19 Ways You’re Wasting Money At The Grocery Store

Are you still spending too much money at the grocery store even with coupons and reading tips on how to save money while shopping?

Maybe that’s because some of your own shopping habits are making you buy more and spend more.

Take a look at our list of bad grocery shopping habits, and get rid of them once and for all!

1. Not checking what’s left in your pantry and fridge. Before you head to the grocery store, do a quick inventory of what’s left in your kitchen. Maybe that half-gallon of milk will last you through the week and you don’t need to buy another gallon after all. Not checking what’s left in your kitchen can make you buy more things than you actually need.

2. Not making a grocery list. Having a grocery list can help you shop faster and, of course, get everything you need. Forgetting to buy something is not only annoying and wastes time, but it also wastes money. When is the last time you went to the store to pick up that one thing you forgot to buy and ended up with a few extra things in your basket?

3. Avoiding crowds and shopping earlier in the week. Shopping on weekends or during busy hours can be really hectic — we get it. But not only do you buy more when you’re leisurely strolling through the aisles, but also retailers put out more coupons and deals during the latter half of the week when they know there will be more customers.

4. Bringing your kids to the store. While grocery shopping might seem like a fun family activity, it’s not helping you save any money. Kids will inevitably beg you for that candy bar or sugary cereal, and you’ll eventually give in.

5. Going to the store hungry. We've all made this mistake. Going to the grocery store hungry is a surefire way to buy things you don’t really need. Try not to shop with your nose, and avoid the freshly baked section if possible.

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