Here are some tips to make sure your spending stays in control while out food shopping.
Before you head to the supermarket, sit down and plan your meals for the week. You’ll be able to write a list of everything you need – whether it’s ingredients or pre-made meals. Make sure you check your cupboards to see what you already have. Think about leftovers too – can they be saved for lunch the next day?
A shopping list can help reduce the risk of you forgetting anything and, if you stick to it, may help curb those impulse purchases.
Working out how much you have to spend on food alongside other costs can help you set yourself a spending limit. You could break this down weekly or monthly, or whenever you plan on buying your food.
Use our budget planner to help.
If you’ve opened a student current account, you may also have access to mobile or online banking on compatible devices, which can help you keep track of your money.
Look out for reduced stickers and check out the reduced section to see if you can snap up a bargain. Some supermarkets start reducing items nearing their sell-by date in the evening – so it may be worth doing your food shop a bit later in the day if you’re able to.
Try different aisles in the supermarket to find the best deals. You’ll often see 2-for-1 deals, special offers and bulk buy discounts. There are also savings to be made on own brand products.
If you live in a share house or halls, see if any of your roommates want to split the cost of bulk buy items or deals.
Coupons can be a good way to help bring down the cost of your shopping. You may be able to find coupons to use online, or in any flyers sent out by shops.
Some supermarkets may have loyalty cards you can use which build up points and convert into coupons.
If you can’t trust yourself to stay away from impulse buys and other items, try doing your food shop online.
You’ll be able to follow your shopping list without straying and you can do it all from the comfort of your home. You may need to pay for the delivery of your shopping, so make sure to factor that into your budget.
