When I entered the supermarket yesterday I expected to struggle, as usual, to keep within my $200 (equivalent to $135 US) grocery budget. Imagine my surprise when, with the help of my trusty pocket calculator, the total came to a mere $161.27 (about $105 US).
The calculator technique really works!
Instead of roaming up and down the aisles in order, crossing items off my shopping list and checking for specials, I shopped only for the most important items on my list, adding them up on the calculator. Only when I was sure that I could stay under my limit did I add any extras.
This method of shopping did take longer than usual, but it would be worth continuing with as it forces me to be a more disciplined shopper.
Thanks to a grocery receipt that itemised my purchases into categories, I can tell you how my $161.27 was divided.
- General Groceries, including toiletries and cleaning products: $54.78
- Dairy, including 15 litres milk, $31.70
- Frozen: $1.96 (1 kg frozen peas on special)
- Fresh meat incl. chicken: $27.07
- Fruit and Vegetables: $31.86
- Deli: $4.49
- Bakery: $9.41 (3 loaves bread + 2 packets crumpets on sale)
The Verdict: Grocery shopping with a calculator in hand can definitely save money, but it may take a little longer than usual.
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