The Best Money-Saving Route In A Grocery Store
Everyone seems to have experienced that moment when you get home from the grocery store only to find you bought so many things that weren't on your list as you unpack. However, this isn't exactly your fault. According to Insider, grocery stores are designed to make you spend more money. With a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as you shop, you can circumvent many of the impulse buys and save money at the grocery store without having to clip coupons.
One way to stay away from frivolous spending on non-essential items is to make a grocery list and to stick closely to it, according to Clark. Another helpful tip for saving money while at the grocery store is to make sure you never shop on an empty stomach. If you shop when you're hungry, you are more likely to buy more food than you need. Eat This, Not That! also suggests you shop for store brands to score a lower price on many items. But, if you consult Insider, one of the best ways to save money while shopping is to walk a very specific path through the supermarket.
Shop the perimeter of the store to save the most money
The best way to save money while you are at the grocery store is to shop around the edge of the store's walls. Not only is it better for your wallet, but it is better for your body, too. When you shop along the outside of the store, you'll find fresh foods first such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. When these fill up your cart first, you are less likely to pick up unnecessary items from the center aisles of the store that usually contain more processed foods. What you should be left with is just enough room to add any other necessary items you do need from the middle of the store, like pantry staples.
Another good tactic Insider suggests is to shop the aisles with sweets or other treats last. Chances are you are less likely to grab more than you need. Once you have everything on your list, don't wander around any additional aisles. This will also help curb impulse buys and keep more money in your pocket.