5 Tips for Saving Big on Your Next Aldi Shopping Trip

You're not alone if you're feeling the impact of rising prices on your wallet. No matter where you shop, a trip to the grocery store is likely much more expensive than a few years ago. But you can make strategic moves to avoid overspending while refilling your fridge with food.

One way to do that is by shopping at discount grocers like Aldi. You don't need to be intimidated if you're new to shopping at this retailer. You'll feel more comfortable the more you do it. To maximize your savings while shopping at Aldi, consider following these tips.

1. Don't ignore the sales flyer

Like other grocery stores, Aldi has a weekly flyer outlining its sales. You'll likely receive a paper flyer in your mailbox if you have an Aldi nearby, but you can also view the weekly sales flyer on Aldi's website or mobile app. Doing this while making your weekly shopping list is an excellent strategy. Extra discounts can result in a less costly grocery bill.

2. Keep competitor prices in mind as you shop

Aldi is known for having low prices -- but some items may be cheaper elsewhere. Keeping product pricing for other retailers in your area in mind as you shop can be beneficial. Knowing whether to buy an item at Aldi or another nearby retailer can result in significant savings.

I've recently gotten back into the habit of shopping at Aldi, but I also get some of my essentials at Target. I've been shocked to learn that many equivalent alternatives are cheaper at Target. I'm learning what items are best to buy at each retailer to avoid overspending.

3. Avoid the name-brand products

For the most part, Aldi stocks its shelves with private-label brands exclusive to the retailer. But you'll find some name-brand items, too. If you want the best deal possible, avoid the name-brand essentials. You'll likely find that the private-label offerings are just as good as the name-brand ones, and you'll waste less money.

4. Limit the seasonal (and impulse) buys

Like any store, Aldi sells seasonal treats that will get your attention. But these items are typically priced higher than other items in the store because they're new and in demand. Adding impulse buys like this to your cart could result in you overspending. Consider keeping these buys to a minimum if you want to avoid a costly credit card bill.

5. Pay attention to best-by dates

I've come home with Aldi essentials a few times only to find the best-by dates were days away. I've since learned to check the best-by date before adding an item to my cart. This is especially true with bread items. Sometimes, I must pick a loaf on one of the lower bread racks because the soon-to-expire dates are up top. Paying attention to best-by dates while shopping at Aldi can help you save money by avoiding food waste.

Remember these tips the next time you shop at Aldi so you can keep more money in your bank account. For additional ways to save money, check out our personal finance resources.