Another way to save money when supermarket shopping!

Soft_Kitty_2

I know this looks like my first ever post on here but it isn't - I've actually been on here since 2006 but have re-registered as my user name was too recognisable to people who know me even vaguely, so I wanted to change it.

Anyway, grocery shopping is so expensive these days but today I went shopping to the big M supermarket and couldn't believe that the small trolley of food I had came to £38 - there's only me, my 4 year old son and one cat in the house! Luckily I had a £5 petrol voucher so paid £33 but ideally I'd like to get my weekly bill down to an average of £25-30.

When I got home I went through my receipt and put an asterisk next to all the non-essential items (crisps, biscuits, things I bought on a whim but didn't really need like garlic bread). I added them up and they came to £8.30, so if I hadn't bought them my bill would have been £29.71! Lesson learnt.

So from now on, what I'm going to do is go round the supermarket then before I pay, go through the trolley and put back anything I don't really need. It's going to be tough (because I love biscuits, crisps and garlic bread!) but if I can save between £5-8 per week, I'll be really pleased.

Hope that helps someone save some money.

wild666

In my opinion the one thing supermarkets hate are people who go in with a list and stick to it rigorously maybe deviating only for a cheaper item of the same product after all what matters to you is the total amount you spend and that is as little as possible, but at the same time it is no use buying stuff you will not use or don't like.

Soft_Kitty_2

Very true Wild. I think I might also start taking a calculator with me. Might be a bit embarrassing but I need to save money when shopping so that could be the way forward. Just have to remember to minus any items I put back!

nich29580

Soft_Kitty wrote: »

Very true Wild. I think I might also start taking a calculator with me. Might be a bit embarrassing but I need to save money when shopping so that could be the way forward. Just have to remember to minus any items I put back!

I do this but use the calculator on my mobile, in hopes people just think im texting. I feel it helps me keep a check on what im spending. Hope this helps

*max*

Errm....why don't you just NOT pick them up in the first place?? I don't really understand the logic?

Soft_Kitty_2

Because Max, I get tempted by them as I'm going round. I'm only human, after all!

Thanks Nich I'll do that. I remember when they used to have calculators on the handle of the trolley. It's pretty obvious why they aren't on there anymore!

Barneysmom

Hi Soft Kitty, another thing I do is the 5 item challenge. I do my shopping then have to look in my trolley and take 5 items out that I don't really need. Usually end up taking all the snacks and chocolate out.

Don't feel embarassed about using a calculator when you walk round, loads of people use one.

myalphabetgirls

I regularly take a calculator down the aisles. I am not aware that other shoppers notice or care. If you're easily tempted (as I am) and this helps then do it.

Also, you wouldn't have to give up your biccy & choccy luxuries completely. Both Sainsburys and Morrisons value packaged biscuits (Sainsburys Shortbread in particular and Morrisons value chocolate) are just as nice as the expensive brands.

Also have you checked out the printable coupons thread on here. There are often great offer/coupon combinable options mentioned on there which make some food free. For instance, at the moment on the website called beforeishop.co.uk there is a minimum of a £1 coupon against Innocent Veg Pots, (there are also 70 free pot vouchers to be won each day but they seem to go by lunch time). This item is currently bogof in Sainsburys and if you do win a free pot voucher (Ive won one) you effectively get both pots free. Also by connection to facebook there are currently free bags of giant milky bar buttons and Anchor squirty cream vouchers to be had. All you need is a printer!

I do know what you mean about awareness of unnecessary items but life is too short to not have a biscuit now and again. Try those sainsburys value shortbread, they are great and go and dig out your calculator and (insert raspberry noise!) to any fellow shopper who doesn't approve!

Liam002

Soft_Kitty wrote: »

It's going to be tough (because I love biscuits, crisps and garlic bread!) but if I can save between £5-8 per week, I'll be really pleased.

How about you make what you like yourself? I am sure you always have the basic ingredients: flour, eggs, milk, bread, garlic, butter, etc. You will probably be able to save money while not sacrificing what you love!

Soft_Kitty_2

Thank you myalphabetgirls, I'll try the value chocolate and biscuits and check out that website - my printer is at my parents house somewhere as I stored it there while I moved, so will have to get it back (or print them at work! ).

I'll try that Barneysmom - I like a challenge!

julie1075

Hello! Here's what I do. I go to the websites online shopping page and add everything I need into my basket. I usually have to stick to a budget so this way I can see exactly what it will cost and what is on offer. I also use the downshift challenge - down from a big brand to supermarket brand on a few items so I can still afford a little treat too. Then write down your list and stick to it when instore shopping, or even better get it home delivered and you wont be tempted! Works for me!