So, I've been really trying to tighten up my budget, and groceries seem to be one of those areas where I always end up spending more than I planned. 🍎

I've started doing a few things like meal planning for the week and trying out some store brands instead of the usual name brands. It's helped a bit, but I'm wondering if anyone has any other tips or tricks for keeping those grocery bills in check?

I did try out this app that compares prices between stores, but honestly, sometimes it feels more hassle than it's worth. 🛒

Would love to hear what works for you all!

Meal planning is a great start! One thing I've found helpful is sticking to a shopping list and avoiding impulse buys. It’s amazing how those little extras add up. Also, consider buying in bulk for non-perishables if you have the space; it can save a lot in the long run. 🥫

Another tip is to shop later in the day when stores often discount items close to their sell-by date. You can score some great deals on fresh produce and meats that way. And if you’re into tech, maybe try a simpler app that just tracks prices at your favorite store rather than comparing across many. Sometimes less is more! 😊

On 10/14/2025 at 11:00 AM, PennySaver88 said:

So, I've been really trying to tighten up my budget, and groceries seem to be one of those areas where I always end up spending more than I planned. 🍎

I've started doing a few things like meal planning for the week and trying out some store brands instead of the usual name brands. It's helped a bit, but I'm wondering if anyone has any other tips or tricks for keeping those grocery bills in check?

I did try out this app that compares prices between stores, but honestly, sometimes it feels more hassle than it's worth. 🛒

Would love to hear what works for you all!

Totally get how tricky groceries can be to keep under control! Since you’re already meal planning and trying store brands, one thing that helped me was focusing on seasonal produce—it’s usually cheaper and fresher. Also, sometimes swapping out a few ingredients for cheaper alternatives in recipes can make a difference without feeling like you’re missing out.

Another small thing I do is keep a running list on my phone of pantry staples I’m running low on, so I don’t accidentally buy duplicates or forget essentials and have to make extra trips. Those extra trips always seem to add up! It sounds like you’re on the right track, and with a few tweaks, it can get easier over time.