8 Ways to Save Money on Groceries in India

Grocery shopping makes up a large part of one's monthly expenses and with the cost of living rising everywhere, it’s time to reevaluate how we make these purchases.

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Whether you’re an online shopper or the type to walk over to your local kirana store, in this article, we have tips to help reduce your expenses without having to make many sacrifices.

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By implementing these smart grocery saving tips, you can significantly reduce your grocery expenses and infuse a daily saving habit in your lifestyle.

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Here are 8 essential tips on how to save money on groceries in India: 

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1) Make a List

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We consider making shopping lists a true art that you too can master with some planning, budgeting, and discipline.

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Before stepping foot into a grocery store, we recommend you make a list of all the essentials you need for the week/month and ensure you stay within the lines.

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This helps with saving money at the grocery store and prevents impulse buys.

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Of course, you don’t need to be too hard on yourself. Grocery shopping should still be a fun part of your routine, so you can set aside a small budget for some special treats. 

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2) Meal Prep for the Week

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Meal prepping is probably a word you’ve heard a lot in the recent past and we definitely consider it one of the best grocery shopping hacks to save money.

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This cost-effective strategy helps you save your time as well and is ideal for busy bees that find it hard to cook during the week.

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By spending a few hours on weekends to prepare meals for the upcoming week, you'll avoid unnecessary purchases and even reduce food wastage that comes with cooking and eating individual meals.

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Meal prepping also ensures you have nutritious homemade food readily available throughout the week, reducing the temptation to order takeout or dine out.

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Additionally, through meal prepping, you can learn how to save money on groceries in India further by buying in bulk and planning your meals ahead. 

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3) Save More with Grocery Saving Apps

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Grocery saving apps like CashKaro are an absolute boon when it comes to saving on your monthly bills.

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With cashback guaranteed with every purchase, these types of apps have converted tons of people to the world of shopping for groceries online.

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Other delivery apps like Instamart, Dunzo and Big Basket also offer discounts, coupons, and cashback on various products, making them the ideal place to do your shopping. 

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4) The 60/30/10 Grocery Rule

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The 60/30/10 rule is an easy budgeting rule that has gained popularity in recent years and it is one of our favorite grocery shopping hacks to save money.

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Not only does this hack help with saving money at the grocery store; but it also helps you eat healthy and more balanced.

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With this rule, you need to spend 60% of your budget on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (rice, bread, pulses, millets, etc.), 30% on protein like meats, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts and seeds and the remaining 10% on indulgent foods like snacks, chocolates, and processed foods.

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This rule ensures you strike a healthy balance with your meals while spending the majority of your budget on cheaper and more nutritious foods that are good for you. 

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5) The Advantage of Loyalty Programs

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Enrolling in loyalty programs is one of the best hacks on how to save the most money on groceries.

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Most programs provide you with exclusive benefits and discounts, as well as coupons that help you slash prices even further.

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Besides loyalty programs, some apps also provide membership programs for a small fee which you can use to avail discounts and free delivery.

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Before enrolling in these programs, it is important to evaluate if they will actually benefit you and maximize your savings. 

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6) Shop Local + Seasonal

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You may have heard the words ‘shop local’ on social media but did you know this is one of the best grocery-saving ideas?

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Not only do you save money on your fruits and vegetables, you can also support local farmers and businesses by shopping at local markets.

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Not only do you get fresh produce and unique products, but you often find better prices compared to supermarkets.

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Additionally, buying seasonal fruits and vegetables saves you money as they are usually more affordable and abundant during their peak season.

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7) Don’t Shop on an Empty Stomach 

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Ever wondered “How can I reduce my grocery bill in India?” Then the answer is to not shop hungry.

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While this might sound like a strange rule to follow, it is one of the best grocery saving tips, trust us!

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When you shop hungry, you tend to overestimate how much you will eat during the week, making you buy more than necessary.

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Hungry shoppers also tend to gravitate towards more processed, convenient foods and snacks that tend to fall on the unhealthy side.

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8) Keep An Eye Out for Sales

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If you ask any hardcore budgeter how to save money on groceries in India, they’ll tell you to keep an eye out for sales.

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Stay informed about ongoing sales, discounts, and promotional offers at your preferred grocery stores and keep track of store flyers, newsletters, and online platforms to spot the best deals.

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By planning your shopping around these sales, you can stock up on essential items and items you’ve had your eyes on for a long time at discounted prices.

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Takeaway

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‍From planning your meals and utilizing loyalty programs to shopping local and being mindful of sales, these strategies teach you how to save money on groceries in India without compromising on quality.

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Start incorporating these tips into your grocery shopping routine and enjoy the financial benefits of smart spending.

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Remember, small changes in your shopping habits can yield significant savings over time. With conscious planning and informed decisions, you'll be on your way to a healthier financial future while still enjoying the meals and groceries you love. So what is your way to save money on groceries?

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