It’s a sad but true fact of life: Groceries are one of the biggest monthly expenses for South African households.
For a lot of people – especially pensioners and retirees – the constant rise of food prices and living costs is making it incredibly tough to keep household budgets afloat. Finding some practical ways to stretch your grocery spend without having to compromise on quality or the basics is more crucial than ever.
The good news is you don’t have to drastically change your life to start saving some cash. A few small, steady habits can make a real difference to your grocery spend over time, especially if you combine them with the benefits that come with your bsmart membership.
Here are practical tips to help you get more value from every grocery trip.
1. Plan your grocery budget around staples
The staples you find in most homes are the backbone of your meal routine – think rice, maize meal, pasta, long life milk, canned food, frozen veg and of course bread. These tried and trusted choices save you from splurging on “fancy” ingredients that you might only use once or not even finish in time.
If you’ve got the room in your freezer, buying bread in bulk and freezing it can be a real money saver. That way you always have bread on hand, without having to pay full price at the last minute – whether it’s a quick dash to the shop or a pricey detour to the convenience store.
By prioritising the essentials in your budget, you trim down the impulse buys and make sure your cash is going to food you can actually use.
2. Buy in larger quantities where it makes sense
Buying small packs of non-perishables can add up becoming more expensive in the long run. So, it’s worth choosing bigger packs when you can, especially when you are using your bsmart card to get the Better Price at participating retailers.
It’s not about filling your cupboards up with loads of stuff, it’s about being sensible and paying less for the staples you use every month.
And the same principle works well with freezer-friendly staples if you have the space:
- Bread – When it’s on special, buy a few extra loaves and chuck them in the freezer.
- Frozen vegetables – These are not only healthy, but they’re also affordable and easy to use.
- Meat packs – Buying in bulk can often work out cheaper per kilogram. Just divide the meat up into smaller portions before freezing it.
- Prepared meals or soups – Cooking in bulk, freezing portions and saving yourself the effort later is a great way to save money and time.
Bulk buying and using your freezer are simple ways to make your grocery budget go further while keeping your kitchen stocked.
3. Shop with a focused grocery list
Walking into a store without a plan is one of the quickest ways to overspend. A focused list helps you:
- Stick to your budget
- Avoid impulse purchases
- Reduce food waste
Before you shop, check your cupboards and fridge. Write down only what you truly need – it’s a small step that makes a big difference.
4. Compare unit prices, not shelf prices
Just because a bigger pack is on offer, doesn’t mean it’s the best value. You need to look at the price per kilogram or litre to really see if you are getting a good deal.
For example, cheese has become really expensive, and that’s when a special offer on a smaller block might look tempting, but comparing the price per kilogram could show you that the larger block is actually more value for money.
A little tip that’s worth remembering: If you buy a bigger block of cheese, you can grate it, split it into smaller bags and freeze it. That way you save money, reduce waste and always have cheese ready to use when you need it.
5. Mix and match branded and store alternatives
The brand you always go for can often be more expensive than a store alternative, even though the quality is similar.
Being open to comparing and mixing branded and store products (where it makes sense) is a simple way to reduce your grocery spend while still buying what works for your household.
6. Use grocery discounts for everyday essentials
Savings from paying less for the things you buy every month are the most reliable. And with bsmart, you get an extra advantage: You secure the absolute Better Price.
Even if a retailer is running a special offer, and you’re getting cash-back or points through their loyalty programme, using your bsmart card as well means you still pay the lowest possible price while earning extra rewards to make the most of your shop.
Over time, those consistent savings really make a difference to your household budget, without you having to change where or what you shop.
7. Limit small “top-up” grocery shops
We are all guilty of it… Those quick “just one or two items” trips, that then often end up costing more. With convenience spending the full‑price items easily sneak in.
Planning one main grocery shop each month – and sticking to it – will help to keep costs under control.
Less reacting, more intention.
8. Review and adjust your grocery spend regularly
Stretching your grocery budget is something you need to do regularly. Set aside a bit of time each month to review what you bought and see:
- Which items you used up completely
- Where you wasted money
- Which discounts made the biggest difference
It might seem like an extra chore, but it’s really just a good habit to get into – one that will help with your overall financial planning and save you money on groceries each month.
Many people feel like they’ve reached the limit of how much they can cut back or save cash. But small, practical steps like these can restore a sense of control. Instead of feeling worn down by rising prices, you’re actively making decisions that protect your household budget in ways that are realistic and sustainable.
Making your grocery budget work harder
With inflation on a constant rise, it’s become a necessity for a lot of people – including pensioners in South Africa – to be careful with their money when it comes to food. Cutting back on groceries does not have be about finding ways to skimp and scrape – it can just be about making better choices and consistently getting the best deal on the things you really need.
Small changes applied daily can really make a difference to your household budget in the long run. And with bsmart it’s even easier, because the savings are already built into your everyday shopping, giving you that all-important peace of mind that you’re doing what is needed to get the Better Price.