Grocery shopping can feel like a chore, but with rising food prices and busy schedules, it’s important to make every trip count. Whether you’re shopping for a family of five or just yourself, small changes can make a big difference in your grocery bill and meal quality. We spoke to Jenna Lewis, a grocery operations and consumer habits expert with 15 years of supermarket management experience, to learn her top strategies for shopping smarter.
Here are five expert-approved ways to shop smarter at the supermarket:
1. Always Go in with a Plan – and Stick to It“Impulse buys account for nearly 60% of grocery spend overruns,” Jenna says. She recommends creating a weekly meal plan before heading to the store, noting down exact ingredients needed and checking your pantry first to avoid duplicates. Stick to your list as closely as possible. “If it’s not on your list, ask yourself twice if you really need it.”
Tip: Arrange your list by store layout (produce, dairy, pantry staples, frozen) to cut down wandering time, which often leads to impulse purchases.
2. Shop the Perimeter First“The healthiest and often most budget-friendly foods are along the perimeter – fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bakery,” Jenna explains. Inner aisles house packaged and processed foods with higher markups. Start your shop by filling your cart with perimeter essentials before you venture into the aisles for pantry items.
3. Avoid Peak Shopping Hours
Crowded aisles and long checkout lines can lead to rushed decisions and overlooked deals. “If possible, shop early in the morning or late evening on weekdays,” she advises. Not only are stores quieter, but shelves are often freshly stocked. “You’ll have access to fresh produce and marked-down items nearing their sell-by dates.”
4. Compare Unit Prices, Not Just Shelf Prices
Jenna emphasizes checking unit prices (cost per kg, lb, or liter) to find the true value. “A larger pack may seem expensive upfront but can save you money long term.” Conversely, she warns that bulk purchases aren’t always cheaper if you end up wasting unused portions. Evaluate your household’s realistic consumption before buying bulk.
5. Don’t Shop Hungry
It may sound simple, but it’s scientifically proven: shopping hungry leads to higher spending on impulse snack foods and convenience items. “Have a light meal or snack before you shop,” Jenna suggests. “Your decision-making will be clearer, and you’re less likely to grab unnecessary treats.”
Shopping smarter isn’t about cutting out everything you love; it’s about buying intentionally. With a plan, awareness of pricing, and strategic habits, you can reduce food waste, save money, and ensure your kitchen is stocked with nutritious essentials. As Jenna concludes, “Think of your grocery store as your investment portfolio – small changes compound into big returns for your health and budget.”
