10 Grocery Store Items Frugal People Never Buy

Budget-savvy shoppers know the secret to saving money at the grocery store is knowing which items to leave off the list.

There are things that frugal people never buy at the grocery store because they aren’t worth the money and can be purchased elsewhere for a lower price.

From markup-heavy beverages to household essentials with inflated price tags, steering clear of these items will save you money. What grocery store items do you always skip to save money?

1. Ice Cream Pints

Those premium pint-sized containers make ice cream an expensive treat when there are better options available. Buying larger containers or waiting for sales allows you to get more scoops for your dollar.

2. Pre-Marinated Meat

Marinated chicken, beef, or pork at the grocery store costs much more per pound. You’re essentially paying for a cheap marinade that you could easily make at home in minutes for much cheaper.

3. Laundry Detergent

Grocery stores typically mark up laundry detergent significantly compared to big box retailers and warehouse clubs. Experienced bargain hunters stock up during sales at discount stores or buy in bulk elsewhere to keep their clothes clean without paying inflated grocery store prices.

4. Bottled Water

Paying for bottled water means you’re spending much more than tap water for something that’s often just filtered municipal water. Investing in a high-quality water filter and reusable bottles quickly pays for itself, saving you money in the long run.

5. Name-Brand Canned Beans

Store-brand canned beans contain the same quality as pricier name brands but typically cost much less. Even better, dried beans are incredibly economical and can be prepared in large batches for the freezer.

6. Packaged Granola

Store-bought granola costs a fortune when you can make your own using oats, nuts, and honey you probably already have at home. Homemade versions taste fresher and allow you to control the ingredients, while being much more budget-friendly.

7. Vitamins

Grocery store vitamin prices are notoriously high compared to what you’d pay at warehouse stores or online retailers. Smart shoppers know to comparison shop for supplements since the same brands are widely available elsewhere for much less.

8. Juice Boxes

Juice boxes might seem convenient for lunch boxes, but you’re paying a premium for the individual portions. Frugal families know that buying large containers of juice and pouring it into reusable bottles is much cheaper.

9. Light Bulbs

Grocery stores charge high prices for basic light bulbs since they know customers will pay for convenience when one burns out. Places like Costco and Walmart offer the same bulbs for much less, so stock up during your next trip.

10. Name Brand Cookies

Frugal shoppers know paying full price for Oreos, Chips Ahoy, or other brand-name cookies just isn’t worth it. Store brands cost a fraction of the price, so it’s an easy swap that keeps a little extra cash in your pocket.