With food prices on the rise, saving money at the checkout is becoming a key priority for many families. Simple steps can help cut back on those grocery bills.

1. Coupon First, Plan Second

Creating a meal plan is often everyone’s first step towards saving money. However, skimming through the coupons and sale ads first can help you determine what should be on your meal plan for the week. Build the meal plan based on the sales.

2. Price Match

Thanks to major retailers, price-matching foods saves time and gas because shoppers don’t have to run from store to store. Coupon apps such as Favado can search all area sale ads for your grocery items.

3. No Eating Out

Instead of eating out, create your favorite restaurant dish at home. Look on Pinterest for recipes from some of your favorite eateries, then get the whole family involved in transforming your kitchen into a restaurant.

4. Prepare

Don’t be tempted to swing through a drive-through. Taking a few hours once a week to prepare foods ahead of time (cooking chicken, slicing veggies) can save you time at night when practice runs late.