Build Up an Economically Responsible Stockpile

There are tons of different strategies to employ when it comes to saving on your groceries. Whether you clip coupons or buy wholesale, you likely have some regular tactics you practice on a weekly basis that help you save. Well, I have another skill I want to share that will come in handy as grocery prices creep upward. 

Stockpiling Responsibly

Right now, stockpiling a few packs of your staple items when they go on sale is a smart move. This means you're never paying full price for it if you buy a good amount when they're on sale. That being said, always practice stockpiling responsibly. With the economy the way it is, stockpile enough to keep yourself going for a while without taking an abundance of resources from others. Remember, you're not building a stockpile to keep you going for years, or to resell — you're stockpiling a modest amount to save money right now. 

What to Stockpile

The best items to stockpile during sales are anything that are staples and/or nonperishables. These should include health products, paper products, household maintenance items, beauty items, pantry items, canned goods, and frozen items. 

You can include some perishable items, but make sure you and your family will consume the amount you purchased before the expiration. 

Key Benefits

There are a few key benefits to consider when you decide what and how to stockpile. 

The most immediate benefit is that you save in the long term by buying more when the price is low so you don't have to buy when the price goes back up. Remember to pay close attention to the sales cycles at the stores you shop at so you can time your stockpile with the sales. 

Preparing meals also becomes easier, now that you have a fully stocked pantry at all times. No more scrounging on nights before grocery day — you have plenty of simple and quick options in your stockpile. 

It's also incredibly helpful during times of financial crisis or hardship. There are many reasons that building a small stockpile is a good idea — but make sure you're being mindful and conscientious of others when you stockpile. Don't buy out an entire store's stock — buy what you need to keep you going until the next sales cycle, but not much more unless you foresee a financial hardship coming your way.