In today's busy world many people do not take the time to make some preparations before going to the supermarket. To them writing lists and clipping coupons is to time consuming. so they end up grocery shopping only when they run out of a food item they need. Once they are in the store though they often make impulse food purchases of items they do not need or items that are not particularly healthy such as candy or cookies.
To avoid the pitfalls of unplanned rushed trips for groceries you should keep a list on the refrigerator of items that you are running out of or items that you may want to purchase for a recipe you would like to try. This will help you be prepared before you go shopping for groceries. You should also try and schedule a certain day a week for going to the supermarket. It is best to schedule this time coincide with just finishing a meal as you are less likely to impulse shop when you have a full stomach .
With your list already made out you should then look at the store flyer and your local newspaper to see if they have special offers or coupons for any of the items on your list. If you find a really good deal on an item that is not on your list this would be the time to stock up on that item if you know you will use it. Doing these things will save you time and money when going to the supermarket.