Lesson 3 of 3 · 1 minute read
Stretch your grocery money
Easy ways to spend less on food without eating less.
Food is one of the biggest costs that changes from week to week. That also means it’s one of the easiest places to save.
Plan before you shop
- Check what you already have at home.
- Plan a few simple meals for the week.
- Make a list, and try to stick to it.
Shopping hungry makes it harder to stick to your list, so eat first if you can.
Compare unit prices
The unit price is the price for one ounce, one pound, or one item. Many stores show it on the shelf tag, often in small print. It lets you compare different sizes and brands fairly. Bigger packages are often cheaper per ounce, but not always.
Try the store brand
Store brands are often cheaper than name brands, and many are just as good. Try one item at a time and see what you like.
Get help if you need it
If money for food is tight, you may qualify for programs like SNAP, which helps pay for groceries. The USA.gov Benefit Finder can show programs you might qualify for. You can also call or text 2-1-1 to find food banks near you.
Food is one of the easiest places to save. Plan a few meals and shop with a list.
Eat before you shop if you can. Shopping hungry makes it harder to stick to your list.
Check the unit price on the shelf tag. It is the price for one ounce or one item. It helps you compare fairly.
Try store brands. They often cost less, and many are just as good.
If money for food is tight, you may get help, like SNAP. Call or text 2-1-1 to find food banks near you.