#1 – Make a list of what you need – Sticking to a list will help you avoid impulse buys and other unnecessary expenses.

#2 – Go through your fridge and pantry – Look to see if you have anything on your list.  You’ll be surprised how often we buy things we already have.  Going through these spaces will also clear away some space for you to easily put away the food when you get home.

#3 – Estimate what you think you should spend – write down your magic numbers next to your purchases so that you can check that you’re paying the right amount for the stuff you plan to buy.

#4 – Put a letter next to each item so you’ll know where to buy it – I put a “Hey” next to the items I get at Hiper Dudu, a “Shin” next to the stuff I get at Shefa Shook and a “B” next to the stuff I will get at the bakery.  If you’re shopping at a few stores, this can allow you to break down your list so it will be easier to follow.  Getting in and out of stores quickly is the key to not buying unnecessary items.  It also will buy you the time to shop at a few stores and save yourself some money by taking advantage of the different savings of the different stores.

#5 – Eat! – We buy more when we are hungrier.  Suddenly all the pretty pictures on the packaging look much more attractive.  Stores actually take advantage of large open spaces to get you to walk more and build up an appetite and finally at the end…you’ll smell fresh bread and overspend.  Don’t let this happen.

Also, don’t forget to bring either a ₪ 5 coin or a key-ring so that you can take a shopping cart.  It’s very annoying to make it there and have to spend 10 minutes breaking change in order to use a cart.