9 Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store

No. 1: Stick to Groceries
Many supermarkets are expanding their product offerings beyond food products, but they tend to carry a heftier price tag than a drug or wholesale store.
No. 2: Don’t Get Sucked in By Displays
Manufacturers often pay to have their items on display, which means they aren’t necessarily on sale, according to Nelson.
You will have to pay attention, there can be a lot of signs on a display, but they might not actually say ‘sale.
No. 3: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
It’s important to pay attention to the unit costs, not the list prices. Convert the unit cost by dividing the price by the number of units -- and then compare to find out which product is cheaper.
Also be mindful of what you are buying in bulk. Sometimes when you buy produce in bulk you end up throwing half of it away because it couldn’t be used in time.
No. 4: Stock Up on Sales
Track the prices of the top ten items you most often buy, so you know when it hits its lowest price and you stock up.
No. 5: Three’s a Crowd
Stores will often pair sale items with non-sale items to entice you to buy more.
No. 6: Skip Special Sections
If you need bagels, go to the actual bread aisle, don’t just grab them off the table in the bakery aisle.
No. 7: Scan Above Eye Level
Many of the sales aren’t on eye-level, the experts said. Look at the top and bottom of the shelves to make sure you are snagging the best deal.
No. 8: Early Bird Gets the Discount
Be sure to ask the manager when the mark-downs are done in the produce and meat prices.
No. 9: Shop Alone and on a Full Stomach
While they can be helpful at times, kids and spouses can often lead to impulse buys, so leave them at home, Jones suggested. It’s also a good idea to eat before heading to the store.