Let’s be real for a second: grocery prices are out of control. You walk into the supermarket for milk, and somehow you leave with a receipt that makes me question my life choices and no memory of what just happened. I’ve been there so many times—it’s like the supermarket hypnotises me into spending more than I planned! But over time, I’ve cracked the code to saving serious money on groceries while still feeding my family well—and today, I’m sharing exactly how you can do it too.
If grocery shopping is draining your budget, you need these 10 simple ways to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality.
1. Have a Budget (and Actually Stick to It)
I know, I know—budgeting sounds like the fun police, but it’s the #1 way to stop overspending. I used to shop with no plan, convincing myself that “we needed” everything I threw into the trolley. Spoiler: we didn’t. Then payday would roll around, and I’d wonder where all my money had gone.
Now, I set a weekly grocery limit and track my spending. I personally aim for a tight weekly budget for a family of four, but this will vary depending on where you live. The key is knowing your number and sticking to it like your life depends on it. I also like to challenge myself—some weeks, I try to spend even less just to see how creative I can get with meals. It’s like a game, except the prize is keeping more money in my pocket!
2. Meal Plan Like a Pro (Even If You Hate It)
I used to think meal planning was for super-organised people with labelled spice jars. Turns out, it’s a total money-saver. Planning my meals in advance means less food waste, fewer impulse buys, and no last-minute takeaways. Here’s how I make it easy (because I’m definitely not one of those people who meal plans down to the last teaspoon of salt):
- Check what you already have before making a shopping list—no more buying duplicates of things buried at the back of the cupboard.
- Plan meals based on deals & discounts. If chicken is on sale, we’re eating chicken that week!
- Use flexible recipes that let you swap ingredients—no hunting down something obscure that costs a fortune.
An easy way to cut costs is by planning ahead—here’s a step-by-step guide to meal planning when you’re overwhelmed.
3. Shop with a List (and Don’t Stray!)
I used to go grocery shopping thinking I had a mental list, but let’s be real—half the time I’d forget something important and end up making extra trips. Not only did that waste time, but I always spent more money with each visit. Having a solid list not only keeps me on track but also stops me from grabbing random things I don’t actually need.
A great hack? Organise your list by store sections—produce, dairy, pantry staples—so you’re not zigzagging through the aisles (because we all know once you loop back to an aisle, the temptation to grab ‘just one more thing’ is real). Also, try sticking to the outer aisles—this is where fresh, whole foods usually are, while the centre aisles are stocked with pricier processed items. If I have to venture into the middle, I go in and out like a grocery ninja!
A shopping list is your budget’s best friend. If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t go in the trolley. Simple. I used to convince myself that I’d “remember everything” (I never did). Now, I stick to my list and use online ordering for click-and-collect when I need to dodge temptation.
4. Buy in Bulk (But Only the Right Things)
Bulk buying is great if you do it wisely. I used to buy massive bags of fresh produce, only to watch it rot in my fridge before I could use it. Lesson learned! Now, I stick to non-perishables (rice, pasta, canned goods) and freezer-friendly foods, so nothing goes to waste.
A great bulk-buying strategy is to focus on staple items with a long shelf life—think oats, flour, lentils, and dried beans. They’re versatile, cheap, and can stretch meals for weeks. If you have the freezer space, bulk-buying meat when it’s on sale and portioning it out saves serious smackers in the long run.
Another tip? Split bulk purchases with friends or family. If a 10kg bag of rice is too much for your household, sharing it cuts costs without risking waste. Plus, check unit prices—bigger isn’t always cheaper!
Bulk buying is great if you do it wisely. I used to buy massive bags of fresh produce, only to watch it rot in my fridge before I could use it. Now, I stick to non-perishables (rice, pasta, canned goods) and freezer-friendly foods, so nothing goes to waste.
If you’re interested in bulk buying and storing food at home, check out the Acre Homestead channel on YouTube. I love her to pieces, and she inspires a lot of things I do in my own home! Becky if you ever read this blog, you’re flipping awesome!
5. Cook Once, Eat Twice (Or More!)
Batch cooking is my secret weapon. I make double portions of meals like pasta sauces, soups, and casseroles, and freeze extras for busy days. This has saved me from so many “ugh, I don’t feel like cooking, let’s get takeaway” moments.
A great trick is to prep multiple meals at once—if I’m making a lasagna, I’ll also prep a second one to freeze. It takes almost no extra effort, but future me is always grateful. Another tip? Portion out meals into single servings before freezing so they’re easy to grab and reheat.
Investing in good quality freezer bags and airtight containers helps keep meals fresh and prevents dreaded freezer burn. Label everything with the date so you know what needs to be used first. Plus, batch cooking doesn’t just save money—it also reduces food waste and makes weeknights so much easier!
6. Know Your Store’s Best Deals & Discount Days
Supermarkets have secret discount schedules—some markdown items in the evenings, others early in the morning. I always check when my local store does reductions and grab the best deals. One time, I found an entire shelf of 10p loaves of bread—I nearly filled my freezer! Another time I found salmon fillets at 90% off, it was such a treat because I love salmon!
If you want to slash your grocery bill, timing your shopping trips can make a huge difference. Some stores discount fresh produce and bakery items just before closing, while others mark down meat and dairy in the morning. Ask store employees when markdowns happen—they’ll often tell you the best times to shop.
Another trick? Use store apps and loyalty programs to track discounts and digital coupons. Some supermarkets even have exclusive deals for app users. Planning your trips around discounts helps maximise savings while still getting quality food!
If you’re serious about saving, check out these 21 frugal living tips that will help you keep more money in your pocket.
7. Ditch Brand Loyalty & Go for the Cheaper Option
I used to be a total brand snob—until I realised most own-brand products taste exactly the same as the fancy ones. Now, I swap to supermarket own-labels for things like flour, spices, and cleaning products, and I barely notice a difference (except in my bank balance).
A smart trick is to compare ingredient lists—many store-brand items are made in the same factories as big-name brands, just with different packaging! Also, buying generic for basics like rice, pasta, and dairy can cut costs without sacrificing quality. Some things, like ketchup or coffee, might still be worth the brand splurge, but for most essentials, switching saves serious cash.
Another way to test this? Try one generic swap per shopping trip—you’ll quickly figure out which ones work for your family without fully committing all at once!
8. Use Cashback & Reward Apps
If you’re not using cashback apps, you’re leaving free money on the table. These apps give you cashback, rewards, and discounts just for shopping like you normally would. Apps like Shopmium, TopCashback, and Fetch Rewards literally pay me back for buying things I was already planning to get. It’s like getting a tiny refund on every shop!
Many supermarkets also have their own rewards programs, offering exclusive member deals, vouchers, and loyalty points that can add up to big savings over time. Before shopping, I always check my cashback apps and store loyalty accounts to see if there are any special promotions.
Want to maximise savings? Stack cashback offers with in-store deals and digital coupons—this way, you’re saving money in multiple ways on a single purchase. It’s an effortless way to trim down your grocery bill without changing what you buy!
9. Cut Back on Meat (Without Feeling Deprived)
Meat is expensive. I used to think I had to plan every meal around it, but swapping one or two meals a week for vegetarian or bean-based dishes has saved me so much money. Plus, it turns out beans and lentils are actually delicious (who knew?).
A great way to start is by trying Meatless Monday—one day a week dedicated to plant-based meals. Swapping ground beef for lentils in spaghetti sauce or using chickpeas in curries keeps meals satisfying while cutting costs.
Another trick? Buy cheaper cuts of meat like chicken thighs instead of breasts, or bulk-buy meat on sale and freeze it in portions. Mixing smaller amounts of meat with beans or grains stretches it further without feeling like you’re missing out.
If you need inspiration, check out plant-based recipe blogs or YouTube channels for easy, affordable meal ideas that don’t skimp on flavour! My favourite channel for this is RainbowPlantLife on youtube.
10. Stop Buying What You Don’t Need
Supermarkets are sneaky—they want you to impulse buy. The way stores are designed, with flashy end-of-aisle promotions and strategically placed snacks near the checkout, is all meant to make you spend more. Before I check out, I always take a second and ask: Do I actually need this, or did the store convince me I did? Nine times out of ten, I put something back.
One trick that helps? Never shop hungry—when I do, suddenly everything looks like a must-have. Another great strategy is using the “48-hour rule” for non-essentials: if I see something I want but don’t need, I wait two days. If I still want it, I consider buying it, but most of the time, I forget about it entirely.
Also, keeping a running inventory of pantry staples prevents me from buying things I already have at home. It’s amazing how much you can save just by being mindful and intentional with what goes into your trolley!
What My Week Looks Like: 7 Days of Budget Meals
To show you how these grocery savings strategies work in real life, here’s an example of a one-week meal plan based on a family-friendly grocery list that sticks to a tight budget while still providing nutritious and satisfying meals.
Obviously here, I have only included the food we’ll eat – I’ve not included other stuff we buy like nappies, toiletries, yada yada yada. I also haven’t included milk because between my teas/coffees and the baby we get through an ungodly amount! Definitely not the norm. Anyways, here it is:
Shopping List for the Week
Proteins:
- Chicken thighs (1.5kg)
- Minced beef (500g)
- Eggs (12)
- Tinned tuna (2 cans)
- Cheese (400g)
- Yogurt (1kg)
Carbohydrates:
- Rice (2kg)
- Pasta (1.5kg)
- Wholemeal bread (2 loaves)
- Oats (1kg)
- Potatoes (2kg)
Vegetables:
- Carrots (1kg)
- Onions (1kg)
- Frozen peas (1kg)
- Bell peppers (3)
- Cabbage (1 head)
Fruits:
- Apples (6)
- Bananas (6)
- Oranges (6)
- Frozen mixed berries (500g)
Pantry Staples:
- Tinned tomatoes (4 cans)
- Lentils (500g)
- Chickpeas (2 cans)
- Cooking oil (1L)
- Peanut butter (500g)
- Crackers (1 pack)
- Nuts (200g)
Seasonings & Condiments:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Mixed herbs
- Soy sauce
With all that stuff in a general week, I can make meals like this:
Breakfasts:
- Overnight oats with fruit (oats, milk, bananas, frozen berries)
- Scrambled eggs on wholemeal toast (eggs, bread, butter)
- Peanut butter toast with bananas (peanut butter, bread, bananas)
- Yogurt with mixed berries and oats (yogurt, frozen berries, oats)
Lunches:
- Vegetable soup with bread (carrots, onions, lentils, tinned tomatoes, stock)
- Egg salad sandwiches (eggs, mayo, wholemeal bread, lettuce)
- Tuna and chickpea salad (tinned tuna, chickpeas, bell peppers, olive oil)
- Peanut butter crackers with fruit on the side (crackers, peanut butter, apples/oranges)
Dinners:
- Chicken and vegetable stir-fry with rice (chicken thighs, bell peppers, onions, rice, soy sauce)
- Spaghetti bolognese (minced beef, pasta, tinned tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs)
- Lentil curry with rice (lentils, tinned tomatoes, onions, garlic, spices, rice)
- Homemade vegetable and bean chilli (chickpeas, lentils, tinned tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, spices)
- Oven-baked chicken thighs with roasted potatoes and cabbage (chicken thighs, potatoes, cabbage)
- Simple omelette with cheese and veggies (eggs, cheese, bell peppers, onions)
- Pasta with tomato sauce and cheese (pasta, tinned tomatoes, cheese, garlic, herbs)
Snacks/Desserts:
- Homemade oat and banana cookies (oats, bananas, peanut butter)
- Cheese and crackers (cheese, crackers)
- Fruit and yogurt bowls (yogurt, mixed berries, nuts)
This simple meal plan makes use of affordable, versatile ingredients while ensuring a nutritious and balanced diet. By planning ahead and using bulk staples, a family can easily stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing taste or variety.
FAQ: Grocery Budgeting & Meal Planning
What is the best way to cut my grocery bill in half?
The best way to slash your grocery bill is to meal plan, shop with a list, buy in bulk where it makes sense, and avoid impulse purchases. Sticking to affordable staple foods like rice, lentils, and seasonal produce can also help cut costs dramatically.
How do I start meal planning if I’ve never done it before?
Start simple—plan just 3-4 dinners for the week and make extra for leftovers. Look at what you already have at home, choose meals based on sales, and make a shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.
What are the cheapest but healthiest foods to buy?
Budget-friendly, nutritious staples include oats, rice, beans, lentils, frozen vegetables, eggs, and wholemeal bread. These foods are filling, versatile, and provide great nutrition at a low cost.
How can I save money on groceries without using coupons?
Focus on store discounts, loyalty programs, and bulk deals. Stick to own-brand items where possible, compare unit prices, and use cashback apps for additional savings.
Is it really cheaper to cook from scratch?
Yes! Pre-packaged meals and takeaways add up quickly. Cooking from scratch, even with simple ingredients, is significantly cheaper and healthier in the long run.
What’s the best way to store bulk food properly?
Use airtight containers, freezer bags, and label everything with dates. Store dry goods in a cool, dry place and freeze bulk meat or bread to prevent waste.
How do cashback apps work, and which ones are best?
Cashback apps give you money back for purchases you already make. Some great options include TopCashback, Rakuten, and Honey, which work in multiple regions worldwide.
What are the best budget-friendly protein sources?
Eggs, lentils, beans, tinned fish, and cheaper cuts of meat like chicken thighs or beef mince are all great, cost-effective protein sources.
How can I make my groceries last longer?
Freeze leftovers, store produce properly (like keeping potatoes in a dark place), and plan meals around perishable items first to avoid waste.
What’s a realistic grocery budget for a family of four?
It depends on location, but a reasonable starting point is £50-£80 per week ($65-$100 USD) by prioritising budget-friendly staples, meal planning, and avoiding unnecessary extras.
What is the best way to cut my grocery bill in half?
The best way to slash your grocery bill is to meal plan, shop with a list, buy in bulk where it makes sense, and avoid impulse purchases. Sticking to affordable staple foods like rice, lentils, and seasonal produce can also help cut costs dramatically.
How do I start meal planning if I’ve never done it before?
Start simple—plan just 3-4 dinners for the week and make extra for leftovers. Look at what you already have at home, choose meals based on sales, and make a shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.
What are the cheapest but healthiest foods to buy?
Budget-friendly, nutritious staples include oats, rice, beans, lentils, frozen vegetables, eggs, and wholemeal bread. These foods are filling, versatile, and provide great nutrition at a low cost.
How can I save money on groceries without using coupons?
Focus on store discounts, loyalty programs, and bulk deals. Stick to own-brand items where possible, compare unit prices, and use cashback apps for additional savings.
Is it really cheaper to cook from scratch?
Yes! Pre-packaged meals and takeaways add up quickly. Cooking from scratch, even with simple ingredients, is significantly cheaper and healthier in the long run.
What’s the best way to store bulk food properly?
Use airtight containers, freezer bags, and label everything with dates. Store dry goods in a cool, dry place and freeze bulk meat or bread to prevent waste.
How do cashback apps work, and which ones are best?
Cashback apps give you money back for purchases you already make. Some great options include TopCashback, Rakuten, and Honey, which work in multiple regions worldwide.
What are the best budget-friendly protein sources?
Eggs, lentils, beans, tinned fish, and cheaper cuts of meat like chicken thighs or beef mince are all great, cost-effective protein sources.
How can I make my groceries last longer?
Freeze leftovers, store produce properly (like keeping potatoes in a dark place), and plan meals around perishable items first to avoid waste.
What’s a realistic grocery budget for a family of four?
It depends on location, but a reasonable starting point is £50-£80 per week ($65-$100 USD) by prioritising budget-friendly staples, meal planning, and avoiding unnecessary extras.
The Bottom Line: Small Changes, Big Savings
You don’t have to eat beans on toast every night to save money (though if you like beans on toast, power to you). A few small shifts in how you shop and plan your meals can add up to serious smackers in savings every single month.
Try these tips out, and let me know—how do you save on groceries? Drop a comment below and share your best money-saving hacks!
Until next time, Jordan 💛
