18 Changes You Can Make to Save $200 On Your Monthly Grocery Bill

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2. Make a List

Now your research is done and now you know exactly what meals you and your family will be eating for the duration of the week. So, it’s time to compile a list of all the things you need.

The list will help you avoid making impulsive purchases. You can even make a pact with yourself to only buy things you’ve previously listed. The list will make sure you only visit sections of the store that hold the goods you need, so that’s no more cake counter at $3 a slice, or fresh pizza counter at $9 a pie. You’ll also feel more organized and not buy random items that don’t make sense.

If you’ve ever been to store and not planned your trip, you’ve probably come back with odd items that won’t work together in a meal. Additionally, the list will make sure you won’t forget any items, that means no more last-minute trips to convenience stores that will often charge you more for the thing that you forgot.