Inflation’s been hitting us all where it hurts—right in the grocery cart. These days, it feels like you need a financial advisor just to buy eggs. But some people are taking things to extremes to save a few bucks, from haggling over kale at the farmers market to literally dumpster diving for dinner. It’s wild out there, and honestly, you’ve gotta respect the creativity. So, which of these crazy grocery-saving hacks would you actually try?
Clipping Paper Coupons
Believe it or not, people are still cutting out paper coupons from newspapers like it’s 1995. Sure, you can save a few cents here and there, but the time spent hunting for them might have you questioning if it’s worth it. Still, that satisfaction of handing over a stack of coupons at checkout? Priceless.
Extreme Meal Prepping
Some people are making an entire week’s worth of meals from a single bag of groceries. Think rice, beans, and a lot of creativity. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re okay with eating the same thing for five days straight, it’s one way to keep the grocery bill low and predictable.
Growing Their Own Herbs
Instead of paying $4 for a tiny bundle of sad herbs, people are turning their windowsills into mini gardens. Sure, it sounds quaint, but maintaining those plants can become a full-time job. Still, when you can snip fresh basil instead of buying it, your wallet will thank you. Here are 11 easy herbs you can grow at home.
Skipping Fresh Produce
Some shoppers are skipping the produce aisle altogether and going straight for the frozen section. Why? Frozen veggies are cheaper and last longer, even if they don’t look as pretty on the plate. It’s a trade-off, but hey, at least they won’t rot in the fridge after three days.
Buying in Bulk
The “buy it in bulk” crowd swears by this method, but how much oatmeal does one household really need? Sure, you save in the long run, but that initial $50 spent on rice might feel a bit excessive. At least you won’t need to shop again for months—or maybe years.
Making Everything From Scratch
Some people have ditched convenience foods entirely and are baking their own bread, making their own sauces, and even growing their own yeast (yes, it’s a thing). It’s ambitious, but also time-consuming. If you’ve got a lot of free time and patience, it’s a money-saver. Otherwise, it’s just a lot of extra work.
Dumpster Diving
Yup, some folks are really out here rummaging through supermarket dumpsters for perfectly good food that’s been tossed out. It’s legal in some places and definitely free, but it’s not exactly glamorous. Still, for the brave and resourceful, it’s an extreme way to stretch that grocery budget to zero.
Joining a Food Co-op
Food co-ops are where people pool their money to buy groceries in bulk directly from suppliers. It’s cheaper, sure, but now you’re spending your weekends distributing crates of food and hoping the math works out in your favor. It’s a community effort, but definitely not the most convenient option.
Foraging for Wild Foods
Some are taking things to the next level by foraging for wild plants, berries, and mushrooms. It sounds adventurous, but it’s also risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Save a few bucks, but make sure you’re not accidentally picking something poisonous!
Eating Expired Foods
The “expiration date is a suggestion” crowd is out here eating foods well past their prime. As long as it doesn’t smell bad, it’s good to go, right? It’s risky business for certain items, but if you’ve got a strong stomach, it’s one way to avoid unnecessary food waste—and save cash while you’re at it.
Bartering with Neighbors
Why buy when you can trade? Some have revived the old-school barter system, swapping eggs for veggies or baked goods for canned goods. It’s a creative way to shop local without spending a dime, but finding a neighbor who’s down to trade isn’t always easy.
Shopping at Dollar Stores
People are skipping traditional grocery stores and hitting up dollar stores for canned goods, frozen foods, and even snacks. It’s not exactly gourmet, but when you’re trying to feed a family on a budget, a dollar here and there can really add up.
Haggling at Farmers Markets
Yes, people are haggling over their produce prices at farmers markets like it’s a flea market. Some vendors don’t mind, but others might give you a side-eye. Either way, if you’re brave enough to ask for a discount on that organic kale, you might save a few bucks.
10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big
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!
Read it Here: 10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big
15 Surprising Dollar Store Foods That Will Slash Your Grocery Budget
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.
Read it Here: 15 Surprising Dollar Store Foods That Will Slash Your Grocery Budget
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
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.
