Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget
Grocery shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning, you can eat well, save money and make the most of your time. Here are some easy tips to help you shop smarter and stretch your food budget.Ìý
ÌýÌýPlan your meals aheadÌý
Before heading to the store, make a weekly meal plan. Include breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Planning helps you avoid impulse buys and food waste.Ìý
Pro tip: Use leftovers! Turn last night’s dinner into lunch or remix ingredients into a new dish—like turning leftover veggies into soup or stir-fry.Ìý
ÌýÌýUse coupons and store dealsÌý
Check your grocery store’s app or website for weekly deals and digital coupons. Match your meal plan to what’s on sale to save even more.Ìý
ÌýÌýCompare prices by unitÌý
Don’t just look at the sticker price—check the price per unit (like per ounce or per pound). Bigger packages often cost less per unit and save money over time.Ìý
ÌýÌýTry plant-based optionsÌý
Meat can be pricey. Try adding plant-based proteins like beans, lentils or tofu to your meals. They’re affordable, filling and packed with nutrients.Ìý
ÌýÌýUpgrade simple mealsÌý
Make budget meals better with easy add-ins. Toss veggies and protein into instant noodles, or top cereal with frozen berries or banana slices for extra flavor and nutrition.Ìý
ÌýÌýShare with roommatesÌý
Split the cost of kitchen staples like milk, butter or coffee. You can also take turns cooking dinner and share meals to save time and money—just make sure everyone’s on board with the plan.Ìý
ÌýÌýSwap for cheaper itemsÌý
Here are some smart swaps to cut costs:Ìý
- Buy whole foods: A block of cheese is usually cheaper than shredded.Ìý
- Go generic: Store brands often match name brands in quality but cost less.Ìý
- Choose seasonal produce: In-season fruits and veggies are fresher and cheaper.Ìý
- Pick frozen produce: Frozen fruits and veggies are budget-friendly and last longer.Ìý
- Buy in bulk: Stock up on dry goods like rice, pasta or oats.Ìý
- Use canned foods: Canned beans, tomatoes and veggies are versatile and affordable—just watch for added sodium.Ìý
With these strategies, you’ll be able to make your grocery budget go further while still enjoying tasty, nutritious meals throughout the semester.Ìý
ÌýÌýFind support
If you're looking for ways to stretch your food budget or need help accessing nutritious meals, CU Boulder and our local community offer several free and low-cost resources.Ìý
The Basic Needs Center connects students with essential support, including access to nutritious food.Ìý
- Buff Pantry: Students can pick up fresh produce, pantry staples, frozen items and personal care products.Ìý
- Mobile Food Pantries: Free pop-up pantries are available for CU students, faculty, staff and Boulder/Broomfield community members.Ìý
- Ralphie’s Cooking Basics: Learn easy, budget-friendly recipes at free cooking classes.Ìý
Need help with healthy eating? Students can book a free appointment with a registered dietitian on campus. Get personalized advice on topics like meal planning, dietary needs and more.Ìý
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Community Food Share is a local food bank serving Boulder and Broomfield counties. They offer a free on-site food pantry, emergency food assistance and mobile food pantries.Ìý