5 Secret Tricks to Save Money on Monthly Groceries Without Sacrificing Quality of Life

Here are 5 secret tricks to save money on monthly shopping without sacrificing your quality of life, the essence of which is smart planning and discipline :

1. Make a Shopping List and Stick to It Disciplinedly:

   • Secret Trick: Don't just jot down notes, plan your weekly/monthly menu in advance. This way, your shopping list will focus only on the ingredients you really need, avoiding overbuying that could end up going to waste (wasting food is a huge waste).

   • Maintaining Quality of Life: Ensuring all basic needs are met and reducing food waste.

2. Set a Realistic Shopping Budget and Bring Enough Cash:

   • Secret Trick: Set aside your monthly shopping budget in a special envelope/account and try to pay in cash when shopping offline . Paying in cash makes you more aware of your spending and makes it psychologically harder to make impulsive purchases outside your budget.

   • Maintained Quality of Life: Finances are more controlled, reducing stress due to unexpected expenses.

3. Compare Prices and Take Advantage of Wholesale Buying on Durable Goods:

   • Secret Trick: For items that are certain to run out and last a long time (like rice, oil, detergent, tissue), buy them in bulk from agents, wholesalers, or when there's a big sale. For fresh items (vegetables/meat), compare prices between supermarkets and traditional markets/local shops.

   • Maintained Quality of Life: Get the same or better quality (fresh) at a much cheaper price per unit and no need to go shopping frequently.

4. Minimize Snacking/Eating Out by Cooking at Home:

   • Secret Trick: Cut back on snacking or eating out at restaurants. Try cooking your favorite dishes at home. Besides saving money, you can choose healthier, more quality ingredients.

   • Maintained Quality of Life: Healthier food, better nutritional quality, and perhaps quality time with family in the kitchen.

5. Choose Quality Generic Products or Local Brands:

   • Secret Trick: Don't always stick to well-known brands. For certain products, like toiletries, household cleaners, or certain groceries, try choosing generic or local brands that offer comparable quality but are much more affordable.

   • Maintained Quality of Life: Still get the function and quality you need without having to pay expensive "brand prices."