If Trump Can't Save Grocery Prices, Here Are 10 Smart Ways To Cut Costs
Yes, President Trump’s tariffs seem to be increasing some prices at the grocery store. With the tariffs the United States is imposing on imports, not only are food costs still rising, but so are the costs of many other goods thanks to supply chain issues and higher rates at the borders of Canada and Mexico.
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Unfortunately, it may not be possible for prices to go down to what they were in Trump’s first term. In fact, it may be up to you, the consumer, to lower the amount you spend on groceries. Curious how to do it? Ramsey Solutions recently provided several suggestions to make your groceries cheaper — and these ten are the best of the bunch.
1. Change Your Idea of Dinner
Often, people view dinner as a large, complicated meal. Rachel Cruze of Ramsey Solutions suggested redefining dinner as a far simpler meal. Think soup, grilled cheese or even breakfast for dinner in the form of scrambled eggs and fruit.
When you stop spending on gigantic final meals for the day, you can save some money and maybe even start a healthier diet. In this case, it’s about not focusing on quantity but rather the high quality of your next meal.
2. Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can save you money on groceries, as items in bulk are usually greatly discounted. Remember, when it comes to personal finance, make sure to buy smart and stick to non-perishables for your bulk buys. This trip to the store might be a more expensive credit card swipe in the store, but it will definitely save you money in the long run.
3. Know When To Shop
Find out when your local store deploys their daily or weekly deals, rather than shopping when it’s most convenient, timewise, for you. Whether you prefer Trader Joe’s, Costco, Walmart or just your smaller neighborhood mom-and-pop grocer, there will often be times or days when you can find better discounts.
4. Experiment with Different Grocery Stores
You can also experiment with getting out of your routine and try other grocery stores to see where you can save the most. You might discover that your favorite local grocer overprices their produce or doesn’t have sales as good as their competitors. Feel free to become a savvy shopper and see how other stores are pricing.
5. Never Shop Hungry
When you’re hungry, everything looks good — even the expensive stuff. Never shop on an empty stomach, as it will just lead to an empty wallet.
6. Curbside Pickup
Want to discontinue impulse shopping? Order curbside pickup to keep yourself from wandering the aisle and getting tempted. One of the best ways to stick to your budget is to stick to your grocery list, which has only the items on it that you need for your meal planning.
7. Shop Farmers’ Markets at the End of the Day
Farmers’ markets are not usually cheaper than grocery stores — except at the end of the day. Typically, vendors don’t want to bring their food items home at the end of the day and will cut prices just before closing. You’re likely to score some deep savings just before they wrap up.
8. Buy Generic Brands
Consumer Reports has noted that most store brands are equal to name brands in both quality and taste and are still 20% to 25% cheaper.
9. Never Buy More Than You Need
Just because you discover a deal, that doesn’t mean you should spend on it — if something isn’t on your grocery list, even if it’s a good deal, don’t bother.
10. Try Gardening
Spending too much on produce? Have a nice backyard? Consider developing your green thumb and making your own garden.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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