Shopping for groceries is one of the things my family looks forward to every weekend. We usually go grocery shopping at one of those really big supermarkets that have everything from sugar to televisions to sofa sets.

Aside from being able to go out for a change, the kids get to experience firsthand how it feels to manage a household. Sure, they’re just pre-school aged. But grown-up things like grocery shopping can fascinate them. Besides, they enjoy looking at the produce, especially the seafoods section (the squid, fishies and shrimp) and the fruits section.

Grocery shopping is also one of those times when your ability to budget is tested. You can come up with a list and yet go overboard with your budget because of impulse buying, or buying stuff you don’t really need.

Lifespy has these tips on how to save on grocery bills.

• Shop alone (without kids).
• Shop when full.
• Familiarize yourself with your grocery store’s layout (expensive items are found eye-level).
• Do not let those big-size packages fool you.
• Stay away from the prepared food section.
• Try out those store brands and generic products.
• Buy meat in bulk and freeze. Be sure to separate them in individual portions first.
• Learn to prepare food from scratch.

Being stingy can sometimes take out the enjoyment in shopping. But if you’re out to save money, then it’s good to keep these tips in mind.