Has grocery shopping been a never-ending battle between feeding your family well and sticking to a budget? You are not alone, Mummy. With grocery prices climbing and supermarkets full of temptations, finding a way to save money on food is more important than ever. But how do we do that while maintaining our kids' healthy diet? Your dilemma is over! I filled this guide with practical tips to help you save money on groceries while still keeping delicious, nutritious meals on the table.
How to Save Money on Groceries
1. Take Advantage of Supermarket Discounts and Specials
Local supermarkets constantly have specials and discounts on various products. Keeping an eye on these deals can save you money in the long run.
A great way to save is to plan your weekly meals around items when they’re on sale. Check catalogues online and compare prices to get the best deals. Also, look out for loyalty programs and rewards points that can reduce your grocery bill. I have loyalty cards at two major supermarkets, and the savings are incredible!
2. Buy in Bulk for Long-Term Savings
Buying non-perishable items like toilet paper, staples like rice, pasta, and even spices in large quantities can help you save over time. Bulk shopping is particularly useful for large households or for stocking up on essentials when prices are low.
Shopping at warehouse stores or looking for bulk sections in Coles and Woolworths can help you get better deals. While the initial cost may be higher, buying items in large quantities means spending less per unit, which goes to waste far less often.
3. Choose Seasonal Produce
Fruits and vegetables can be pricey when out of season, so opt for seasonal produce to get the best value. Aldi and IGA often have fresh, budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank.
Buying items that are in season also means fresher, tastier meals. You can even freeze fresh produce like bananas and carrots for smoothies or soups. This helps you reduce food scraps while still enjoying nutritious meals.
4. Opt for Affordable Cuts of Meat
Meat is one of the biggest expenses in any weekly shop, but there are ways to keep costs down. Look for cuts of meat that are cheaper yet still full of flavour, like chicken thighs instead of breast or mince instead of steak.
Stocking up on pork or beef when they're on special and freezing portions can also save you money. Coles and Woolworths regularly have discounts on larger packs, which can be split into meal-sized portions and frozen for later.
5. Use Leftovers to Cut Down on Food Waste
Using leftovers creatively is a simple way to reduce waste and cut down on food waste. You can turn last night’s roast chicken into sandwiches, pasta, or soups to make the most of every meal.
Leftover vegetable scraps can be used to make stock, while extra rice can be turned into fried rice or added to casseroles. Food scraps are a major issue for many households, but being mindful of what you already have in the fridge and pantry can make a huge difference.
How to Save Money on Groceries (cont.)
6. Compare Unit Prices for Pantry Staples, Fruits, and Vegetables
Just because a product looks cheaper doesn’t mean it actually is. Checking the unit price (price per 100g or per litre) on price tags at your local supermarket can help you save by showing you which option gives you the best value. Looking at these prices makes it easier to compare brands and sizes.
This trick works especially well for pantry essentials, frozen produce, and packaged vegetable and fruit options.
7. Stick to a Shopping List and Shop Once a Week
Impulse buys can add up quickly, so making a shopping list and sticking to it is one of the best ways to save money on groceries. I found that online options can also prevent unnecessary purchases.
Shopping just once a week also helps with budgeting since you’re less likely to pick up extra snacks or treats on multiple trips. Planning your meals ahead of time ensures you only buy what you need.
8. Opt for Store Brands (such as Aldi or Woolworths) Over Name Brands
Store-brand products from Aldi, Woolworths, and Coles are often just as good as name brands but at a fraction of the cost. Swapping expensive brands for store-label versions of basic needs like milk, cereal, and canned goods can lead to significant savings.
The same manufacturers even make many store-brand items as their premium counterparts, so you’re often getting the same quality without the high price tag.
Woolworths or Coles: Which is better?
9. Use Your Freezer to Make Frozen Produce Last Longer
Freezing ingredients can help stretch your budget and reduce kitchen waste. Frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones and can be used in a variety of dishes.
If you find meat or other perishables on promo, buy extra and store them in the freezer for future meals. It’s a great way to always have ingredients on hand without having to rush to the grocery shop.
10. Avoid Takeaway and Cook at Home
While takeaway is convenient, it can drain your budget fast. Cooking at home is one of the easiest ways to save money on food while also eating healthier meals.
Preparing large meals that provide leftovers for lunch the next day means fewer mid-week food expenses. Plus, homemade meals can be just as quick and tasty as fast food when planned ahead.
Final Thoughts: How to Save Money on Groceries
Finding a way to save money on groceries as a single mum doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can significantly reduce your grocery expenses by using discounts, buying in bulk, choosing seasonal ingredients, and being mindful of food waste. Store brands offer plenty of budget-friendly options, and with a bit of planning, your weekly shop can be both affordable and nutritious.
Remember, small changes add up. Whether it’s swapping premium brands for store labels, freezing meat, or sticking to a shopping list, every little effort goes to waste if not put into action. With these tips, your household can enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the stress of overspending. Happy shopping!
If you're looking for even more ways to take control of your budget and stretch your dollars further, check out our Budgeting Hacks page for helpful tools and expert tips that will guide you to smarter financial choices every day.
