Tips to Make Using a Shopping List Easier
Save Money on Groceries by Reducing Unplanned Purchases
Dec 5, 2008
Grocery shopping seems like an endless chore but there are ways to make it less painful. Follow these tips to save money on groceries and make shopping with a grocery shopping list easier.
Keep Grocery Shopping Lists on Hand
The best way to save money on groceries is to use a grocery shopping list at the store. In order to prevent extra runs to the grocery store for items that have run out, keep a shopping list on the refrigerator. As items run out, add them to the shopping list. When planning a trip to the grocery store, add the shopping-list items to the larger, grocery shopping list that includes items needed for the weekly meal plan. Be sure to add paper products and personal care items to the grocery shopping list.
Divide the Shopping List to Conquer
To save time in the grocery store and prevent extra purchases, take one trip to the grocery store to write down the aisles in order. Pay special attention to aisles that have the most frequently used items, like the aisle for pasta, soups and canned goods. Place this list in a clear pocket folder and use it when writing up the grocery shopping list. It is fast and easy to speed through the grocery store when everything is in order. The extra 5 minutes it takes to order the grocery shopping list can cut as much as 30 minutes off a shopping trip. It also reduces unplanned purchases: If nothing is needed on the baking aisle, there is no need to go down that aisle and face temptation.
How to Grocery Shop with Children
It isn’t easy for children who have been allowed to choose items at the grocery store to hear that they may not have what they want anymore. When it is necessary to shop with children, start by telling them that the family is now going to be using a grocery shopping list and only the things on the list will be purchased. Ask the child if there is something he would like before going shopping. If it is reasonable, actually write it on the list, or write “treat for child.”
At the store, reinforce that the child has chosen a treat when he asks for something different. Ask the child if he would like the new thing or the first treat but that there is only one on the list. Be affirming and positive, letting the child know that he may choose an item. Focus more on the fact that the child gets one treat and the choice, if reasonable, is his.
Be patient by allowing the child time to choose, but firm that there is only one choice. Give the child additional input by letting him choose other things on the list. For example, if snacks are on the list, allow the child to pick between chips and pretzels. Be sure to model good behavior by only purchasing items on the list, even if that means writing “treat for mom” on the list too.
Keeping a running list of items that need to go on the grocery shopping list can eliminate relying on memory at the grocery store. Writing down the order of the aisles at the grocery store and getting children familiar with using a grocery shopping list will help reduce grocery costs and save time when grocery shopping. For more tips to save money at the grocery store, read How to Save Money on Milk and Vegetables.
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