Grocery shopping is often the last thing you feel like doing after a long day at work. But, what if you could make this process quicker and less expensive? Here are nine tricks to help you get out of the supermarket faster and shop for groceries like a pro…
1. Always Have a List
A list is the easiest way to save time and money when it comes to grocery shopping. Stick to what’s on the list, unless you see something you forgot to add, or there’s a really great sale on toilet paper (which you will definitely need at some point). Otherwise, always be faithful to the list. To take said list to the next level, plan your meals for the week and then organise your list by food category, such as dairy, meat, veg, etc. This will instantly elevate you to ‘pro shopper’ status and other shoppers will stare in envy while you masterfully grab items as you pass them. Lastly, keep the list on your fridge so you can update it whenever something is running low.
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2. Identify Sales Before You Go
Specials can save you a ton of money, especially when it comes to essentials that can be bought in bulk. However, if you arrive at the store and are bombarded by sales, you could become overwhelmed and stray from your list (which we already established is a complete no-no.) To avoid this, try and find out which specials are running at your local supermarket so you can take advantage of the right ones (and stay away from things you don’t need.)
3. Do The Maths
Once you’re at the store, compare prices of fruit and veg. Some items are much cheaper if you buy them loose, plus it means less plastic in the environment.
4. Shop Alone
It might be more fun to take a shopping buddy along when you shop for groceries, but it will probably add more time and items to your shop. Shopping alone allows you to complete your goal in as short a time as possible, as you don’t have to take someone else’s opinions or decisions into account.
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5. Don’t Go When You’re Hungry
If you shop for groceries after work, be sure to keep a bag of nuts in the car for you to snack on before you get to the supermarket. Shopping while hungry is the fastest way for you to reach for the chips and chocolates in the check-out queue. It will also lead to more impulsive decisions that you would normally avoid on a full stomach.
6. Become A Regular
If you always shop at the same retailers, you’ll save a lot of time because you already know where everything is kept. You’ll be amazed how much quicker you get around when you know exactly what’s kept in Aisle 3.
7. Grab A Basket
If you’re not planning to buy a lot of items, opt for a basket rather than a trolley. When you have a bigger space to fill, you’re more likely to fill it up with things that aren’t on your list, and therefore spend more. But, if you can’t physically hold it or fit it in the basket, you’ll be less inclined to take it.
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8. Use The Same Brands
Don’t waste time comparing washing powder brands in the store. If you stick to buying the same products as much as possible, you’ll save time and you’ll have a better idea of the overall cost.
9. Buy Freezer Items Once A Month
Keep your major grocery shopping trips to a minimum and only buy the essentials during the week. This includes non-perishables like toilet paper, cleaning products, etc. This way, your weekly runs go faster and you can get home sooner after a long and tiring day.
Compiled by Food and Decor Editor, Claire Badenhorst
