Top 10 Tips For Grocery Shopping During the Recession

The economy is in a tailspin and people are scrambling to find ways to cut their overall expenses. Here are 10 tips on how to shop during the recession how to budget groceries.

1.)    Coupons, Coupons and more Coupons - Without a doubt, coupons are the best way to save, especially when you find stores that double coupons. Don't be embarrassed to use them, it just tells those watching that you are smart consumer, and people look up to that.

2.)    Plan - Unemployment is dangerously high and business is slow so if you have a little extra time, spend it in planning your grocery trip. Make a list, check store flyers and stay focused when you go to the stores. Avoid impulse buys.

3.)    Organize - Organizing in advance cuts down on shopping time and keeps your coupon file current. Nothing worse then getting to the store and having an expired coupon.

4.)    Check prices - Prices for some products are high, can you believe dried blueberries cost $8 for a tiny package? Check the prices on the products, when you realize how expensive certain products are you might be more willing to pass on them.

5.)    Compare stores - Choosing the correct supermarket is important, it can mean a difference of up to 20% or more on your bill. Look for stores that have a good selection of products, are clean, double coupons and have good customer service.

6.)    Choose less expensive alternatives - $29 per pound for filet mignon or $12 for a Flank Steak? Get creative on your cooking recipes and look into good spices and marinades. Sometime the less expensive alternatives actually taste better!

7.)    Keep an eye out for special coupons - Duane read just had a 20% coupon on anything in the store when you spend $100. These types of coupons are great, but make sure you are getting real savings. Anything less then 15% is not worth the effort.

8.)    Forget brand loyalty - Some products are sacred and you wouldn't dare change them, but if you change from Crest to Colgate or vice versa will you really notice?

9.)    Avoid gourmet grocery stores - This is a tricky one because some stores actually have gourmet and health foods for cheap, but for the most part, gourmet stores are much more expensive and you can get the same or similar products at the low cost alternative.