With grocery prices steadily climbing across the UK, millions of households are feeling the pinch. Whether you’re a student, a working family, or retired on a fixed income, cutting down your supermarket bills can lead to major savings. But where do you start when prices seem to rise every month?
In this post, we break down 10 practical, realistic tips you can use today to reduce your grocery spending—without sacrificing nutrition or convenience.
1. Start with a Weekly Meal Plan
Planning your meals ahead of time isn’t just for organised people—it’s one of the most powerful ways to save money.
When you plan meals:
- You avoid impulse buys
- You only buy what you need
- You reduce food waste
Start by writing down 5–7 meals for the week, then make a shopping list based on the ingredients you need.
2. Use Discount Supermarkets
While big-name supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s offer convenience, switching to Aldi or Lidl can cut your grocery bill by 25–30%.
Aldi and Lidl consistently rank high in quality and low in price, and their limited product range actually helps you spend less by avoiding unnecessary choices.
3. Compare Unit Prices, Not Shelf Prices
A common trick supermarkets use is offering bigger packaging that seems like a better deal—but isn’t.
Always check the unit price (per 100g or per litre) on the label. You’ll often find that a smaller item offers better value. This small habit saves money every single week.
4. Embrace “Yellow Sticker” Bargains
UK supermarkets regularly mark down perishable items nearing their expiry dates.
Look out for the famous yellow stickers on:
- Fresh meat
- Bread
- Fruits and vegetables
Tip: Visit stores in the evening (between 6 pm and 9 pm) to find the best markdowns.
5. Swap Brands for Own-Label
Branded products often charge you extra for marketing, not quality.
Try switching to:
- Tesco’s “Everyday Value”
- Sainsbury’s “Stamford Street”
- Morrisons “Savers”
- Asda’s “Smart Price”
In many blind tests, shoppers can’t even tell the difference—yet your wallet will definitely feel it.
6. Buy in Bulk (When It Makes Sense)
Staples like:
- Rice
- Pasta
- Flour
- Canned goods
…often cost less per unit when bought in bulk. But beware: only buy in bulk if:
- You’ll actually use it
- It won’t expire before you do
Join warehouse clubs like Costco or find bulk deals online via Approved Food (great for clearance deals).
7. Use Grocery Cashback Apps
Apps like Shopmium, GreenJinn, and CheckoutSmart offer instant cashback on everyday grocery items.
You just:
- Browse available offers
- Buy the item from your usual store
- Upload a receipt and get cashback
It’s an easy way to save a few quid every shop, especially on branded items.
8. Shop Online and Stick to the List
Online grocery shopping helps you avoid temptation (no walking past aisles of snacks and chocolate).
Bonus: most websites now track your past purchases, so you can repeat your usual list and avoid overspending.
Use services like:
- Tesco.com
- Sainsburys.co.uk
- Iceland Online
- Ocado (if you’re flexible with brands)
9. Avoid Midweek “Top-Up” Shops
Running to the shop for “just milk and bread” can easily turn into spending £20 on things you didn’t need.
Stick to your main weekly shop as much as possible. If you forget something, make a quick list and send someone else who’s less likely to impulse buy!
10. Grow a Few Basics at Home
You don’t need a garden—just a few windowsills or balcony space.
Try growing:
- Herbs (basil, mint, parsley)
- Salad leaves
- Tomatoes (especially in summer)
- Chilli peppers
It’s cheaper, fresher, and you’ll feel great using something you grew yourself. Starter kits are available on Amazon UK for under £10.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Savings
Cutting down grocery costs isn’t about extreme couponing or living off beans—it’s about making small, smart changes that add up over time.
Whether you start meal planning, use cashback apps, or shop at Aldi, the key is consistency. Build these habits slowly, and your grocery bill will start shrinking in no time.
