Going to the supermarket can be a challenge for anyone’s budget, especially with prices that seem to rise constantly. But the good news is that there are many ways to save money without sacrificing quality or the items you need. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips that could make all the difference to your pocket in 2025.
Make a list before you leave the house
One of the biggest mistakes when going to the supermarket is not having a plan. Making a list helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and ensures that you only focus on what you really need. Before drawing up the list, check your pantry, fridge and cupboards to avoid buying items you already have. Also, organize items by category, such as fresh food, canned goods, dairy products and cleaning products, to speed up shopping and avoid going through the aisles more often than necessary.
Set a shopping budget
Before you leave the house, set yourself a limit for spending at the supermarket. This helps control the impulse to add extra items to the trolley. One tip is to carry a calculator or use mobile apps that allow you to record prices while you shop, ensuring that you don’t go over your budget. Another strategy is to carry cash, avoiding the excessive use of cards, which can increase the risk of exceeding the limits you have set.
Take advantage of promotions and discounts
Keep an eye out for weekly promotions and special discounts. Taking advantage of these offers can generate significant savings over the course of the month. Many stores offer loyalty programs, digital coupons or their own apps that make it easier to access exclusive offers. In addition, plan your shopping around promotions, taking the opportunity to stock up on non-perishable items that are at reduced prices. Just be careful not to buy something you won’t use, even if it’s cheap.
Compare prices between different brands
Don’t stick to just one brand. Generic brands often offer similar quality products at a much more affordable price. Always read the labels and compare the list of ingredients or nutritional information to make sure the product meets your needs. Also, look at the price per unit of measurement (such as per kilo or liter), which is usually indicated on price tags, to identify the most economical option. Try out new brands and see which ones deliver the best value for money.
Buy from wholesalers whenever possible
If you have space to stock up, buying from wholesalers can be a great way to save on basic, non-perishable items. Products such as rice, beans, toilet paper and cleaning products generally have much lower prices when bought in larger quantities. To maximize the benefits, combine purchases with friends or family and share the costs and products. Remember to check the shelf life of items before buying them in large quantities, to avoid wastage.
Avoid impulse purchases
You know that bar of chocolate that looks irresistible in the checkout line? Avoid falling prey to these temptations. Impulse purchases can put your budget out of balance. A good strategy is to go to the supermarket fed, as hunger can lead to less rational decisions. Also, stay focused on your shopping list and avoid wandering down aisles that don’t contain the items you need. Another tip is to set a limit for spending on small “treats” and stick to it.
Give preference to seasonal produce
Fruits, vegetables and greens in season are usually cheaper and fresher. This also guarantees a healthier diet. In addition to the lower price, seasonal products are tastier because they are in their natural harvest period, which also reduces the use of preservatives and other chemical treatments. Research which foods are in season before you go shopping and vary your recipes according to availability. Fairs and local markets often offer even better prices for these products.
Use cashback apps and coupons
Technology is your ally. There are many apps that offer cash back or discount coupons for supermarkets. This may not seem like much, but over time it makes a big difference. Apps such as Méliuz, Cuponeria and PicPay often have partnerships with supermarket chains, allowing you to get some of your money back or use exclusive discounts. Another tip is to monitor apps from the stores themselves, which often offer personalized promotions based on your purchase history.
Prefer supermarket own brands
Supermarket own brands are generally cheaper and have competitive quality. It’s worth trying them out! These products, which range from basic items such as rice and sugar to cleaning and hygiene products, are often manufactured by the same suppliers as traditional brands. What’s more, supermarkets are increasingly investing in improving the quality of these lines in order to build customer loyalty, making them a great option for those who want to save money without giving up the essentials.
Plan meals to avoid waste
Before you buy, think about the meals you’re going to prepare. This helps to avoid waste and unnecessary purchases. A good practice is to draw up a weekly menu, listing the ingredients needed for each dish. This way, you only buy what you’re actually going to use, preventing perishable foods from spoiling in the fridge. Also, use leftovers to create new recipes, such as turning rice into dumplings or using vegetables for soups and broths.
Take advantage of local fairs
As well as helping small producers, local fairs tend to offer lower prices, especially at the end of the day when the vendors want to empty their stock. Another advantage is the possibility of negotiating directly with the sellers, which can guarantee extra discounts, especially if you buy in larger quantities. At fairs, you can also find fresh products of a higher quality than those available in supermarkets, which increases the cost-benefit ratio of your purchase.
How to save money by buying online
Many supermarkets offer the option of online shopping. Use this tool to compare prices and avoid impulsive spending, as you can check your cart before finalizing your purchase. In addition, many platforms offer exclusive discounts for digital purchases, such as free shipping or promotions for first orders. Another advantage is being able to schedule regular deliveries, saving time and ensuring that you always have the essentials at home. Remember to check reviews and prices in different stores to get the best value for money.
Conclusion: Simple changes, big results
Saving money at the supermarket in 2025 doesn’t have to be complicated. With planning, discipline and intelligent use of technology, you can significantly reduce your spending and still ensure that your home is always stocked up. Small changes in shopping habits, such as preferring own brands, planning meals and taking advantage of promotions, have a positive impact not only on your budget, but also on your quality of life. Start implementing these tips today and see how you can save money without giving up the essentials.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to save money even with high supermarket prices?
Yes! With planning and taking advantage of promotions, you can save even in times of inflation.
2. What are the best days to shop?
Many supermarkets offer promotions at the beginning of the week or on specific days, such as Wednesdays and Fridays.
3. Are cashback apps really worth it?
Yes, they help you recover part of the amount you spend and can be very useful over time.
4. Is it advantageous to buy in large quantities?
It depends. If you have space to store and the product is not perishable, it can be a great way to save money.
5. How do I avoid wasting food?
Plan your meals, buy only what you need and store food correctly to increase its shelf life.
