Never Grocery Shop Without A List!

Do you go to the grocery store and wander around?  Do you assume that you'll remember everything you need to buy?  Well, my advice is "Don't Shop Without A List! Ever!"  Why, you ask?  I can tell you from experience that it's next to impossible to remember all the little things that you need, the items that you are running low on, and the uncommon ingredients that you need for that special dish you want to make next week.  And remember, store managers are paid to distract you with "impulse buy" items that you will probably purchase if you don't have a plan in place!

I'm a little OCD, as my husband will tell you.  Years ago, as a new working mom, I made my own grocery list template by walking around our local store and writing down all the items that I would ever buy in aisle-order.  I typed them in columns, made lots of copies, and then I used a highlighter to mark the things I needed when I went to the store.  I got the idea from a teacher I worked with.  Since I try to grocery shop only once a week, I had to make the most of that one trip.  It worked beautifully for us for years.

Now I keep a pile of scrap paper and a pen near the fridge. When something is low or out I write it down.  I never go shopping without my list, it keeps me focused and stops me from buying things I don't need.

You could customize your own list and simply write down the department categories you shop in the most, "Produce, Cereal, Meat, Dairy, etc."  and leave space under each category for your needs.  Or you could search on google, there are plenty of lists to choose from.  Find one that suits you and use it!

If you want to trim your grocery spending, make simple meal plans and never shop without a list!!