7. Try Generic and Store Brands

We’ve all been there—standing in the grocery aisle, torn between the brand-name cereal and the store version that’s two dollars cheaper. Nine times out of ten, the store brand is just as good (and sometimes made in the same factory).

Try store-brand versions of:

Pantry staples (pasta, sugar, spices)

Cleaning supplies

Paper goods

Over-the-counter medicine

You can always switch back if you don’t like it, but give it a try. The savings add up fast.