Family budget management begins in everyday decisions. Going to the supermarket without planning is one of these situations that can lead to spending above necessary, even without changes in consumer habits. And that’s where many of the savings opportunities reside.
According to the Accounts-Fate website, a significant part of the purchases of many families is, in practice, waste. Even those who earn income above the minimum wage can benefit from simple strategies to buy more efficiently.
Start with a list and fulfill it
One of the first recommendations is to make a shopping list before leaving home. According to the same source, this habit avoids impulse purchases and ensures that only what is really needed is acquired.
Buying “at the taste of shelves” and promotions can lead to unnecessary expenses on products that were not foreseen and sometimes not even consumed.
Compare prices with criteria
Comparing prices between brands and formats helps reduce monthly expense. Write the accounts-to-compliance that a attentive consumer can save up to 25 euros per month, representing an annual economy of 300 euros, just for making informed choices between shelves and stores.
In addition, the price per liter or pound is the most reliable indicator to compare packaging. A larger package does not always mean greater advantage.
Maintain an inventory and avoid duplications
Another effective practice is to maintain a record of what already exists in the pantry, freezer or refrigerator. According to the same source, having an updated inventory avoids repeated purchases and helps control expiration terms.
Before leaving home, just consult this registration or even photograph it to ensure that there are no excesses.
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Opt for simple products and avoid pre-watershed
Pre-cut or pre-lavated products are generally more expensive. Laminated mushrooms and ready -made salads can cost up to 2 or 3 euros per kilo against fresh. It refers to the publication that, in just one minute, it is possible to save in cutting and washing, without sacrificing the quality.
The same applies to whole meat and fish, which come out cheaper per kilo and allow us to take advantage of leftovers in other meals.
Buy bulk, accumulate discounts and use white brands
Dry fruits, cereals and legumes are some examples of products that can be purchased at large price difference. According to the same source, this habit allows not only to save, but also to reduce the use of packaging.
Loyalty cards remain a useful tool. Registering several family members can multiply discounts. White marks, in turn, often offer the same quality as brands known at a significantly lower cost.
Plan meals and avoid waste
Weekly meal planning helps you buy in the supermarket only what you need, in the right quantities. It refers to what this strategy reduces waste and allows you to adapt purchases to real promotions.
Consult leaflets and take advantage of opportunities to buy in quantity when justified are practices that reinforce the efficiency of the budget.
Local commerce and avoid hunger shopping
Traditional trade can have better prices on some products, such as fruits, meat and fish. In addition, it limits exposure to temptations in the hypermarket corridors.
Finally, the simplest recommendation: never go to hungry shopping. According to the same source, it is almost guaranteed that unnecessary products are purchased when going to the supermarket before meals.
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