Money Management: Successful Grocery Budgeting and Shopping

Table of Contents

Whys and Hows

A recent release of a survey by the RBC (Royal Bank of Canada), reported on the importance Ontario residents place on keeping their food costs under control.

In RBC’s Canadian Consumer Outlook for the first quarter of 2013 – of the 866 Ontario residents who took part in the study:

  • 80% believed food prices had increased in the last year
  • 58% said they now do more comparison shopping for food than in the past
  • 33% said that increasing food prices will have a significant impact on their budget

Whether you are in the 33% or simply want to take control of your food budget – here are some tips on successful food budgeting and shopping:

Keep Your Food Budget Reasonable and Doable

  • You stand a much better chance of making your food budget work if it is realistic.
  • Take the time to figure out exactly what you need for your food budget.
  • Write your budget down – and make a commitment to following it.
  • Track you success by recording the amount of money you spend on food. Use your receipts to keep it accurate.
  • Review and update your budget – to keep it relevant and doable.

Know Your Stores

  • Make a point of finding the grocery store that meets your needs, has consistently lower prices, and is not too hard to get to.
  • While it might be worth your while to take advantage of sales at multiple stores – remember to factor in transportation and time costs.

Know Your Prices

  • Keep a price journal / notebook – where you can track prices of those items that your routinely buy
  • It does not have to be complicated, just a lined notebook – and a commitment to keeping it current.

Make a List

  • Go through your pantry, fridge and freezer to determine exactly what you are low on.
  • Using flyers and coupons – create a shopping list of those items you will be buying.
  • Review your list to make sure it is within your budget and realistic.

When in the Store

  • Stick to your list – avoid impulse buying.
  • If you come across a great in-store sale – try to remove something of equal value from your list before you buy it.
  • Eat before you go grocery shopping – it will help you in you stick to your list.

After Grocery Shopping

  • Put all perishable foods away asap.
  • Record prices in your price notebook – using your grocery receipt(s).
  • Record the total you spent in your budget sheets.
  • Give yourself a pat on the back for taking the time to shop with a budget.

Don’t Give Up

Learn from your mistakes – and move on.

Remember

You and your financial well being are worth the effort.

Take Your First Step Towards A Debt Free Life

If you are overwhelmed by debt, call us at 1-844-962-9200 to book a FREE, confidential appointment. We will review your financial situation in detail and discuss all of your options with you. Alternatively, you can fill out the form below and our team will reach out to you. 

Share This!

I worked primarily with Christine, who was very friendly and outgoing. She was quick to help me, and explained everything I needed to know very well. She's quick to answer any questions I may have as well. The other members I spoke with were also very kind and jovial, and were happy to help me with anything they could. They made sure my proposal fit within my budget, and got everything going very quickly. I was happy to work with them, and would highly recommend their very friendly service!
Melissa McAllister
1695841291
Very processional and understanding of my situation. Thanks to all your team.
Luc Valade
1695320109
Jennifer Norton's exceptional assistance with my consumer proposal was life-changing. Her professionalism, expertise, and dedication were evident from the start. Jennifer's thorough explanations and attention to detail created a tailored proposal that set a clear path to financial freedom. She went above and beyond, advocating for my best interests and providing invaluable support. Thanks to Jennifer, I'm on track to a stress-free financial future. I wholeheartedly recommend her – she's not just a financial expert; she's a life-changer. Thank you, Jennifer!
Thomas
1695089142
They made a difficult situation, easy thank you.
Ray Barkley
1694806611
I had a great experience with Christine from David Sklar & associates. Very professional, and easy to get through. Thank you
fukinwith doug
1694804075
Great customer service and a smooth process to get your finances on track. Informative and thorough.
Adrian Downey
1694799042
From the moment I sat down in the office, I felt welcome and at ease. Grace Cuffaro was both friendly and highly informative. She is extremely knowledgeable and answered all of my questions in detail, making sure I understood before moving on. I was reassured throughout the process that I was making the right decision and that it was not uncommon nor anything to be ashamed of. I didn't expect my appointments to be such positive experiences, but that's exactly what they've been!
P Bains
1694670814
I was in a tough financial position and found myself searching for relief. I came across David Sklar & Associates page when doing my research on financial advice. The reviews were amazing, but I was concern because I didn’t know what to expect. I made the decision to set up a consultation and had the pleasure to meet with Jennifer Norton. Right from the beginning, she was attentive, knowledgeable, and pleasant to meet with. The experience was painless and very educational. Jennifer made sure I understood my choices, answered my questions, and concerns promptly, in person, over the phone and via email. I’ve been working with Jennifer for a couple months now and I am pleased that Jennifer is the manager handling my file. I would and have recommend Jennifer Norton, David Sklar & Associates to anyone in need of direction regarding finances.
A.L Thompson-Lawrence
1694547608
I had my first meeting with Jennifer, she was really understanding and extremely helpful, and got everything done in a timely manner.
Tamas Wint
1694534757
Jennifer Norton has been the most helpful throughout this truly embarrassing situation that I find myself in. She is informative, understanding, and there is absolutely no judgment. She has handled everything in a very professional and respectful manner and I am SO glad that I have them on my side. Definitely a huge weight off my shoulders.
Jody T
1694533927
js_loader
DS david skalr icon

Book your free consultation.

Call 1-844-962-9200 or fill out the form below. We’ll do the rest.

Contact Us