5 tips to prepare you for easier shopping

For some people, grocery shopping is their most dreaded recurring task. A mundane duty that can easily take up a lot of time that could be spent on something else.  Especially with the current Covid 19 pandemic, this chore can feel daunting and stressful.  The good news is that hoarding is now on the decline and there are easy ways to make this experience more pleasant.  With a little advance planning, you can save time and money at the grocery store and be well on your way to eating great!  Follow these tricks before you even step foot in the store.

1. Make a menu plan for the week.  This is the start of creating your grocery list based on what you will be preparing.  I usually choose 3 main meals, then fill in with sandwiches, take-out, leftovers, and my family’s favorite – breakfast for dinner. 
2. Find the best deals.  I’m not a coupon person, but I do check out the sale ads for the local grocery stores.  It gives me inspiration for meal planning because often the things that are on sale are also freshest and in season!
3. Make a grocery list and categorize by store sections (dairy, produce, etc).  This will make it a breeze to make your way through the store and also will help you to avoid forgetting items or having to go all the way back to the other side of the store.  *In fact..keep a running grocery list easily at hand.  Write down things as you get low so that the item won’t be forgotten.  
4. Don’t shop hungry. You know you’ve been there; looking at all the food on the end caps that is NOT on your list.  Mmmmm, that looks good, and then, bam, it’s suddenly in the cart.  I’ve learned this the hard way, and still sometimes make this mistake…and then come home with so. much. junkfood. 
5. Make a plan to go when the store is less busy.  This can be a challenge at first to figure out what time that is for each store.  Generally weekday evenings and early weekend mornings are best.  You will feel less stress and be out quicker if the store is less crowded.

This may look like a lot of steps before your trip even begins, but following these tips will save time in the long run.  Get into the habit of keeping a list and adding things right away when you notice you are low.  Steps 1,2, and 4 are also helpful if you are doing grocery delivery.  Start planning today to make your next grocery store trip a smooth one!