Originally published June 29, 2008

1. If possible, shop for two weeks of groceries at one time, a habit that really lessens impulse shopping. Sit down before you go to the store to plan your menus and make a specific list.

2. Buy milk that doesn’t need to be refrigerated for the second week. Even though it is more expensive it may save you money by not returning to the store during the second week.

3. Always take your list of “needed” items with you, and stick to it.

4. Never go food shopping when you’re hungry.

5. Stay away from already-prepared foods — including deli and bakery items. Avoid shopping the outer aisles where these products are featured. Frozen entrees can be costly.

6. Clip coupons and use them whenever possible. Buy a newspaper on Sundays. Savings add up, especially if you shop at double coupon stores.

7. Leave your children at home when you shop. If you must take them along, make sure they are well fed and have some favorite toys to keep them occupied.

8. Purchase store brands. Check the labels: are you paying more for fancy packaging or for a brand name?

9. The most expensive items are usually at eye level. The best bargains are closer to the floor.

10. Shop when the stores are quiet so you can compare prices. Some grocery stores put sale items out early in the morning, others do so in the evening. Watch for sale patterns. Sometimes you’ll find day-old meat marked down between 50 cents and a few dollars.

11. Beware of displayed items. Always check the store aisle where this item is normally stored. Often you will find other brands that are cheaper.

12. Compare the prices per ounce found on the price tag attached to the shelf. The economy size isn’t always cheaper.

13. Buy meat when it’s on sale and store it in the freezer.

14. Search for snack cakes, bread, and chips at thrift stores.

15. Check out the so-called “dollar stores.” They have some good bargains on related grocery items.

16. Don’t buy toiletries at the grocery store or drug store. Go to one of the large discount stores. Bath soap, shampoo, toothpaste, shaving cream and other such items can be 20 percent to 50 percent less. Ditto for household supplies such as laundry detergent and cleaning supplies.

17. Join a food co-op; a great way to meet new people who are also trying to save.

Source: Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Atlanta