freezer as well, particularly if you frequently purchase frozen foods. To make sure you’re covering everything you and your family need, consider what you’ll cook every day of the week. Doing this you will not only save money but you will also reduce food waste.
After shopping keep track of every item’s expiration date
Since you’re going to shop less often each month, you might be extra cautious with all the items you buy. Follow the supermarket’s golden rule and arrange everything in the pantry/refrigerator according to the expiration date. If by any chance you forget about one or two items that are close to expiring, use them in a recipe.
Freeze everything you can
You’ve probably heard this a lot in a ton of other articles before, but mastering the art of stocking your freezer accordingly goes a long way, and it can help you save a lot of money. Stock up on foods that can be frozen, such as meat, bread, fruits, and vegetables. For later use in smoothies, stir-fries, or soups, chop and freeze fresh produce. This way, you always have everything you need on hand, and nothing goes bad.
Oh, and I almost forgot: if you don’t have any bags to store your food in the freezer, order a box of 120 reclosable ones for $7.46 from Amazon!
Think about batch cooking (or meal prepping)
Use as many of your fresh ingredients as possible when you get back from your grocery shopping trip and start cooking your meals for the following week. Make a variety of dishes, such as roasted vegetable bowls and lentil soup, as well as casseroles, which usually keep longer, and some special ones, like spaghetti or risotto, depending on your preferences.
For those days when you don’t have the energy or the time to cook but you also want to save money, purchase canned soups or other frozen foods that are simple to reheat or simply toss in a pan.
Store the produce to keep it fresh
Potatoes and sweet potatoes must be kept in a dark space with a lot of air, preferably in a pantry if you have the space. Garlic and onion go in a dry cupboard away from other vegetables, like potatoes, for example. Beets, carrots, cabbage, and other leafy vegetables should be stored in a cool spot near a window if you don’t have enough room in your refrigerator. Just be sure to remove the leafy tops first. After you make some space in your refrigerator, stuff them in.
Additionally, if you bought asparagus and chives, put them in a glass with about an inch of water and store them in the refrigerator in a plastic bag.
Buy in bulk
If you want to shop less often each month, save money, and be a savvy person, buying in bulk is the right answer. Bulk purchases of essentials like rice, pasta, beans, and canned goods can lower costs and eliminate the need for frequent restocking. To keep them fresh, store them appropriately in airtight containers.
Do you find these tips useful? Drop a comment and tell me which is your favorite.
Since you’re one step closer to becoming a frugal person, you might want to take a look at this article as well: 8 Best Items to Buy at Costco in January.
