We’d all like to think that we’re smart shoppers, who never pay more than we have to for items we need. However, it’s bound to happen, even to the best of us. We’re going to overpay for some items.
Most of the items that we pay more than we need to for are grossly overpriced, simply because they are packaged for convenience. They are hidden among store shelves, just waiting for you to grab them.
So, what are these overpriced grocery items? Read on to find out…
1. Chopped Fruits and Vegetables
It probably comes as no surprise that you’re paying big bucks for the convenience of these overpriced grocery items. Before you reach for a package of pineapple slices or stir-fry vegetables, STOP! You’ll pay way more than you need too. Instead, grab the whole vegetables or fruits, and cut them up yourself.
2. Single Serve Items
Again, the convenience factors into the price of single serve items. While we’d hate to buy a full-sized item, only to have it go to waste, single serve items are grossly overpriced grocery items. This includes single serve bags of chips, slices of cake, and those little cups of fruit. If you want to shave even more money off of your food budget, nix these overpriced grocery items. Instead, buy larger portions, which are usually less per serving, and portion them out into single servings.
3. Bottled Water
The most abundant resource on earth, and we pay for it? Really? Bottles of water are convenient, but they’re one of the most overpriced grocery items. Unless you have contaminated water, bottled water is a completely unnecessary expense. If you want better tasting water, invest in a filter for your tap water. If convenience is what you’re after, invest in a few reusable bottles.
4. Deli Meat
We all love a good turkey sandwich, but if you’re buying lunch meat at your grocery store, you’re probably spending way more than you need to. To take the place of these overpriced grocery items, consider making your own meat. Buy a whole turkey or ham, cook it, and slice it thinly. Not only will you save a bundle of money, but it’ll taste better too!
5. “Ready to Cook” Meat and Poultry
I won’t go as far as to say pre-cut chicken breasts and steaks are overpriced grocery items, since very few people have the time, patience, and skill required to cut their own meat. I will, however, say that the “ready to cook” meats are overpriced. This includes items like marinated meats and pre-stuffed pork chops. It may take a few extra minutes to prepare these at home, but you’ll save a great deal of money in the long run.
Now, of course I’m not saying that you should never ever buy any of these items, even though they are overpriced. Sometimes the extra price of convenience is worth it. Most of the time, though, it isn’t, especially if you have a tight budget that’s already stretched to the max.
