Hello Summer! It is officially the season that brings sunshine, vacations, and the joy of having the kids home from school. However, with the little ones around, your grocery shopping experience may be more expensive and hectic.
Do not worry! In this blog post, we will dive into how to create a budget-friendly grocery shopping list to keep your summer grocery expenses in check and even help get the kids involved.
Meal Planning
Planning meals is a game-changer when it comes to saving money on groceries. Set aside around 20 minutes each week to sit down and map out your family’s meals. Consider their preferences, the ingredients you already have, and the length of time you would like these groceries to last you.
Stick to this list! This will help you know exactly what to buy which reduces the chances of impulse purchases and wasted food. Grocery stores are designed to tempt shoppers with eye-catching displays and enticing deals. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach, as hunger can lead to impulsive food choices. If you come across an appealing item that's not on your list, take a moment to consider if it's a necessary purchase or a mere impulse. Your wallet will thank you!
Example: One-Day Meal Prep
Breakfast: Overnight Oats
Lunch: Quinoa Salad
Dinner: Baked Chicken Thighs with Assorted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini)
Grocery Shopping List:
Rolled oats
Milk (dairy or plant-based)
Honey or maple syrup
Fresh fruits (e.g., berries, bananas, watermelon, grapes, pineapple, melon)
Nuts or seeds (optional)
Quinoa
Cucumber
Cherry tomatoes
Bell peppers (assorted colors)
Red onion
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, basil, mint leaves)
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Chicken thighs
Garlic powder
Paprika
Assorted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini)
Hummus
Carrots
Buying Fresh and Local: Maximize Flavor and Savings
One of the advantages of summer is the abundance of fresh produce options. Visit your local farmer’s markets, or roadside stands, or consider growing your own small vegetable garden. Not only are fresh fruits and vegetables a healthier option but can also be more cost-effective than the off-season options at the grocery store.
Kansas City has more than 30 farmers markets to choose from!
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, shopping bags, and cash as there are over 140 vendors! Kristina Light shares all the information you could possibly need from tips and guides to time and location HERE.
Be a Savvy Shopper
When it's time to hit the grocery store, there are a few tricks to keep in mind:
Compare prices: Use price comparison apps or websites to find the best deals on the items you need. Check various stores in your area for affordable groceries. There are apps that will do all the work for you and help you stay within your budget: HERE
Look for sales and promotions: Stay alert for weekly flyers, digital coupons, and loyalty programs that can save you money. Take advantage of sales to stock up on non-perishable items to avoid paying full price later.
Opt for store brands: Try store or generic brands as they often offer comparable quality to name brands but at a lower cost. Give them a chance to see if they meet your family's expectations.
Buy in bulk wisely: Purchasing items in bulk can be cost-effective, but it's important to know your family’s consumption habits and how much space you have to store items. Staples like rice, pasta, canned goods, and snacks are great candidates for bulk purchases.
Involve the Kids
Getting the kids involved in grocery shopping can be both educational and fun. Teach them about budgeting, nutrition, and the importance of making smart choices. Assign them age-appropriate tasks, such as comparing prices, selecting fruits and vegetables, or finding items on the shopping list. By involving them, you can instill valuable life skills while creating a positive shopping experience.
Task example: Assign them a set amount of money or a specific section of the list, and encourage them to compare prices and make wise choices within their allocated budget. By involving them in decision-making based on price and value, you teach them the value of money and instill valuable budgeting skills from an early age.
Make sure to maintain an enjoyable experience for the kids by recognizing their contributions, commending their efforts, and showing appreciation for their assistance.
Conclusion
With the kids home during the summer, grocery shopping becomes even more important and challenging. However, by implementing these budget-friendly tips, you can keep your grocery expenses under control while satisfying the appetites of your growing family. Embrace meal planning, take advantage of seasonal produce, be a savvy shopper, and involve the kids. With a little effort and smart choices, you can create a grocery shopping routine that keeps your wallet happy and your family well-fed throughout this summer season.
