How to Save Money on Groceries This Holiday Season Without Sacrificing That Turkey

 

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but also a time of high expenses. Food inflation has made many traditional holiday foods more expensive this year, such as turkey, potatoes and carrots. According to a report by Dalhousie University, a typical holiday dinner for four to six people will cost an average of $104.85 in Canada this year.

But don’t worry, there are ways to enjoy a festive feast without breaking the bank. Here are some tips from financial experts on how to save money on groceries this holiday season:

• Plan ahead and stick to your list. Before you go to the grocery store, make a meal plan for the next week or two, and write down the ingredients you need. This will help you avoid impulse buys and unnecessary items. You can also use grocery delivery apps or curbside pickup to prevent browsing the store and being tempted by sales or promotions.

• Use coupons, loyalty programs and price-match guarantees. Look for coupons online or in flyers, and use them to get discounts on items you need. You can also sign up for loyalty programs at your favourite grocery stores and earn points or cash back on your purchases. Some stores also offer price-match guarantees, which means they will match the lower price of a competitor if you show them proof. This can help you save money and time by shopping at one place.

• Buy in bulk and freeze. If you have a large freezer, you can buy some items in bulk and freeze them for later use. This can help you save money per unit and reduce food waste. For example, you can buy a whole turkey and cut it into parts, or buy frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones. Just make sure you label and date your frozen items, and use them within a reasonable time frame.

• Shop local and seasonal. Buying local and seasonal produce can help you save money and support your community. Local and seasonal foods are usually cheaper, fresher and more nutritious than imported or out-of-season ones. You can also visit farmers’ markets or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get access to local and organic foods at a lower price.

By following these tips, you can save money on groceries this holiday season without sacrificing that turkey. You can also enjoy a more sustainable and healthy holiday meal with your loved ones. Happy holidays!