It seems like we are always talking about how to save money on one thing or another.  I mean, of course we are, that’s why were are here, right? To save money! But it does seem like we are always going over the same ways to save money over and over again.  That’s why today we are going to talk about unique ways that we can save money on groceries!

1. Leave the kids at home. Seriously, do not take the kids to the grocery store with you.  I don’t care if you have to run out at midnight while they are asleep and your spouse stays with them, but you will easily save money doing your shopping without the kids.  This is for two reasons:
   1. Kids are known to ask and ask for extras while you are shopping and because you are a good parent, you often consider buying it.  Avoid the temptation by leaving them at home.
   2. Kids are hard work, when you are focused on them, you can’t put all of your focus onto making sure you are staying under budget.  
2. Shop the clearance rack.  Okay, I know what you are thinking.  The clearance rack at the grocery store?  Yep! Here you will find foods that are nearing their expiration, are scratched or dented, the item has been discontinued, or the packaging has been changed up.  All perfectly good food, just at half the price or less!
3. Shop at pharmacies.  Weird, right? That said, pharmacies such at Rite Aid, CVS and Walgreens often have some really great deals on grocery items.
4. Bring your headphones with you and listen to upbeat music. I recently read that the slow music that they play in grocery stores is a way of calming you, therefore having you take more time, therefore having you spend more money.  Try playing your own music next time to see if that helps.
5. Avoid buying juice.  If juice is on your shopping list, don’t even look in the juice aisle.  Instead, check out the freezer section where they sell frozen juice concentrate.  This way you don’t have to pay for the water that has been added to the juice.