February 6, 2008

Making a List and Checking it Twice

This week we continue our conversation about saving at the grocery store by discussing the shopping list. Do you bring a shopping list when you go to the grocery store? One of the things to remember is that a shopping list is only as good as you make it. So, here are a few things to think about as you are making your list.

What is on sale?

As you are making a shopping list, it is a good idea to look at the sales paper. Perhaps there are non-perishable items that you use all the time that are on sale. It is a good idea to buy extra of those items so you can take advantage of the best price. Also you might want to plan meals that use items that are on sale.

What foods are you going to need for the week?

Once you know what is on sale, it might be a good idea to think about what meals you are going to serve for the week. What ingredients do those meals call for? Do you already have some of those foods in the refrigerator and pantry? What foods do you need to use up before they spoil and what foods do you need to buy to complete the meal? Taking a regular inventory of what you have and what you need could help reduce waste and save a lot of money.

One of the things that I have been guilty of when planning my week is forgetting about special occasions. Is there a party this weekend, do I need to bring snacks to the daycare, or are friends coming over? Make sure you think of everything that you may need so you don't have to go back to the grocery store again.

Did you run out of anything?

Often times when you run out of something you forget about it when you are making a list. Those things that you use almost everyday, but you buy so infrequently like salt, pepper, and seasonings are things that are often overlooked. A good idea is to keep a running list on the cabinet or refrigerator where you can write down things as you run out of them. That way when you are about to go to the store, you already have those things written down. If you don't remember to write it down when you run out of it, make sure you check for these items when you are making your list.

Lastly, once you have a well checked and well planned list, when you get to the grocery store, make sure you stick to it. One of the biggest ways to spend more money than planned is by buying things that were not on your list. If you know that you have a compulsive streak, make a deal with yourself and say you can only buy 2 to 3 items that are not on your list. At least you will be limiting yourself and not feel deprived.

Hope to hear from you on how your shopping has been successful.

Posted by Jennifer McCaffrey at 10:56 AM |