Perhaps you recently obtained a cash loan and want to use it wisely or are simply dedicated to budget-conscious decisions. Whatever your motives are for making smart money choices, one of the easiest places to unintentionally spend extra funds is the grocery store. Use this quick guide to ensure grocery store spending is always on the winning side of your budget.

Do:

Clip Coupons & Review Weekly Specials

Make a habit of reviewing grocery store circulars for the latest items on sale before going shopping. It will help you spend less time in the store to decrease the chances of impulse purchases because you know which items are discounted. Also, start clipping and downloading coupons, including manufacturer’s coupons and those from coupon sites and store apps, to save money on favorite products.

Create a Shopping List

Write out a grocery list and stick to it. Having a list to follow not only shortens shopping time, but it also prevents your eyes from wandering and buying items you don’t need, including those low in nutritional value. Review your cart’s contents prior to getting in line—if there are items not on your list that you do not need, put them back.

Join a Rewards Program

Research the rewards programs for grocery stores you frequent to help your cash loan stretch further. Most stores offer loyalty programs that provide discount codes, freebies, and coupons. Rewards programs usually work on points systems—the more points you earn, the more discounts you get.

Don’t:

Shop When You’re Hungry

Enjoy a meal or filling snack before grocery shopping. Studies find shopping on an empty stomach makes it easy to spend more money because everything looks extra irresistible, especially high-calorie foods that immediately satisfy taste buds.

Forget to Compare Prices

Compare the prices of favorite brands to their generic counterparts, as the latter are usually less expensive. Also, compare the prices of items on sale since store brand versions might still be cheaper, and avoid buying perishable items in bulk. Even if they appear less expensive, you will likely end up wasting food and money.

Buy Out-of-Season Produce

Purchase seasonal produce to cut costs. The food is fresher and more nutritious, and less expensive because it’s local. Exotic produce and fare that is not in season costs more to ship and transport, which increases energy costs and pollutes the environment. 

If you need a cash loan to fund upcoming expenses, contact Advance U Cash in Florence, KY. The company specializes in quick cash advances, including payday advances, following income documentation and a 30-day bank account history check. Call (859) 746-2274 today with questions or learn more about quick cash loans online.