Whether you’re new to the idea of couponing or you already use coupons, but want some other ideas for saving money, this post is for you.
I’m a wife and mom of four children (three teens and a ten year old who eats like one!) and like you, I have a limited amount of money. By using a variety of strategies I am able to feed our family of six for around $100/month. I’d like to share my best strategies with you.
Stock Up At The Lowest Price
My top strategy is to buy groceries at their lowest price and to buy as much as I can afford. I want to have enough to last until the next sale when I can buy at the lowest price again so that I am using my freezer and pantry rather than paying full price at the store.
Most stores follow an 8-12 week cycle for sale items. For example, the lowest price for boneless, skinless chicken breasts in my area is typically $1.99/lb. I can find this price every 4-6 weeks, so when chicken is on sale at this price I buy 4-6 weeks worth and stick it in my freezer. If the price hits $1.79/lb, which is the rock bottom price in my area, I may buy 2-3 months worth.
In order to use this strategy, you will need to know when prices are at their lowest. You can keep your own price record or use websites to help you determine the lowest price. A great website to check out is Coupon Mom which lists the percentage saved on the weekly grocery deals.
Combine Sales with Coupons
In the past, I planned my grocery shopping by making my menu and then looking for coupons for the items I needed to purchase. I have since learned that the best way to save money with coupons is to use them in conjunction with sales. I regularly purchase items for less than a dollar and often get items free.
You can find coupon matchups for sale items on websites like Southern Savers.
You can go here to read more about organizing and using coupons.
Make A Menu
Making a menu will in itself help you save money, but if you make a menu based on what you have in your pantry and the weekly sale items, you will be able to maximize your savings. I always check my pantry and freezer before making my menu to make the best use of what I have already purchased.
You can find additional help for menu planning on my website here.
Get Organized
In order to get the best savings, you will need to plan. Choose a shopping day and a planning day. On planning day check websites, make your grocery list and cut coupons. Planning the day or two before you shop will mean less frustration and less wasteful spending on the day you actually hit the stores.
By using these strategies, you will begin to see HUGE savings in your grocery bill.
You may also be interested in :
My Weekly Plan for Saving on Groceries
Why I shop at Multiple Stores.
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