Saving on groceries: 15 practical tips for 2026

Groceries get more expensive every year. Between 2022 and 2026, prices in Dutch supermarkets rose by more than 25%. At the same time, many people continue to stick to the same supermarket, the same brands, and the same habits — even though there are opportunities to save everywhere.

In this article, we share 15 practical tips you can apply right away. No vague advice, no complicated spreadsheets. Just concrete steps that work.

Plan before you go to the store

The biggest savings don't happen in the store itself, but in what you do before you leave.

1. Always make a shopping list

People who shop with a list save an average of 23% per month compared to impulse buyers. A list keeps you focused and prevents you from buying products you already have at home.

2. Check your cupboards and fridge first

Before you make a list, see what you already have. Nothing is more wasteful than having three boxes of pasta in the cupboard and buying a fourth because you forgot.

3. Plan your meals for the week

By planning ahead, you know exactly what you need. No more random impulse purchases for a single dish. A weekly plan of five dinners + breakfast + lunch saves an average of 40 to 60 euros per month.

4. Check the deals before you leave

Nine out of ten Dutch people don't know what deals are running at their favorite supermarket this week. With Mandje, you can see all weekly deals from 9 chains in one app — before you walk out the door.

Smart shopping in the supermarket

Once you're in the store, there are also plenty of ways to save money.

5. Always compare the price per kilo or liter

A small tin of tomatoes might seem cheaper than a large one — until you look at the price per kilo. Many supermarkets place small packages prominently because the profit margin is higher. Always look at the bottom of the price tag for the price per kilo or liter.

6. Don't go grocery shopping hungry

A classic, but proven advice. Hungry shoppers buy an average of 17% more than people who shop right after a meal. Always eat something before you go.

7. Avoid eye level

Supermarkets place the most expensive brands at eye level and the cheapest options at the bottom or top shelves. Make a conscious effort to look at the lowest and highest shelves — you'll often find perfectly fine alternatives there for half the price.

8. Buy store brands when the quality is the same

For many basic products (sugar, flour, milk, basic vegetables), there is no difference between a store brand and a name brand. For other products, there is. Try it out and stick to the store brands you like just as much.

9. Watch out for the "weighing trick"

Pre-packaged fruit and vegetables are often up to 40% more expensive than loose versions you have to weigh yourself. A 500-gram bag of mushrooms can be more expensive than 600 grams of loose mushrooms — and the loose ones are often fresher too.

Using deals and promotions wisely

Deals only work in your favor if you use them smartly.

10. Not every "deal" is a real discount

Supermarkets regularly mark products as being on "deal" while the price remains identical to the regular price from a few weeks earlier. With price history, you can check if a promotion actually saves you money. Mandje tracks 650,000 price points over time.

11. Stock up wisely on long-life products when they are discounted

Laundry detergent, canned food, pasta, and coffee last for months. If these are on sale with a discount of 30% or more, stock up. You'll pay the discounted price instead of the standard price for three months.

12. Shop at multiple supermarkets if you have the time

No single supermarket has the absolute lowest price on all products. By doing your weekly shopping at two different supermarkets, you save an average of 15% to 20% per month. This is especially easy to combine for people with a car or a good bicycle.

Manage your inventory

What you do at home also determines how much you actually need.

13. Prevent food waste

The average Dutch household throws away 150 euros worth of food every month. Store products in the right place, plan meals around ingredients that spoil quickly, and use leftovers for tomorrow's lunch.

14. Freeze what you don't use right away

Bread, meat, sauces, and even some vegetables freeze perfectly. Buy them on discount and freeze them right away — that way, you'll still be eating at the promotional price weeks later.

15. Keep track of your pantry

A quick glance in your pantry prevents double purchases. Some people keep a list on the fridge, others use an app. Whichever you choose, it saves you both money and food waste.

Finally

Saving money on groceries isn't an art form, but a matter of discipline and a little preparation. Start with three or four of the tips above and gradually build from there.

The biggest impact often comes from the simplest things: a good list, knowing where the deals are, and not shopping on an empty stomach.

Want to make things even easier? Download Mandje for free — all deals from 9 supermarkets in one app, complete with price comparison and alerts for promotions on your favorite products.