How to Save Money at the Supermarket
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Did you know the average UK family of four spends around £130 a week on groceries? That’s over £6,700 a year just to keep the fridge stocked! If your goal is to reduce your supermarket bill, these tips will help you shop smarter, save money, and maybe even have a bit of fun along the way. Let’s see how…!
1. Loyalty Cards Are Your New Best Friend
Supermarket loyalty cards aren’t just handy—they’re a game-changer. Not only do they unlock exclusive discounts, but you’ll also rack up points that can lead to big savings.
Tesco Clubcard
With a Tesco Clubcard you can exchange your Clubcard points for 2x the value with selected retailers known as Reward Partners.
You’ll find a selection of offers including discounts to use against Disney+ membership, days out, RAC membership, meals in restaurants plus discounts with travel, hotels and holiday companies too.
Clubcard Plus might be your new secret weapon for saving money. For just £7.99 a month, with a 1-month free trial, you’ll unlock some serious perks:
10% off two in-store shops every month: Simply scan one of the discount coupons in your Tesco app to save on the two shops of your choice. (So as long as you spend over £79.99 over 2 shops each month, you will be in profit)
10% off selected Tesco brands every time you shop: This includes F&F clothing, Paperchase, Tesco Pet, Fred & Flo, Go Play, Go Create, Go Cook, and Fox & Ivy. Perfect if you’re picking up baby essentials, pet supplies, or even a cheeky treat for yourself.
And if you’re a Tesco Mobile customer, the perks don’t stop there—you’ll get double data every month on pay monthly contracts.
Sainsbury’s Nectar Card
Sainsburys nectar card lets you earn points on groceries and redeem them during special events for extra bang for your buck.
Once you've collected enough points, you can redeem them towards discounts on future shopping at Sainsbury's or other partner stores like Argos, Esso, and British Airways
Asda Rewards
Shop as usual and earn “Asda Pounds” on selected products called ‘Star Products’ or ‘Missions’ (like buying certain ranges). Your cash builds up in a rewards pot, and you can use it for future shops. Perfect for saving towards Christmas!
You can receive money-off coupons within the Asda Rewards app too
Asda also has a Christmas Savings Card that allows you to save throughout the year, little and often, or in one lump sum.
Then on Bonus Day, usually early November, you’ll receive a cashback bonus depending on the value of your Christmas Saver card. If you have £280 on your card you can receive a £15 bonus. This is the same as receiving more than 5% as a bonus – not bad!
💡 Quick Tip: Save your loyalty points all year and cash them in for Christmas treats—it’s like giving your budget an early gift!
2. Plan, Plan, Plan!
Meal planning might sound dull, but it saves you a fortune. Spend a few minutes each week planning meals and writing a shopping list based on what you’ll need.
Then (and here’s the key) stick to it. No sneaky chocolate bars, no extra crisps.
Pro Tip: Try planning meals with overlapping ingredients. For example, a roast chicken can stretch into sandwiches, soups, or even a stir-fry.
3. Don’t Shop Hungry—It’s Science!
Ever walked into a supermarket on an empty stomach and walked out with four packs of doughnuts and no dinner?
You’re not alone.
Research found that shopping hungry leads to buying more high-calorie, unnecessary items. So, have a snack before you shop—it’s your secret weapon against impulse buys.
4. Shop Your Cupboards First
How many times have you come home to realise you’ve bought another tin of baked beans to add to the five already in your cupboard?
Take five minutes before shopping to check what’s already in your kitchen.
💡 Top Tip: Keep a running list of what’s running low so you’re not doubling up on groceries.
5. Shop Online and Use Cashback Websites
Online grocery shopping is a great way to save money on groceries and avoid in-store temptations. Plus, cashback websites like TopCashback and Quidco often offer deals like "get £5 back on your first shop with Tesco or Asda." Plus, if you use our link for Topcashback, you can bag an extra £10 when earn your first £10 cashback!
Always check for promo codes before you check out. You’ll be amazed at how often you can snag an extra discount! Check out what Deals & Discounts we have available for families just like your here
6. Compare Prices
When that “Buy 2 for £3” offer catches your eye, take a closer look. Check the price per unit or weight—it’s usually listed on the shelf label.
Sometimes bigger packs are better value than multibuy offers. Don’t let fancy deals & labels fool you!
7. Own Brands = Big Savings
Supermarket own-brand products are often just as good as the big names but cost a fraction of the price. (somethimes they’re even made in the same factory with different packaging on!!!)
Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might find a new favourite!
8. Timing is Everything
Late afternoon and evening are golden hours in store for bargain hunters. That’s when supermarkets usually mark down fresh produce, meat, and bakery items nearing their sell-by dates.
💡 Money-Saving Hack: Freeze these markdown meats to use later—they’re just as tasty!
9. Bulk Buy Wisely
Bulk buying can save you money on essentials like pasta, rice, or cleaning supplies.
But here’s the catch—only do it if you have the space to store it and know you’ll use it all before it goes off.
10. Delivery Savers
If online shopping is your preferred way to grocery shop then you could save money by purchasing a delivery saver plan or similar.
Check how much you usually spend on each delivery slot and work out the difference between that and the delivery saver membership cost to see if you could save.
Also, you could try opting for click and collect to keep the cost down.
BONUS: Year-Round Christmas Savings
If Christmas is always a financial headache, take the pressure off by saving throughout the year with schemes like:
Asda’s Christmas Savings Card: Add a little money every time you shop, and you’ll get a bonus when you cash it in before Christmas.
Morrisons Christmas Saver: Save your More Points all year and convert them into vouchers to spend on your festive shop.
Tesco Clubcard Rewards: Save those vouchers for Christmas to cover your turkey, pudding, or even some cheeky prosecco.
The Bottom Line
Supermarket shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet.
By meal planning, taking advantage of loyalty cards, and being a savvy shopper, you can save money without sacrificing the things you love.
Which tip will you try first?
Let me know in the comments—and don’t forget to share your own hacks with the community!
Happy saving! 💸