How to Save Money on Groceries and Essentials in the UK 🇬🇧
Something happened to me recently at the shops that perfectly sums up grocery shopping in the UK.
After work one evening, I stopped by Aldi to “pick up a few things.” You know that phrase — it’s always the beginning of a financial trap! I only needed milk, bread, and a few fruits. But by the time I got to the self-checkout, my small basket had magically transformed into a trolley of dreams.
As I started scanning, reality hit me: Wait, how did I end up with all these things? I had clearly forgotten that “just popping in” to a UK supermarket can easily cost you half your weekly budget.
So there I was, standing at the self-checkout, politely calling over the store assistant to remove a few items. “Sorry, I think I’ll drop these,” I said, pretending to be calm while mentally calculating the damage. We both chuckled because — let’s be honest — we’ve all been there.
That moment reminded me how important it is to shop smart, especially now that the cost of living seems to be climbing faster than the temperature in British summer. So, let me share a few practical tips that have genuinely helped me (and my wallet) survive grocery shopping in the UK.
- Shop at Budget-Friendly Stores
If you haven’t yet joined the Aldi or Lidl club, it’s time! These stores are like treasure chests for smart shoppers. You can find great-quality essentials — milk, veggies, even cleaning items — for much less than in bigger supermarkets.
It might feel odd switching from your favourite brands at first, but your bank account will thank you. And honestly, Aldi’s own baked beans taste just as good as the expensive ones. - Don’t Be Shy to Try Store Brands
One of the first lessons I learned here: packaging doesn’t always mean quality. Many supermarket own brands are made by the same suppliers as the big names — they just skip the fancy labels.
Try swapping one branded item each week for the store version. I did that with cereal, and nobody at home noticed (except my wallet, which was smiling). - Hunt for Yellow Stickers
If you’ve ever walked past a shelf with those yellow “reduced” stickers and ignored it, you’ve been missing out. Supermarkets usually mark down items close to expiry in the late afternoon or evening.
You can grab perfectly good bread, fruits, or meat for half the price — and if you have freezer space, you’re golden. Reduced-section shopping feels a bit like treasure hunting, except you come home with dinner instead of gold. - Use Loyalty Cards and Cashback Apps
Sign up for supermarket loyalty schemes like Tesco Clubcard, Nectar, or Morrisons More. You’ll be surprised how much you save over time.
For extra savings, try apps like Shopmium, TopCashback, or CheckoutSmart — they reward you for uploading receipts. Small savings add up, and before you know it, you’ve saved enough for a weekend treat. - Plan Your Meals (and Stick to the List!)
I used to wander into the store with no plan, which is basically an invitation to overspend. Now, I plan my meals for the week and write down only what I need.
There’s even a website called Trolley.co.uk where you can compare prices across supermarkets — perfect for bargain hunters like us. - Buy in Bulk — but Be Strategic
Bulk buying makes sense for things that last — rice, pasta, and cleaning products — especially from Costco or local ethnic stores.
But resist the urge to buy 10 packs of croissants on offer if you can’t eat them before they expire. Wasted food = wasted money. - Visit Local Markets and Ethnic Stores
For my fellow immigrants, this one’s a gem. African, Asian, and Middle Eastern shops often sell fresh produce, spices, and ethnic foods at better prices. Plus, it’s a comforting taste of home without the price shock. Find out when local markets in your locality trade. There you can save a lot of money on fruits and veggies that come straight from the farm. - Cook in Batches
Cooking in bulk isn’t just for big families — it saves time, energy, and money. Make your soups, stews, or jollof rice in larger portions and freeze them. On those long workdays when you’re too tired to cook, you’ll thank yourself. - Never Shop When Hungry or Tired
This one’s funny but true. You’ll end up buying snacks, chocolate, and anything that “looks nice.” Eat first, shop later — your stomach and wallet will be happier.
Saving money on groceries in the UK isn’t about going without; it’s about being intentional. Plan your shopping, stay flexible with brands, and don’t be afraid to drop a few items at checkout if it helps balance the budget.
These little changes can make a big difference over time — and next time you go to Aldi “just for milk,” maybe you’ll actually leave with just milk. (Or at least, fewer surprises at the till!)😆😅lol.
How do you make some savings from your grocery shopping? Please share so we all can learn together!
How’s your day going? TGIF💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽
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