Grocery shopper on a budget! Tip 1

Q. How do I cut costs at the grocery store?

A. Make a grocery list before you go shopping; it will get you out of the store faster and prevent you from spending money on things you don't need. Take advantage of sales! Check out the weekly grocery store ads before you go shopping and stock up on items that can be stored. Canned goods, pasta and grains have long shelf lives; poultry and meat freeze well. If a convenience item significantly reduces your time and hassles in the kitchen, it may be worth the extra cost. But anything that can be done quickly and easily at home, such as bagging small portions of chips and slicing cheese, can save you money.