Groceries can chew through your budget fast. If you're renting and trying to save money, trimming your weekly shop is one of the easiest wins.
And with a few smart tricks, you can spend less without giving up quality.
Here are 10 renter-approved hacks to help you save money at Woolies, Coles or wherever you might do your food shop.
Before heading to the shops, check the weekly catalogues online or through the app.
Woolies and Coles both release their specials early in the week, so you can plan meals around discounted items.
For example, if pasta, mince or broccoli are on special, build your dinner plans around them. You’ll save money just by being flexible.
If you're not using Everyday Rewards or Flybuys, you're leaving money on the table.
These loyalty programs often run personalised offers and boosters that can help you save money.
Some deals even offer 10% off your biggest monthly shop or reward credits you can use next time.
Scan your card every time, check the app before you shop, and activate those offers. They add up.
That “special” might not be so special once you look at the unit price. Always compare cost per 100 grams, litre or kilo.
Bigger packs aren’t always better value. Checking unit prices helps you spot the real bargains.
Coles and Woolies both offer solid homebrand ranges that cost less but deliver just as well.
Swap a few staples like rice, tinned tomatoes or snacks and see what you think.
Most shoppers can't taste the difference, but your bank account will notice.
Shopping in the afternoon or evening often means snagging markdowns.
Items like meat, fresh bread and bakery goods are frequently reduced to clear before closing.
If your schedule is flexible, you can score huge discounts this way.
Sticking to one store might be convenient, but hopping between Woolies, Coles and even Aldi can seriously slash your costs.
Apps like WiseList and Half Price show you what’s on sale where, so you don’t have to guess.
Even if you just grab pantry staples at the cheapest spot, you’re ahead.
When non-perishables like canned goods, cleaning products or toilet paper go on special, consider stocking up.
That way, you’re not stuck paying full price when you run out. Just make sure you have the space to store it all.
Frugl, Half Price and WiseList are goldmines for deal hunters.
They show you what’s on sale at different supermarkets, so you can plan your shop around the best offers.
You can even build your list right in the app.
Top Tip: Paylab gives you up to 15% back at 140+ retailers, including Coles, Woolies, Bunnings and Uber Eats. Shop in-store or online, save money, then transfer them straight into your RentPay account to help pay rent.
Impulse buys are budget killers.
Going in without a list or shopping while hungry can lead to extra snacks, drinks or fancy products you don’t need.
Stick to your list and avoid the temptation aisles near the checkout. You'll miss out on a sweet treat or two, but you'll save money.
Woolies and Coles both use bright colours, “Was/Now” labels and “Down Down” slogans to grab your attention.
But just because it looks discounted doesn’t mean it’s the best deal. Again, check the unit price and compare brands before deciding.
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