It happens to the best of us. You go to the grocery store with a clear idea of what you need and end up coming home with all sorts of stuff you never intended to buy. Although a few extra items here and there might not seem like the biggest deal, these expenses can add up over time.
But how can you break this habit? Creating a weekly grocery budget is a great place to start. Then, of course, the hard part is actually sticking to it.
If you’d like to learn how to follow a weekly grocery budget without fail, this guide is for you. Read on for tips and tricks on budgeting for groceries—no matter how much you have to spend.
Setting a Realistic Grocery Budget
When you’re creating a weekly grocery budget you need to make sure it’s a realistic one. Obviously, you’re making a budget for a reason—so you don’t overspend on groceries each week. But it’s not a good idea to lowball it and then find yourself unable to stay within your budget each month.
So what is a realistic budget? One good way to do this is to take a look at what you usually spend. Look at the previous 2 months and get an average weekly figure. If you suspect it’s a little on the high side, try going 10% or even 20% under for a few weeks and see how that feels.
If you’re unsure about what’s realistic, try using budgeting tools to help you. There are also lots of handy apps that can help you create a budget not just for your groceries, but your entire financial life.
Always Make a Grocery List
The cardinal rule for sticking to your budget is to always always always make a grocery list before you go to the store. If you don’t do this, you’re far more likely to succumb to impulse buys or purchase things you don’t really need.
Write down everything you need (priced so you can track your spending). Then stick to that list no matter what when you get to the store. This is the most simple way to make sure you keep your spending within your budget.
Hold Yourself Accountable
If you’ve got bad spending habits, it can be tough to break them. Accountability is key in these situations. Why not try sharing your budget with a trusted friend or loved one, so that they can help you track your progress?
Meal Prepping Can Help You Save
If you thought meal prepping was only for avid gym-goers looking to gain muscle and lose fat then think again. Meal prepping can also be great from a financial point of view. When you buy things in bulk and plan out your meals, you’re going to be able to make savings on your groceries, which will help you adhere to that all-important budget.
Think About the Things You Need
If you’re still having issues with sticking to your grocery budget each week, stop and ask yourself why? Are there items on your grocery list you could do without? If you’re serious about sticking to your budget, it might be time to make some cutbacks.
Create Your Perfect Weekly Grocery Budget
Use these tips to create a weekly grocery budget and you’ll be heading toward your savings goals in no time. If you’re struggling to stick with it, don’t be too hard on yourself—practice makes perfect. For more grocery budgeting tips and tricks check out the rest of our content now.
