Grocery shopping is one of those necessary tasks we all have to tackle, but did you know that when you shop can make a big difference in your experience—and your wallet?
Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepping pro, or just someone trying to stretch their budget, picking the right day (and time) to hit the store can save you time, money, and stress.
Let’s break it down!
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If you can pick a day and time to save money, why not give it a try? It’s a simple option to try to keep more money in your pocket!
The Best Day to Grocery Shop
While it can vary depending on your local store, some days are better than others. (These are just opinions, and they will vary by location, store, and dates.)
- Weekday Mornings (Tuesday or Wednesday): These are often the least crowded days to shop. Stores are typically restocked after the weekend rush, so you’ll find the freshest produce and fully stocked shelves. Plus, many stores roll out midweek sales or discounts to keep traffic steady.
- Early Saturday Morning: If weekends are your only option, aim to go early. Stores are quieter, and you’ll beat the crowds that tend to show up mid-morning. Plus, you’ll have the first pick of any weekend sales or markdowns.
- Avoid Sundays: Sundays are often the busiest day for grocery stores, as people stock up for the week ahead. If you must shop on Sunday, try going later in the evening when the crowds have thinned.
It’s also super important to note that the grocery store will be the BUSIEST when there is a mega sale – or bad weather in the forecast. People love to stock up!
Tips to Save Money at the Grocery Store
- Plan Ahead: Make a list and stick to it. Impulse buys can quickly add up, so having a plan helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary purchases.
- Shop Sales and Use Coupons: Check your store’s weekly ad or app for deals. Many stores offer digital coupons you can load onto your loyalty card for extra savings.
- Buy in Bulk (When It Makes Sense): For non-perishable items like rice, pasta, or canned goods, buying in bulk can save you money in the long run. Just make sure you’ll actually use what you buy!
- Shop Seasonally: Fresh produce is often cheaper (and tastier) in season. For example, buy strawberries in the summer and squash in the fall.
- Compare Unit Prices: Don’t just look at the total price—check the unit price (usually listed in small print on the shelf tag) to see which size or brand offers the best value.
- Consider Store Brands: Store-brand items are often just as good as name brands but cost significantly less. Give them a try—you might be pleasantly surprised!
Ways to Make Grocery Shopping Easier
- Go During Off-Peak Hours: Early mornings or late evenings are typically the least crowded times to shop. You’ll spend less time waiting in line and more time getting on with your day.
- Use Curbside Pickup or Delivery: Many stores now offer convenient pickup or delivery options if you hate navigating crowded aisles. Some even waive fees if you meet a minimum order amount.
- Shop with a Full Stomach: It’s an old tip, but it works! Shopping hungry can lead to impulse buys and unhealthy choices. Eat a snack before you go to stay focused.
- Organize Your List by Aisle: If you know your store’s layout, group items on your list by category (produce, dairy, etc.) to save time and avoid backtracking.
Bonus: Save Even More with These Hacks
- Join Loyalty Programs: Many stores offer free loyalty programs that give you access to exclusive discounts and rewards. They’re FREE to join and really do just give you more coupons and savings – FREE.
- Check for Markdowns: Look for discounted items, especially meat, bread, and produce, that are nearing their expiration date. These items are still perfectly good and can be frozen for later use. (and if you notice an expiration date is coming up within the next 2-3 days, ask for discount and see what happens!)
- Meal Plan Around Sales: Plan your meals based on what’s on sale that week. It’s a great way to try new recipes while staying on budget.
The best day to grocery shop ultimately depends on your schedule, but aiming for a quieter time, like a weekday morning, can make the experience much more pleasant.
Combine that with a little planning and some savvy shopping strategies, and you’ll save money and make grocery shopping a breeze.!
