5 Tips on How to Save Money on Groceries in the Philippines
With inflation in the Philippines reaching 8.7%, many Filipinos are feeling the pinch when it comes to their day-to-day expenses, including grocery shopping. In this article, we’ll share five tips on how to save money on groceries in the Philippines, which can help Filipinos make the most of their hard-earned money.
5 Tips on Saving Money on Groceries in the Philippines
These strategies are all practical and effective ways to save money on groceries and stretch the budget during these challenging times.
So here are the 5 tips on how to save money on groceries in the Philippines.
Plan your meals and make a list
Planning your meals for the week and making a list of the items you need can help you avoid buying unnecessary items and reduce food waste. Take a look at what you already have in your pantry, fridge, and freezer, and plan your meals around those ingredients. Consider planning meals that can be made in bulk and eaten as leftovers throughout the week. Making a list can also help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending.
Look for sales and discounts
Check flyers, online ads, and social media for sales and discounts before you go grocery shopping. Take advantage of special deals like buy-one-get-one-free offers and discounts on items you regularly use. However, make sure to only buy what you need and avoid buying items just because they’re on sale. Be wary of sales that may actually be more expensive than buying the regular-priced item.
Buy in-season produce
Buying produce that is in-season can be less expensive and fresher than buying out-of-season produce that has been shipped from elsewhere. Look for local produce at your grocery store or nearby markets, as they can often be less expensive than imported produce. Consider buying extra in-season produce and freezing it for later use.
Choose generic brands
Generic brands are often less expensive than name brands and can be just as good in quality. Compare prices between generic and name-brand items to see where you can save. In some cases, the difference in quality may be negligible, while in other cases, the name brand may be worth the extra cost. Experiment with different generic brands to find the ones that work best for you.
Avoid shopping when you’re hungry
Shopping when you’re hungry can lead to impulse purchases and buying more than you need. Eat a snack or meal before you go grocery shopping to help you stick to your list and avoid overspending. In addition, consider bringing a shopping list with you and sticking to it. This can help you avoid buying unnecessary items and ensure that you stay within your budget.
Conclusion:
Saving money on groceries in the Philippines is an important consideration for many Filipinos, especially given the current inflation rate. By implementing the tips shared in this article, such as planning meals, buying in-season produce, and looking for sales and discounts, readers can make their grocery shopping more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or variety. These small but practical changes can add up to big savings over time and help Filipinos make the most of their hard-earned money.
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Federico is an electronics engineer, financial blogger, insurance agent, and a certified investment solicitor. A multi-awarded financial advisor with clients ranging from lawyers, doctors, engineers, accountants, business owners, company directors, and OFWs to minimum wage earners had sought advice from him in achieving lifetime financial freedom.