Let’s face it…we all like to eat (and some of us more than others, which is why I share great deals on weight-loss products with you!)…

But the economy sucks right now, and if you aren’t down to ramen two or three nights a week, count your lucky stars…and follow-up with these money-saving grocery tips so you don’t have to be there! And if you are eating ramen a few times a week, click here for a $500 grocery card and here for a $250 grocery card (heck, even if you’re not, might as well get some free groceries )!

So check these out, and grab some discounted groceries!

1. Make a meal plan. Booo-ooorrrring, I know! Let’s face it…if you go to the grocery store unprepared, you won’t know exactly what you need to get for your meals, and you’ll end up spending too much. No bueno.
2. Watch for specials and coupons in store newsletters and online.
3. Make a list and stick to it. Remember #1? If you don’t stick to it, you overspend…and then it’s back to ramen.
4. Don’t shop when you’re hungry. Yeah, believe me I know this one…the last time I did that I ended up with a shopping cart full of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Cap’n Crunch, and Twinkies…
5. Shop alone. Ditto #4…shoppin with kids, spouse, or buddies drives the bill up…everytime!
6. Only buy things you know you’ll use. Let’s face it, if your kids don’t like broccoli, they ain’t gonna eat it. Find things they will eat (see #4 and don’t do what I did ;) )
7. Keep your eyes on the bottom shelf where prices are lower. I have a couple brands I’m partial to (again, see #4), and I’ll generally go with the brands on those things so I don’t feel like I’m cuttin’ myself short. For everything else, there’s MasterCard bottom-shelf store brands.
8. Buy store brands when the quality is the same. Ditto #7.

Keep track of your grocery bills and you’ll see how much you’re saving, and then it’ll be a lot more exciting!

Stay frugal my friends.

-D$