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Eating healthy doesn't have to be expensive. If you are constantly grocery shopping, you know how quickly expenses can add up and start to take a toll on your monthly budget. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to save money while grocery shopping without sacrificing quality or nutrition. Here are ten tips to help you get started, including having your own collapsible shopping bag.

1. Planning Ahead

It's hard to save money when you're out and about every day. But by planning ahead, such as making a grocery list, you can save both time and money. You'll also be less likely to buy snacks, unhealthy drinks, and impulse items that add up over time.

We recommend that you keep your own retail shopping bags that you can reuse and make a full list of each item that you intend on buying before heading out to the grocery store. This way, you only focus on what you need, avoid what you don't need, and save some money.

2. Buying in Bulk

There are several ways you can save money while shopping. Another great idea in addition to having your own collapsible shopping bag is to buy in bulk, whenever possible. Typically grocery stores will offer better deals when you buy in bulk.

Some examples of this might be a buy one get one free deal, percentage discounts, or bulk boxes with more products in one package. There are so many ways to save money while shopping that it's worth it to do your research and find what works for you.

3. Using Coupons Can Save You Money on Groceries

Using coupons is another great way to save money while Shopping. Use sites like Groupon or RetailMeNot to find the best deals. But do your research first, so you don't fall for a coupon scam or an online coupon code that doesn't work.

In addition, many sites have catalogs, special coupons, and deals that go out to loyal customers. If you shop at Kroger, for example, you can sign up for their loyalty program and immediately access tons of savings simply by being a member.

4. Compare Store Prices

There are certain grocery stores that are simply more expensive than others. Typically, one grocery store might make a little more profit on a particular item than another one. Then, they might be cheaper when it comes time to buy another particular product.

For this reason, a seasoned bargain shopper will get good at tracking prices, have their own retail shopping bags, and find out quickly which store has the best deals for each product. This way, they know which store has the cheapest milk, cereal, meat, and so on.

5. Avoiding Impulse Purchases

We have all been there. You are at the checkout and pulling out your collapsible shopping bag when you see a delicious candy bar, gum, or extra snack by the register. Out of impulse, you choose to buy it and consume it immediately.

Buying items out of impulse that you don't need can get expensive. So when shopping, avoid doing this as much as possible. For best results, stick to the list that you made before coming in. This way, you never run into

6. Meal planning can save you money on groceries.

According to the USDA, the average American family spends $1,858 per year on food. While this may not seem like a lot, it can add up if you spend that much money on groceries every week. Making an effort to plan your meals and shopping for produce and other items that will last you longer than a week can go a long way in helping you save money while grocery shopping

7. Picking Cheaper Brands

One of the best ways that you can save a lot of money is by comparing prices for different brands of the same product and buy the one that is cheaper. Just like using retail shopping bags, this may not save you a whole lot of money upfront, but the cost does add up.

Therefore, always consider other brands when you're making a purchase. That way, you can find the most affordable one for you and your family.

8. Making Your Own Soups and Sauces

Making your own soups and sauces from scratch is a great way to save money when it comes to groceries. It may be tempting to simply buy the premade soup or sauce that you see sitting on the shelf, but it will always come at an extra cost.

To save some money, having your own collapsible shopping bag is only part of the equation. If you gather all the raw materials and make your own soups and sauces you will likely both experience better food and also save some money while you're at it.

8. Shop at Discount Stores

Grocery shopping can be a burden on your budget. While the prices at major supermarkets are higher than ever, many of the products offered are more expensive than brands you can find at discount stores.

Although they may not have the selection or brand name recognition, these stores often sell comparable items at a much lower price. In addition, many offer free retail shopping bags, loyalty cards, and coupons.

10. Bringing Your Own Bags

Finally, one of the easiest ways to save lots of money while grocery shopping is to start bringing a collapsible shopping bag with you. This is often a great way to counter the price tacked on for buying plastic bags. As we all know, small charges add up over time.