How to Save Money on Groceries in South Africa in 2024

Let’s be honest, grocery shopping can feel like a never-ending drain on your wallet. It’s one of those necessary evils, right? But what if I told you that with a little bit of planning, you could actually save a decent amount of money each month? In 2024, with food prices on the rise, it's more important than ever to shop smart. I’m sharing some tried-and-true tips that have helped me keep our family’s grocery budget in check, without sacrificing the quality of our meals. Let's help spread your Rands a bit further.

1. Create a grocery budget

I know, I know—budgeting can feel like such a chore. But trust me on this one, it’s a game-changer. It's the reason why I started Plan My Meals. You can start by taking a look at what you’re currently spending on groceries. You might be surprised at how those little extras add up. Once you’ve got a clear picture, set a budget that makes sense for your family. It’s not about pinching every penny; it’s about making sure your money goes where it counts. And if you find yourself going over budget, don’t beat yourself up—just adjust and move forward.

2. Plan your meals in advance

This one’s a lifesaver. Not only does meal planning save you time (because who wants to think about what to make for dinner at 5 pm every day?), but it also saves you money. When you plan your meals, you can base them on what’s on sale or in season, which means fewer impulse buys and less waste. Plus, it just feels good to know you’ve got a plan in place for the week. Start with the basics—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—and see how much more organised you feel.

3. Make a shopping list and stick to it!

Oh, the humble shopping list. It’s so easy to overlook, but it’s one of the simplest ways to keep your spending in check. Once you’ve planned your meals, jot down everything you need and stick to it like glue. It’s amazing how much you can save by avoiding those “oh, this looks good” moments in the store. And a little trick—organize your list by sections (produce, dairy, etc.) to make your shopping trip quicker and less stressful. If that feels like a pain, that's okay too, just head on over to the planmymeals site and let me take care of that with our weekly menu, grocery list and recipes.

4. Shop for generic brands

Let’s talk about generic brands. They’re often just as good as the name brands that you grew up with but without the fancy packaging and higher price tag. I used to be skeptical, but once I started trying them, I was pleasantly surprised. Whether it’s pasta, canned goods, or even cleaning products, going generic can save you a lot over time. And honestly, in a blind taste test, could you really tell the difference? Most of our South African stores have their own generic brands, they are worth a try.

5. Buy in bulk (but with restraint)

Bulk buying can be a great way to save money, but it’s not for everything. Stick to non-perishable items or things you know your family will use up before they go bad. Think rice, pasta, and those ever-important snacks. Just make sure you’re not buying something in bulk that will end up collecting dust in the back of your pantry. It’s all about being smart with your purchases and knowing what works for your household.

6. Take advantage of loyalty programs

If you’re not using loyalty programs, you’re leaving money on the table. Our South African retail stores like Pick n Pay, Spar,  Woolworths, Clicks and Checkers all offer fantastic rewards programs that can really add up.  It might seem like small savings, but over time, they really do make a difference. Plus, who doesn’t love a good deal?

7. Shop seasonally and locally

There’s something wonderful about eating with the seasons. Not only does it mean your food is fresher and tastier, but it’s also usually cheaper. When fruits and veggies are in season, they’re often on sale, which means more savings for you. Plus, shopping locally at markets can often get you better prices than the big supermarkets. Supporting local farmers and saving money? That’s a win-win in my book. And not to mention, we are so lucky in South Africa to have an amazing range of seasonal products.

8. Avoid shopping when hungry!

We’ve all been there—rushing through the store on an empty stomach, and suddenly everything looks delicious. Before you know it, your cart is filled with things you didn’t plan to buy. The fix? Never shop when you’re hungry. Have a snack before you go or keep something in your bag to nibble on. It’s a simple trick, but it can save you from those impulse buys that really add up.

9. Compare prices across different stores

I’m all about convenience, but sometimes it pays (literally) to compare prices across different stores. You’d be surprised at how much prices can vary, even for the same products. If you have the time, check out a few stores online or flip through their flyers to see who’s got the best deals. And don’t forget about price matching—some stores will honour their competitor’s prices, which means less running around for you. You can also use the Lessy App to compare prices between the stores in your area.

10. Consider meat-free meals

Meat is often one of the biggest expenses in our grocery budget. By incorporating more plant-based meals into your week, you can save a good chunk of change. You don’t have to go full vegetarian—just a few meat-free dinners here and there can make a big difference. And who knows, you might even discover some new family favourites along the way. The Plan My Meals dinner menu includes two meat-free meals a week and has been getting rave reviews!

11. Make use of online shopping apps

Another great way to stick to your budget is by using online shopping apps. Apps like Checkers Sixty60 and Woolies Dash make it easy to see the total cost of your groceries as you add items to your basket, helping you avoid any surprises at checkout. Plus, shopping online can reduce impulse purchases—those tempting snacks you grab while wandering the aisles. By keeping an eye on your total as you go, you’re more likely to stay within your budget and make more mindful choices about what goes into your cart.

12. Sounds like too much work?

I get it—this all sounds great in theory, but who has the time to do it all? That’s where Plan My Meals comes in. You can outsource the mental fatigue to me. I’ve taken the guesswork out of meal planning, so you don’t have to even think about it. With our service, you’ll get a 7-day dinner plan that’s budget-friendly (max R1,500 a week), a shopping list that’s easy to follow with prices and recommended store, as well as recipes to create all those amazing dinners at home. It’s like having a personal assistant for your kitchen, making sure you’re saving both time and money without all the stress.

It’s about what matters to YOU!

At the end of the day, saving money on groceries isn’t about always getting the cheapest products—it’s about focusing on what’s valuable to you and cutting out the unnecessary expenses that add up quickly. Just like with a diet, allowing yourself a “cheat purchase” every now and then can help you stay on track in the long run. The goal is to make smart choices that work for you and your family. With these tips—and the help of Plan My Meals—you can keep your grocery budget under control without sacrificing the things that matter most.