A girl’s gotta EAT! But I’m trying to do so for as cheap as possible! See how I manage to spend $50 at Aldi and make it last for 2 weeks…
Step One: Make A List and Check it Twice
It’s so important to make a list before you go to the store! Not only so you can get everything you need, but most importantly so you can stay on budget. Here’s what my bi-weekly grocery list looks like…
My $50 budget is based on the grocery store, Aldi. You can find deals on high quality, healthy and organic items at Aldi for cheap! But whatever your budget is and whatever grocery store you go to, making a list will help you stay on track, guaranteed!
Step Two: Get in and Get Out
You already know what you need, so get in and get out! Don’t make lingering around the store a habit. The longer you walk around the easier it will be to convince yourself you need something you don’t.
Step Three: Invest in Reusable Bags
If you live in Chicago then you know this is a must! Chicago charges 7 cents per bag! Yes, per bag. Depending on how many groceries you get, that can be an additional 50 cents you are spending on bags, if not more! So one day when you have a few extra dollars, get one or two reusable bags and leave them in your car. So when you’re going to the store it’s already there ready to use!
If you don’t drive, invest in a cart! They’re durable and come in a variety of sizes. I love my cart!
Step Four: Organizing Your Meals
This is my personal twist on meal prepping. You know how with meal prepping you actually cook the food? Well I’m not about that life, but separating the food does help! Here’s what I mean…
With this I am able to count my meals. I usually cook everyday, so with separating the main course (meat) and potential sides (veggies and a starch) I can pretty accurately guesstimate how long this food will last. Also, for whatever reason, it’s easier to just grab these little bags when taking the meat out!
Step Five: Save Those Receipts (Optional)
I don’t know about you, but I need to save any amount I can! Even if it’s one red cent! If you’re like me, you should download the Ibotta app! With this app you can find the store you recently went to, upload your receipt and get cash back! It’s usually around 50 cent a receipt, but if you go to the store twice a month that’s a dollar, and $24 at the end of the year! Who has an extra $24 to just throw away? I know I don’t! (Sounds like something you’re interested in? Click here and use my referral code (jyobmai). You can get up to a $20 Welcome bonus!
Also with receipts, if you aren’t pleased with an item you can always return it and get your money back. Nothing wrong with demanding quality products and if you feel like you’re not getting that you have the right to do something about it. I stay taking stuff back, with no regrets!
So next time you go to the store, try these simple tips! I can guarantee they’ll make a difference.