Anyone have any tips to share on sticking to a budget? We mostly spend too much money at the grocery store. It is so hard to not get that extra bag of chips, and it costs five dollars nowadays! I know the one about eating before you go so you're not hungry. And I take cash but when I get to the checkout I'll use my credit card if it's over what I brought rather than put stuff back.

Fr_Chuck

There is no trick really it is making a list of what you need and just not buying anything not on the list.

Also there is a food program that everyone can use, it will help keep your food costs down real low
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George_1950

Get rid of the credit card. Paraphrasing Dave Ramsey: he says that when we use a credit card, we spend about 15% more than necessary because it will work; but then, we must pay it off. Plan your meals, use a list, and cash only.

smearcase

Do you have a good accurate budget of all your monthly expenses? I think it is very important for you to know where your money is going. You may find that you are spending on items that arent as important as groceries. Priority items must be funded first. Cable TV, eating at restaurants, cell phone extras, wasted electricity and other non-essentials must be eliminated or kept to the bare minimum before it is assumed that you cant afford food and shelter. Excon is correct, savings are very important. Who knows what gasoline and other necessitiies will cost in the very near future and if you live in a cold climate like me--whats its going to cost for heating next winter?

twinkiedooter

List, list, list. Make a list at home and stick to it when you get to the grocery store. Nothing is more money wasting then buying stuff at a grocery store on impulse. I am guilty of this as well but if I take my son with me and we have a for real list that we agreed upon at home as the items we really need I tend to stick to the list and actually get out of Super WallyWorld with just what's on my list and maybe one item that snuck into the cart on me if I'm good.

bushg

Another thing I just found out yesterday...is my beloved grocery store is not the place to shop for shampoos, lotions,soap, household cleaners.....I'm in shock at the difference in the prices. I thought maybe it would be a difference by some change...I'm talking a dollar or more difference on those items.