Spending money on groceries can be a drag, but in the midst of all that late-night studying, you still need to feed yourself! There are plenty of ways to save money on this part of your budget. It will just require some planning and patience.
In general, to save the most money on groceries, you’ll need to make a few trips because you’ll have to go to different stores. Each store sells the same items at different prices, and some things will be cheaper to buy at one place than at the other. Butler Plaza is really convenient for shopping trips like this because Publix, Target, and Trader Joe’s are all located in the same area! I know Walmart used to say “always low prices,” but I encourage you to try going elsewhere.
Here’s a breakdown on how to save big at stores such as Publix, Target, and Trader Joe’s:
Publix
BOGO: Buy one, get one free. This is one of my favorite things about Publix. Always make sure to pass by this section of the store, and pick up whichever items you like for the price of one. Just make sure none of the items are expiring before you can finish them because then you’re not really saving any money at all.
Weekly Ads: Publix’s weekly ad shows every single item on sale for that week. You can pick one up on your way inside.
Target
Debit card: Anyone can sign up for Target’s debit card, which saves you five percent every time you shop there. Five percent may not seem like much, but the savings will add up as time goes by. But beware! This card is linked to your normal debit card, so when you use it, the money isn’t immediately deducted from your actual bank account. This shouldn’t be an issue if you’re actually tracking your budget.
Canvas bags: Buying and using Target’s canvas bags save you 5 cents on every transaction. A nickel might not be much, but it’s better than nothing!
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s doesn’t have any coupons or savings. It don’t really carry brands the way Publix or Walmart does, and its groceries, for the most part, are set at a very low price. Trader Joe’s is where the bulk of my groceries come from. Its products are just as delicious as what is sold at other stores, and most of the time they’re healthier, too! You save simply by shopping there.
I didn’t include this in the breakdown, but don’t forget to visit Publix and Target’s website for hundreds of coupons. They are essential in saving money at both of these stores. Both stores have coupons you can print out, and Publix also has digital coupons to make saving even more convenient.
Take the time to plan before buying groceries. The amount of money you can save will surprise you!