You may think you’re getting good deals when grocery shopping because you use coupons or snag items on sale. But unless you follow these tips, you’re probably overpaying at a time when every penny counts.

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Make Your Own Lunch Snack Packs

Your kids probably love Lunchables for their flavor. And you probably love them because they’re quick and easy. One thing Lunchables aren’t is affordable, as they charge you a premium for that convenience. To make your own so your kids still get what they desire, do this:

• Go to a dollar store and let your kids pick out plastic containers that have sections in them.
• Pick the ingredients you want, such as crackers, cheese, deli meat, and something sweet.
• Make your own lunch snack packs daily to save money.

Buy Dry Beans Instead of Canned Ones

Canned beans are more expensive than dry ones, and they’re also packed with more sodium that’s detrimental to your health. Buy them dry to cut your costs, and soak them in water when you’re ready to cook.

Buy a Water Filter Instead of Bottles

If you’re buying bottled water, you’re paying 3,000 percent more than tap per gallon. And since we need a lot of water every day, that means you’re throwing money out the window.

By investing in a filter, you can cut your water costs drastically. And since some water bottles have harmful BPA in them, you also get a health boost from not putting such chemicals into your body.

Portion Your Own Snacks

Do you buy snacks that come in single portions because they’re convenient or keep you from eating the whole bag? If so, try to buy a bigger bag to save cash. Then, portion out your own snacks with reusable bags, so you get that intended effect without overpaying.

Buy Frozen Produce

Out-of-season produce is more expensive since its supply is limited. You could get in-season produce to cut your costs, or even better, buy it frozen because it’s the cheapest.

Buy Whole Fruits and Veggies

Speaking of produce, you’ll save a ton if you avoid buying it pre-cut and get it whole instead. Chop or cut it yourself, and you can use those savings elsewhere.

Make Your Own Marinara

Store-bought marinara sauce is loaded with preservatives and costs more than a can of crushed tomatoes. Buy the tomatoes and find a marinara recipe that you can make to enjoy fresher flavor at a lower cost.

Shred Cheese Yourself

Yes, shredded cheese is easy to use, but you pay for that convenience. Buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself instead, and you can enjoy savings without the fillers that come with the shredded variety.

Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies

Grocery stores often carry overpriced cleaning supplies. Make your own using online recipes, and you can keep your house clean at a lower cost without using so many harsh chemicals.