Grocery store sticker shock is real in the aisles of Wyoming stores. Even though prices for things like gas have fallen over the last year, that effect hasn’t yet affected groceries. 70% of Wyomingites are spending more on groceries and having to adjust their budgets to get the most out of their dollars at the store.

So, how are you managing your grocery budget? Are you buying less, or maybe buying fewer name-brand items? For me, one of the ways I’ve saved is having a freezer full of elk. Using Nature’s Meat Department has kept me from having to purchase meat from the store.

I happened across 14 ways to help you save while grocery shopping and wanted to share them with everyone, in hopes of helping you save a buck at the store. One thing I’ve noticed on this list is that using technology works to your advantage. Apps and websites can offer discounts and coupons to help you save.

• Use lower-cost ingredients in your recipes – egg substitutes like corn starch, chia seeds, flaxseed, and applesauce can save money.
• Don’t let leftovers go to waste – Leftover cooked vegetables, rice, beans, or meat can be ingredients in a soup or stew, which can be frozen for future meals.
• Commit to using the food you already have – My wife and I have been doing this for a few weeks. We’ve vowed to use everything in the freezer and the cabinets before going to the grocery store. Other than a couple of items, this has been a money-saving game-changer.
• Download the app – It’s safe to say most stores have one, and you get money-saving opportunities when you have it. Many times, you’re able to see and compare prices, learn about sales, and receive coupons.
• Choose your shopping time wisely – Many stores will discount many items the closer that closing time approaches. Deli meats, baked goods, produce, and prepared meals may be marked down.
• Search for discounted gift cards – There are sites where you can buy them at a discount. Card Cash, Gift Card Granny, and Gift Card Outlets allow people to buy or sell unused gift cards.
• Search high and low when shopping – Stores will place the items that are more profitable or well-known brands at eye level, to make sure they’re the first items you see. Many times, you’ll find lower-cost brands on the upper or lower shelves.
• Meal plan around sale items – Using the store’s weekly sale ads ahead of time can help you know what’s available at a lower price, and you can plan your meals around those items.
• Ask about discounts – Many times, a store will have unannounced discount plans for older customers, first responders, or military personnel. It never hurts to ask if there’s a money-saving opportunity.
• Use the buddy system – If you’re shopping by yourself, you’re more likely to buy items you don’t really need. With a shopping buddy by your side, you’ll probably stay in your budget and stick to your list.
• Stay away from samples – Freebies are meant to encourage you to buy those items, and trick you into feeling hungry. You know that you’re not supposed to shop on an empty stomach.
• Add low-cost grocery stores to your routine – Most people feel loyal to a certain store, but it’s okay to step out of your comfort zone once in a while.
• Keep an eye on receipts – An error on your receipt can cost you money you didn’t need to spend. An item was rang up twice, a coupon was not applied, or some other simple error occurred at your expense.
• Search for websites and apps to help you save – Sites like Martie, Misfits Market, and Imperfect Foods offer discounted food options delivered to your home.

I hope some of these options work for you, and help you save money.

🍎 10 of the Cutest Little Grocery Stores in Wyoming

Gallery Credit: Kolby Fedore, Townsquare Media

LOOK: Here’s how much grocery shopping now costs in the U.S.

How does Montana compare when it comes to cost of groceries? Do we pay more, or less? Data compiled by Zippia takes a look at the average monthly grocery bill per person in all 50 states. States are listed from most expensive to least expensive and are rounded up to the nearest dollar.

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant