It’s no secret that is has become more expensive to shop at the grocery store. That’s part rise in costs, but it’s also part science as retailers do things to cause you to spend more. Here are 12 money traps to avoid when shopping to keep more cash in your pocket.
Gum
Strategically placed near the checkout counter, gum and candy bars are highly overpriced.
You’ll part with $5 or more for gum that you may not need.
Instead, look for bulk packs in the candy aisle or, at a big box member discount store like Costco or Sam’s Club.
Pre-Cut Produce
Pre-cut fruits or vegetables can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time. Unfortunately, you must pay significantly extra to have someone do the work for you.
Furthermore, you’ll get much less than simply buying the item whole.
Kitchenware
Grocery stores like to offer convenience. It’s helpful when you’re in a pinch to buy that kitchen utensil with your groceries. In most cases you can find the item for cheaper at Walmart, Target, or Amazon, not to mention a better selection.
Toilet Paper
Everyone needs toilet paper. However, you’ll face sticker shock when buying it at the grocery store. Opt for a warehouse club, like Costco or Sam’s Club, or use Amazon Subscribe & Save.
You’ll save more and won’t get chafed in the process.
Certain Organic Produce
Organic produce is important to eat to avoid dangerous pesticides. You don’t always need to purchase organic though.
If the produce has a peel, you may be safe to opt for the non-organic version. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a clean list of items that are safe to eat non-organic. Consult it and save yourself some cash.
Diapers
Diapers are another convenience grocery stores offer. Like kitchen utensils, they’re more expensive.
If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get up to 20 percent off a diaper subscription through Subscribe & Save. You can also watch for deals at your local drugstore or Walmart to increase savings.
Greeting Cards
Greeting cards can be expensive. It’s easy to spend $6, $7, or more on a greeting card at the grocery store. Opt for the dollar store instead. The selection may not be as vast, but they have quality options for significantly less.
Cosmetics
Cosmetics are another convenience item sold by grocery stores. You’re likely getting fleeced for that convenience. Opt for Walmart, Target, or a local drugstore to get a better selection for less.
Pet Food
Fido deserves quality dog food, but you don’t need to overpay for it. Rather than purchasing pet food at the grocery store, Target, Walmart, and Chewy are all better choices. You may even want to look at Amazon to find good deals.
Pre-Made Salads
Salad is a terrific addition to a meal, or can stand on its own. Don’t overpay for a bagged or prepared salad as it can cost you some serious green.
You don’t know the age of the ingredients either. Buy the ingredients on your own and save a few bucks.
Larger Shopping Carts
Have you noticed that the shopping cart at your favorite store is getting larger over time? It’s not just you as studies show they’re getting bigger.
This is done for one thing – to get you to feel like you haven’t bought enough and to fill it with more items. If you feel like there’s only a few items you need, select a handheld basket to limit any impulse purchases.
Over-the-Counter Medicine
Like many other items, grocery stores just don’t have the variety to offer. Over-the-counter medication is another example, and you’ll pay for that lack of variety.
Target or your local drugstore are much better choices. Don’t overlook Amazon either to get a good deal.
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