Using a grocery list when shopping can help you save time and money at the supermarket. Homestead.org recommends keeping a running grocery list so you'll know exactly what you need to purchase each time you visit the store. The basic grocery list provided here is a terrific starting point for developing a list of your own.
Grocery List Template
To access the printable template, simply click the image below. It will open as a PDF document that you can edit to meet your specific shopping needs. You can save and print it for re-use, as well as update it at any time. If you need help with accessing the document, use this guide to printables.
Customizing Your Grocery List
Once the template is is open, save it to your computer using the corresponding icon on the toolbar or by selecting "Save As" from the "File" menu. Once it has been saved, you can edit it to reflect the way you shop.
- If there are items included on the list that you don't purchase, you can remove them. Either click in the highlighted text area to delete the text and replace it with another item or click the "minus" sign at the end of the row to remove it completely.
- If you need to add items to any of the categories, simply click the "plus" sign at the end of the row above where you would like to place the new item. A blank cell will appear that you can fill in with any text you want.
- You may want to consider adding grocery shopping reminders to your customized grocery list, such as a note to yourself to bring grocery coupons or reusable shopping bags to the store with you.
Save frequently as you are editing to make sure you don't lose your work. Once all the changes have been made, be sure to save again. Print the document before going to the store, either by clicking the printer icon on the toolbar or selecting "Print" from the "File" menu.
Tips for Shopping With Your List
This list should be comprehensive, including all the basic items you need to have on hand to consider your pantry and refrigerator fully stocked with the supplies you need to prepare meals and snacks. As your shopping habits change, update the list stored on your computer to keep it current. This will make it easy for you just to print the list and head out the door when it's time to go to the supermarket.
Other helpful tips to keep in mind include:
- Print a new list prior to each visit to the store, marking off in advance any items that you don't need to purchase on this visit.
- Write in any special purchase items that aren't on the master list, such as things you are buying for special occasions or to try new recipes.
- Put the list on a clipboard to make it easy to keep up with and to check items off as you progress through the store.
- Use the list as a shopping guide, being sure to purchase everything you need while you are in the store to avoid unnecessary return visits.
- Avoiding deviating too much from the list as doing so can put a big dent in your budget.
- Make notations on the list of adjustments that you may need to make to the master list file when you return home.
- Edit the file with any necessary changes as soon as you finish putting away your groceries so it will be ready for your next trip to the store.
Simplified Supermarket Shopping
Getting organized with a thorough basic shopping list that has been customized to your needs can take some of the stress out of supermarket visits and make it easier manage your grocery budget. With this easy-to-use free template, you can create a personalized shopping list that you can use time and time again, making changes any time you see fit.
