Dear Reader ,

Last weekend, I went shopping—and wow.

I’m buying the same things I always do, but the total at the till? Higher.

The cost of living crisis is still very much here. And if you’ve noticed that your grocery bill is still increasing, you’re not imagining it.

So, to help you stick to your food budget and stop spending more than you really need to, here are some tips to spend only what you need to.

Step 1: Start with a solid meal plan

Before you even write your list, take a few minutes to look ahead:
– What meals are you cooking this week?
– Who’s eating at home (and who’s not)?
– What can you use from the fridge, freezer or pantry before it expires?

When you plan around what you already have, you’re not just saving money—you’re wasting less food too.

Step 2: Write a purposeful grocery list

Now that you know what you’re eating, list only the missing ingredients.

Add your household basics (cleaning products, toiletries)—but that’s it.

You’re not shopping to “see what looks good.” You’re shopping with a goal.

Step 3: Stick to the plan like your budget depends on it—because it does

Impulse buys are sneaky. That £60 shop? It becomes £90 before you know it.
If it’s not on the list, it stays on the shelf.

And another great tip: Write your list in the order you walk through the store.
Less backtracking means less temptation—and a quicker, cheaper shop.

Step 4: Pay with cash

One thing that has really helped me to stay within my food budget is to take cash.

I always tell the cashier that I have X amount of money and I can't go over that.

I place the essential items at the front of the conveyor belt and the treats (sweets, chocolate, sodas etc at the back). If I don't have enough cash, I can't buy the treats.

I know it sounds rough but it really does help me stay within budget and cut out those impulse purchases!

If you’ve been feeling the pinch at the shops, you’re not alone.
Try these tips and let me know how it goes.

And tell me this—what’s your best grocery-saving hack?
Hit reply. I love hearing what’s working for you too.

Here’s to making your money go further,

P.S. Know someone who’s trying to rein in their food costs? Forward them this email—they’ll thank you later.