Let’s be real — grocery prices these days can make any mom’s head spin. You walk into the supermarket with ₱5000 and somehow walk out wondering, “Bakit parang snacks lang ‘to?” 😂 But don’t worry, momsh. With a little planning (and discipline), ₱5000 can go a long way using a budget grocery list — enough to feed a family of four for an entire week!
Here’s how I stretch our grocery budget without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
1. Plan Your Meals Before Shopping.
Never go to the grocery without a list! Plan 7 dinners and repeat some breakfast/lunch combos. This avoids impulse buys and food waste.
2. Buy In-Season Fruits and Veggies.
If it’s in season, it’s cheaper and fresher. Right now, pechay, eggplant, and bananas are budget heroes!
3. Go for Store Brands.
Don’t be afraid to try supermarket brands. Most taste the same as branded ones, but cost less. I swear by some local brands for pasta, coffee, and milk.
4. Stick to Basics.
Rice, eggs, chicken, vegetables, and canned tuna are your foundation. From these, you can create 10+ meals like ginisang ampalaya, adobong sitaw, and egg stir-fry.
5. Cook Big Batches.
Cook one ulam for two days! For example, Monday’s adobo becomes Tuesday’s adobo flakes. Or make sinigang for lunch, then turn it into sinigang fried rice for dinner.
6. Skip Junk and Sugary Drinks.
Those chips and soft drinks add up fast. Replace them with popcorn, banana cue, or homemade iced tea. Healthier and cheaper!
7. Buy Meat in Bulk and Portion It.
Instead of buying meat daily, buy in bulk then divide per meal. Label with dates and freeze — instant savings and convenience.
8. Make Grocery Apps Work for You.
Try Pricebook or ShopBack to compare prices or earn cashback. I’ve saved hundreds just by checking promo days.
9. Use Loyalty Points.
SM, Robinsons, and Puregold points add up faster than you think. Redeem them during lean weeks for essentials like rice or milk.
10. Have a “No-Spend” Day.
Once a week, skip ordering or shopping and get creative with leftovers. Kids actually love it when we call it “Surprise Dinner Night.”
Remember, budgeting isn’t about limiting joy — it’s about spending smarter. With planning, creativity, and a few hacks, you can make ₱5000 feel like ₱10,000. Kaya natin ‘to, momsh!
