Every trip to the store feels heavier on the wallet, even when the cart looks lighter than it used to. Eggs, bread, and milk add up fast, and suddenly the basics feel like luxuries. Shoppers are tired of watching their total climb higher while the bags get smaller, so they’re finding ways to push back. Some strategies are clever, some are extreme, but all come from the same place: trying to make every dollar stretch a little further.
Cutting coupons the old-school way
While most shoppers rely on apps and digital deals, some are still cutting out paper coupons from the Sunday paper. It takes time and patience, but stacking a handful of coupons at the checkout can still shave money off the bill. For those who enjoy the ritual, there is a sense of reward in saving the old-fashioned way.
Cooking a week’s meals in one go
Stretching groceries as far as they will go has become an art for some families. By cooking a week’s worth of meals with basic staples like beans, rice, and vegetables, they manage to avoid daily spending. It requires planning and a willingness to eat the same meals on repeat, but the savings are significant.
Growing herbs on the windowsill
Fresh herbs can be surprisingly expensive for how small the bundles are. More people are turning kitchen windowsills into miniature gardens, using pots of basil, parsley, and mint to cut down on grocery runs. Once established, a small collection of herb plants can last for months and bring fresh flavor to meals without the added cost.
Choosing frozen instead of fresh produce
To make grocery money stretch, some shoppers skip the produce aisle and head straight for the freezer section. Frozen vegetables and fruit are picked at peak ripeness and last far longer than fresh options. The trade-off is appearance, but the convenience of longer shelf life and lower prices keeps budgets in check.
Stocking up through bulk buys
Stocking up in large quantities has become a popular way to save money, especially for families. Warehouse stores sell staples like rice, pasta, and oats in sizes that last for months. The upfront cost can feel steep, but over time the price per serving drops and the need for constant shopping trips decreases.
Making pantry staples from scratch
Packaged foods may be convenient, but making staples at home often costs less. From baking bread to preparing sauces and snacks, many people are reclaiming skills that used to be routine. It requires extra time and effort, but the payoff is avoiding marked-up grocery prices on basics that can be made at home.
Scavenging food from store dumpsters
Some people take saving money to the extreme by searching supermarket dumpsters for food that is still safe to eat. Stores often throw away products that are close to expiration or slightly damaged, and those willing to look can find usable items. It is unconventional, but for some, it cuts the grocery bill down to nothing.
Splitting costs with a food co-op
Food co-ops allow groups of people to pool their money and buy directly from suppliers. The approach usually lowers costs, but it comes with the responsibility of organizing, dividing, and distributing the purchases. For those who value community and bulk savings, it can be worth the extra effort.
Gathering wild plants and berries
Heading outdoors to gather wild plants, berries, or mushrooms is another way people are cutting back on grocery spending. It brings free produce straight from nature, although it requires knowledge to do it safely. While it is not practical for everyone, foragers see it as a rewarding way to supplement their pantry.
Stretching foods past expiration dates
Expiration dates are being reinterpreted by some shoppers as guidelines rather than strict cutoffs. Many foods remain safe to eat past the printed date, which helps reduce waste and keeps costs down. As long as items are stored properly and still look and smell fine, they often remain part of the meal plan.
Trading goods with neighbors
Trading goods has made a comeback in communities where people are looking for creative ways to save. Someone with backyard chickens might swap eggs for vegetables, while another might trade baked bread for canned goods. It requires willing neighbors but can create a system where everyone spends less at the store.
Grocery shopping at dollar stores
Discount retailers are becoming go-to grocery stops for budget-conscious families. Dollar stores stock canned goods, frozen foods, and snacks at prices lower than traditional supermarkets. While selection may be limited, shopping there can trim weekly costs without sacrificing the basics.
Bargaining at farmers markets
Farmers markets are known for fresh produce, but some shoppers try to cut costs by bargaining with vendors. Success depends on the farmer and the day, but it is often possible to get a better price near closing time. Those who are comfortable asking for a deal can walk away with quality produce for less.
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Feeling the pinch at the grocery store thanks to inflation? Prices are skyrocketing, but that doesn’t mean you have to bust your budget. Here are our best grocery hacks to help you beat inflation and save big on your next shopping trip. Get started and keep more money in your pocket!
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The dollar store can be a goldmine for grocery shopping. It turns out, you can find some real treasures that will help you save big on your food budget. Digging through the aisles reveals some surprising foods that are not only cheap but also pretty darn good. While hardly anything is actually a dollar any more (thanks, inflation) — these food finds are still significantly cheaper than buying them elsewhere. Say goodbye to overpriced grocery trips and hello to extra cash in your wallet.
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
