Tip #1: Shop in-season produce

Produce that is in-season costs much less and tastes better! When fruits and vegetables are in season, grocery stores often have larger supplies, which can help drive prices down. Look for sales on seasonal favorites and consider trying produce you may not normally buy. Shopping at local farmers markets can also be a good way to find in-season options, although prices can vary. If you find a great deal on produce that you enjoy, consider buying extra and freezing it for later.

Tip #2: Try “Meatless Mondays”

The cost of meat can take up a lot of your grocery budget. To reduce this cost, choose one day a week where you eat plant proteins (like beans, peas, and soy products) instead of animal proteins. Beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu and peas can be affordable sources of protein and can be used in a variety of meals, including soups, tacos, pasta dishes, casseroles and salads. You can also stretch your meat purchases by combining a smaller amount of meat with plant-based proteins, vegetables or grains.

Tip #3: Make it from scratch

Prepackaged and precut items cost more because they’re more convenient. Save money by purchasing whole produce and creating individual servings at home with your own containers or plastic bags. Save even more money by making meals at home instead of eating out. Cooking larger portions can also help you get more value from your groceries. Save leftovers for another meal or freeze extra portions for days when you don’t have time to cook. Simple meals such as soups, sandwiches, pasta, rice and bean dishes can often be made with inexpensive ingredients you already have at home.

Tip #4: Spice it up!

Using spices to season your food is a great way to cut back on added sodium and fat. To find spices that are less expensive, check out the international aisle for better prices. Buying larger containers of spices you use often can also cost less per serving than purchasing smaller containers. Experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices and seasonings to add variety to familiar meals without needing to purchase expensive sauces or specialty ingredients. Just remember to check labels, as some seasoning blends can still contain added sodium.

Tip #5: Weekly Ads

Before planning your meals or writing out a shopping list, check your grocery store’s Weekly Ads to figure out what items you need to buy and stock up on. This way you can build your grocery list using the items that are on sale that week. Most stores start their weekly sales on Wednesday and end on Tuesday. Free smartphone apps like Flipp can help you search weekly ads all in one place!

Use weekly ads to plan meals around sale items rather than deciding what to make first and looking for the ingredients afterward. If a healthy staple you regularly use is on sale and has a long shelf life, consider purchasing enough to last until the next sale. Just be careful not to buy more than you can use before it expires. A good deal only saves money if the food actually gets eaten.

Tip #6: Sign up for store savings cards and clubs

Some stores offer additional discounts for shoppers using their savings cards or those registered with their shopping clubs. This can save you money on groceries and maybe even gas! Check out free smartphone apps that can send digitally clipped coupons directly to your savings card. Publix has a smartphone app and website that allows you to digitally clip coupons and sign up for special clubs that offer additional discounts. To use digital coupons, all you have to do is type in your phone number at the checkout counter!

Other stores may offer personalized discounts based on the items you purchase regularly. Before you shop, check your account or app for available coupons and promotions so you don’t miss out on savings. Keep in mind that a coupon isn’t a savings if it encourages you to purchase something you wouldn’t normally buy. Focus on discounts for foods and household items you already need.

Tip #7: Create a list and stick to it

By using a carefully planned shopping list, you can save yourself a lot of money and time! Use free smartphone apps to help you create a shopping list and organize it by how your store is laid out. Before heading to the store, take a quick look through your refrigerator, freezer and pantry so you don’t buy items you already have.

Planning your list around meals for the week can also help you avoid last-minute purchases or unnecessary trips to the grocery store. Give yourself some flexibility to take advantage of a good sale, but try to avoid impulse purchases that aren’t part of your plan. A list can also help you remember staple items and reduce the amount of food that goes to waste.

Tip #8: Buy canned or frozen

Purchasing fresh produce can sometimes seem like a waste of money because it can spoil so quickly. To save money and eat more produce, buy canned and frozen produce instead. Be aware that canned items can be high in sodium, so go for the ones labeled “low sodium”, “no salt added”, or “reduced sodium.” Make these your staple items and be sure to buy in bulk when on sale so you will always have fruits and vegetables to enjoy with your meals.

Frozen fruits and vegetables can be especially useful because they can be stored for longer periods without spoiling. They can also be just as convenient as fresh produce when you’re preparing meals. Look for canned fruit packed in water or its own juice rather than options with added sugar. When purchasing frozen vegetables, choose options without added sauces when possible to keep costs and added sodium lower.

Tip #9: Matching competitor coupons

Many stores will allow shoppers to use competitor coupons. Be sure to ask so you don’t waste any coupons! Coupon policies can vary by store and may change over time, so check with your local store before shopping. Some stores may also have limits on the number or types of competitor coupons they accept.

When possible, combine a competitor coupon with a store sale or another eligible promotion to increase your savings. Keep your coupons organized and check expiration dates before heading to the store so you can make the most of the discounts available to you.

Tip #10: Get cash back for grocery shopping

Free smartphone apps like iBotta, Snap by Groupon, and Checkout51 allow you to scan your grocery receipts to redeem offers and get cash back in the form of a check, gift card, or transfer to a PayPal account!

Cash-back offers can change frequently, so check the app before you shop to see whether items you already plan to purchase qualify for a rebate. Some apps require you to activate an offer before buying the item, while others may have specific instructions for submitting your receipt. Don’t purchase something simply because it offers cash back—the goal is to save money on groceries you were already planning to buy. Also, keep in mind that app names, offers and redemption options can change over time.