I need to keep a constant stock of items to avoid extra trips into my favorite discount grocery store in the next town. Most pantry items in my hometown store are just too expensive to get (sometimes a three dollar difference!) After reviewing my grocery receipts and pantry for a month, I devised a shopping list on my computer that lists everything I use in my home, broken down into general categories like Produce/Fresh; Frozen; Pantry; Office; Toiletries/Household.
I saved it on MS Word, and before I go shopping I do an inventory, then open my list on my computer, "delete" what I do not need to buy, and print out the list. When I close the program, I choose NOT to save the changes, so I always have the complete list. Stuff that needs to be purchased at a specialty store is italicized, and if I have coupons, I highlight the item and keep them with my list, so I don't forget them. The list is very easy to read, and I have extra room to write down notes or unexpected items (like car parts!) It takes a little time to set it up, but the time and gas I save from forgetting an item is very valuable!
By Kelly
This page contains the following solutions.
To save time and trips to the grocery store, I have a master list of everything I keep on hand. I keep it folded and stuck in a coffee cup in the kitchen cabinet.
To keep an eye on your budget and create an instant shopping list, keep your grocery receipt from your previous trip. Put a tick mark beside each item you need, and list any additional items on the back.
Everyone probably knows that it is helpful to put a shopping list on fridge so that you can make note of what you have run out of. Another good idea is to put a list on the inside of your cupboard or panty where you store dry goods.
We all know sticking to a list is the key to saving money. I live 11 miles from town, so I keep what I call a 'running list' all the time.
To keep from over buying at the store I always make a list the night before buying groceries. My husband and I do it together, we make sure all staples are covered and the meat and the veggies. We then check all the non food items and write them down.
Keep a list of what you usually buy at the store and print it on the computer. You can make several copies at a time. When you get ready to go to the grocery store just glance through and check off what you need.
I use a system that I learned while I was a restaurant manager and by the nature of my job "had" to control food cost.
Tape a piece of paper on the inside of the cupboard. Divide it into spaces for lists: cleaning supplies, canned goods, bathroom, other.
I have one of those clear see- through magnetic frames; the kind that pulls apart half of the way as you insert whatever picture you might like. Well instead of a picture, I put a blank piece of lined notebook paper in it.