Welcome to the ultimate guide to shopping at Kroger! Whether you’re filling up your cart or just picking up the essentials, knowing where to find the best deals—and which pitfalls to avoid—can save you time and money. Let’s dive into the top steals and pitfalls at Kroger, presented in a savvy shopper’s alternating sequence to keep you on your toes!
Best Deals
Kroger Brand Basics
Opt for Kroger’s own products to get quality at a lower price, especially pantry staples.
Meat Department Markdowns
Keep an eye on the meat section for markdowns. Shopping late in the day or looking for items near their sell-by date can often lead to great deals on quality meats.
Worst Deal
Pre-Prepared Meals
While convenient, pre-prepared meals at Kroger can be pricey. Often, you can make a similar meal at home for a fraction of the cost, providing both healthier ingredients and better value.
Best Deals
Digital Coupon Bonanza
Utilize Kroger’s digital coupons to snag substantial savings. These can be loaded onto your Kroger card and used at checkout, often stacking with existing sales.
Produce Price Cuts
Fresh produce can be found at great prices, especially when buying seasonal items. These discounts are perfect for stocking up on healthy options.
Worst Deal
Name Brand Impulse Items
Items placed strategically to catch your eye might not be the best deals. These are often priced higher than similar products found in regular aisles.
Best Deals
Bulk Buy Opportunities Buying in bulk can lead to great savings, especially on non-perishable items or products you use regularly.
Friday Freebie Promotions
Every Friday, Kroger offers a different product completely free to digital coupon users. It’s a fantastic way to try new products without spending a dime.
Worst Deal
Specialty Packaged Snacks
These snacks might be tempting but they come with a high markup. Better value can often be found in larger packages or generic brands.
Best Deals
Seasonal Clearance Sales Post-holiday or end-of-season sales offer massive discounts on merchandise that can be stored for next year or enjoyed now at a low cost.
Rotisserie Chicken Deals
Grab a rotisserie chicken for a quick and cost-effective meal solution. They are often discounted in the evenings, making for a perfect last-minute dinner.
Worst Deal
Impulse Checkout Items
Those last-minute grabs at the checkout—like candy and magazines—are not only unhealthy but also carry a higher price tag. Resist the urge!
Best Deals
Wine and Alcohol Discounts Regular promotions and discounts on wine and spirits can offer good savings, particularly during special sale events.
Loyalty Program Benefits
The Kroger loyalty program offers exclusive discounts, personalized deals, and accrual of fuel points that translate into discounts at the pump.
Worst Deal
Specialty Cheese Section While tempting, specialty cheeses at Kroger can be expensive. Often, similar products can be found at better prices at specialty stores.
Best Deals
Pharmacy Prescription Savings
The Kroger pharmacy offers competitive pricing on generic medications, especially for loyalty members, making it a smart stop for health needs.
International Food Section Deals
Explore the world through food with special deals in the international section. These items are not only priced well but also offer a variety of uncommon ingredients.
Worst Deal
High-End Cosmetics
The markup on cosmetics at grocery stores can be significant. You’re likely to find better deals and a wider selection at beauty-specific retailers.
Best Deals
Bakery Markdown Specials
Day-old bread and other bakery items are discounted almost daily. They’re perfect for immediate consumption or can be frozen for later use.
Store Brand Organic Options
Kroger’s organic options are often priced below competitors’ organics, making them a smart choice for the health-conscious shopper.
Weekly Meal Deal Promotions
These promotions offer everything you need for a meal at a bundled discount, providing convenience and savings rolled into one.
Final Thoughts
Shopping smart at Kroger means knowing where to look for the best deals and what traps to avoid. Armed with this knowledge, you’re set to make the most of your grocery budget while enjoying the quality and variety that Kroger offers. Happy shopping!
