As the festive season approaches, many Australians are feeling the pinch with our finances.
The weekly grocery bill, a staple of our household budget, has become a significant source of concern. With Christmas on the horizon, the added expenses of gifts, decorations, and celebratory meals only amplify this stress.
According to recent findings from Finder’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker, a staggering 41 per cent of Australians now rank groceries among their top three most stressful expenses, a figure that has risen sharply since before the pandemic.
The culprit behind this anxiety? Inflation.
Over the past year, prices for everyday items like fruit, oils, fats, and eggs have soared by more than 9 per cent. While the rate of increase may be slowing, there’s little hope for a reversal, meaning that the cost of feeding a family or even just ourselves has become more burdensome.
This financial strain is felt more acutely by women, with 43 per cent reporting grocery-related stress, compared to 37 per cent of men.
However, it’s not all bad news. Here are some practical tips which you can start using today to save on your grocery bills and make the most of the festive season without breaking the bank.
Shop with a List and Plan Ahead
One of the most straightforward strategies is to shop with a list. By planning your meals and knowing exactly what you need before you set foot in the store, you can avoid those impulse buys that often go to waste. This method not only saves money but also ensures that every item purchased has a purpose in your meal planning.
Explore Different Supermarkets
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore different supermarkets. Finder research suggests that while ALDI may offer the lowest prices among the big three, it has a smaller range compared to Woolworths and Coles. Even if you don’t do your entire shop at ALDI, picking up bulk basics there can lead to significant savings over time.
Stock Up on Affordable Staples
Canned goods, such as beans, tomatoes, and frozen vegetables, are not only wallet-friendly but also nutritious and versatile. These staples can help you whip up hearty meals without breaking the bank and come with the added bonus of a long shelf life.
Leverage Supermarket Loyalty Programs
Supermarket loyalty programs are another way to save. If you’re not already signed up, it’s worth considering. With every shop, you accumulate points that can be redeemed for discounts or even converted to frequent flyer points. Just remember to swipe your card with every purchase to maximise your rewards.
Compare Prices Online
In the digital age, shopping online can also lead to better deals. Online platforms like Amazon offer pantry items often at lower prices than traditional supermarkets. You can snag an even better deal with Amazon’s Subscribe & Save service, which offers a 10 per cent discount for regular deliveries.
Don’t Double Up
Before shopping, take stock of what you already have. Planning meals around existing ingredients can prevent unnecessary purchases, reduce your grocery bill, and help reduce food waste.
Choose Seasonal Produce
Opting for seasonal fruits and vegetables can also lead to savings, as seasonality greatly affects prices in Australia.
Time Your Shopping Trips
Timing your shopping trips can also yield savings. Shopping later in the day can allow you to take advantage of markdowns on fresh produce, bakery items, and meats. Just make sure to use these items quickly to get the most value.
By adopting these tactics, you cannot only reduce the stress on your wallet but also enjoy the holiday season to the fullest. With a bit of savvy shopping and forward planning, we can all find ways to enjoy the festive season without financial worry.
What are your top tips for saving on groceries during the holiday season? Share your wisdom in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
