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First gas, now groceries.

The Consumer Price Index for groceries rose more in April than in any month since mid-2022 — evidence that this year’s spike in oil and fuel prices is spreading through the food supply chain.

In fact, as fallout from the Middle East war drives up the cost of transporting and producing goods, the economy has hit an inflection point: The overall inflation rate is rising faster than average wages for the first time in three years.

So what?

The latest inflation numbers reflect what most of us feel at the register: Paychecks simply aren't stretching as far as they used to. And even before the recent spike, 86% of Americans surveyed by LendingTree were changing how they shopped for groceries.

For anyone who needs some fresh inspo, here are some of our favorite strategies for shielding your budget at the supermarket:

Plug in.

Between digital coupons, free brand loyalty programs, and shopping apps such as Flipp and Fetch, you can often shave meaningful amounts off your bill. And if you have more than one cash-back credit card, make sure to use the one with the highest rate on groceries to maximize every dollar spent.

Prep.

Spending five minutes to take an inventory of your pantry and fridge and make a shopping list can go a long way. For one, you won’t buy perishables you don’t need but forgot you had. And a list can keep you focused and less tempted by impulse buys. Another useful tip: Eat before you head to the market so you’re not motivated by hunger.

Explore buying online.

Speaking of avoiding impulse buys, buying your groceries online could help you stick to your list. The downside is there may be markups or delivery fees — and you won’t get to pick out your own fruits and vegetables — but the tradeoffs could be worthwhile if your priority is sticking to a set budget. It’s an easy way to see your total bill ahead of time.

Ditch the convenience tax.

Kid-friendly snack packs, boxed rice, or premade taco seasoning are convenient, but now may not be the time to pay the extra. Plus, choosing your own ingredients can be healthier.

Use unit prices to compare.

It can be hard to compare prices when package sizes are different. Looking at the unit price (often listed next to the regular price on the shelf pricing label) levels the playing field by showing you the price per pound, ounce, etc. You can also use a unit price calculator like this.

Try (some) store brands.

Sometimes store brands just aren’t the same, granted. But sometimes they are. A Consumer Reports blind taste test of dozens of store vs. name brands revealed that the discount versions of staples like yogurt, peanuts, coffee, and popcorn can be just as good (or better.)

Tread carefully with bulk buys.

Buying larger quantities is a popular money-saving strategy, but only if you use everything you buy. A 2025 LendingTree survey found that 38% of people who bought in bulk often or occasionally threw some of their purchases away. Before you buy in bulk, ask yourself how certain you are it won’t go to waste. And make sure the bulk price is actually cheaper.

Related Reading

Most and Least Expensive Supermarkets (Consumer Reports)

14 Ways to Outsmart Rising Grocery Prices (AARP)

'Cage-free' Eggs May Not Mean What You Think—Here’s How To Avoid Overpaying (Consumer Affairs)

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