October is officially “Tipid Season” — the perfect time to start tightening our grocery budget before the holidays hit. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably said “Magtitipid na talaga ako this week!” … more than once. 😂
The good news? You can save money on groceries without sacrificing your favorite meals or family treats. Here are 7 tried-and-tested grocery hacks to save money that help you get more value for every peso — and even make grocery day a little fun!
1. Make a List (and Stick to It!)
It sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. Before you head out, plan your meals for the week and list only what you need.
Pro tip: Take a photo of your pantry or fridge before shopping — so you don’t accidentally buy what you already have.
🛍️ Try using a magnetic meal planner board or shopping list app like Notion or AnyList to stay organized.
🥦 2. Go for Whole Ingredients
Instead of buying pre-cut fruits or marinated meats, buy them whole. They’re fresher, cheaper, and you can use the leftovers for soups or side dishes.
For example: buy a whole chicken — roast it, then use the bones for tinola or broth.
💡 A vacuum sealer or freezer-safe containers can help keep those leftovers fresher for longer.
🧄 3. Love Your Leftovers
Speaking of leftovers — don’t toss them! Turn them into something new.
Leftover adobo? Shred it and make adobo flakes. Extra rice? Fried rice with eggs and veggies.
🌱 Store leftovers neatly using reusable glass containers — they look cute and eco-friendly too!
🥕 4. Buy Seasonal and Local Produce
Fruits and veggies in season are cheaper and taste better. In October, look for kamote, kangkong, sigarilyas, pechay, and saba — all budget-friendly and nutritious!
Tip: Try visiting weekend markets for fresher deals.
🛒 Bring your own eco-bag or market tote — saves money and saves the planet.
💳 5. Take Advantage of Points and Promos
Whether it’s Mercury Drug Suki Points, SM Advantage, or Landers SuperCard, those points add up!
Also, check store apps or online grocery platforms — sometimes they give cashback or delivery discounts you don’t see in-store.
💡 Use budget tracking apps like Spendee or Wallet to monitor your grocery spending in real time.
🥫 6. Stock Up on Pantry Essentials During Sale
Non-perishables like pasta, canned tuna, and condiments have long shelf lives — buy them when they’re on sale!
October is a great month to start stocking up for the holidays while prices are still reasonable.
🧂 Use airtight jars or labeling sets to keep your pantry organized and Instagram-ready.
🧃 7. Plan “Zero-Waste Meals”
Challenge yourself to cook using what’s left in the fridge before buying new ingredients. It’s sustainable and wallet-friendly!
Think: fried rice with leftover veggies, soup using veggie scraps, or smoothies from overripe bananas.
♻️ Try using a compost bin for your scraps — it’s good for the earth and for your future herb garden!
Mommy Peach’s Note:
Being smart with groceries isn’t just about saving money — it’s about being mindful of what we buy, cook, and eat.
Whether you’re feeding a family of five or just yourself, these grocery hacks to save money help you live better, waste less, and still enjoy every delicious bite.
Now, let’s make every peso count this October. 💰✨
