A Sam's or Costco is perfect for a full morning of shopping. Get it all done at once. This helps you stick to your inventory and budget because it eliminates unnecessary trips to the grocery store. Tuesday's are the absolute best day for shopping if you want to avoid crowds and get individual attention from the sales staff. I quickly discovered this to be true while working in retail.) The one trip shopping days will also help you save on gas, and you can even fill up your tank at Sam's.

8. Don't buy individually packaged foods

Don't guy grated cheese, or individually packaged cheese slices. These cost more. Grate your own cheese and stay away from the cute convenient packaging, especially for snack foods that appeal to children. Also avoid vending machines at work. If you want a soft drink, take your own. You can also buy those in bulk at a warehouse store.

9. Don't buy as many snacks

Fix your own, because this is where food companies really come in for the kill. Many of today's snacks are full of salt, sugar, and high fat. They are bad for you anyway, but cutting down on them may help you cut down on your medical bills later. Substitute muffins, fruits, and homemade cookies instead if you have to have snacks.

10.Eat less meat

Needless to say, meat can be very expensive, especially if you buy meat with big bones. Stick to the lean meats and watch for the sales. Also you can save by buying frozen chicken in bulk.

Dried beans or legumes can be substituted for meat and you can fix tasty recipes using them that your family will love.

11. Learn when your grocery store brings out the best specials

Every store is different, but they all have the same problem of how to sell day old bakery items and bread. Also, ask for ripened produce that will be cheaper. Make friends of the staff and learn when they first mark everything down and get to the head of the line.

Even if food inflation seems out of control there are many ways you can still stop up huge holes in your budget, eat well, and keep more of your hard-earned money.

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