The ultimate guide to your first food shop

Posted 9 months ago

Grocery shopping 101

Welcome to adulting! You've moved out, started university and now it's time to do your first food shop. 

Here's your #1 guide to make sure your fridge is stocked, your wallet isn't empty and your meals are tasty. 

Top tips before you walk down the aisles

  • Remember your bags: If you don't have any, buy a few bags on your first food shop (food for life bags are big and durable) that you can reuse throughout the year for your shopping to save some extra pennies. 
  • Meal plan: Avoid spending unnecessary money on food you don't need by planning some meals you know how to cook and ones you'll enjoy. 
  • Consider your budget: Don't waste all of your budget on food you don't need. Making a meal plan in advance can help you stay on track. 
  • Check your storage space: Whether you have a full fridge to yourself or have to share with flatmates, make sure you're not going to over-stock and run out of space. 
  • Eat before you go: Did you know that if you go on a food shop on an empty stomach you're more likely to spend more money on snacks and unnecessary food? 
  • Don't forget the discounts: Make sure to check out what loyalty cards you can get from each supermarket that can get you discounts, like Sainsbury's Nectar Card or Tesco's Clubcard.  

Your shopping list πŸ›’

Long-lasting food

  • Seasonings, dried herbs and spices
  • Sugar
  • Olive/sunflower/vegetable oil
  • Stock cubes
  • Gravy granules

Cupboard classics

  • Tea bags/coffee granules
  • Pasta and pasta sauces
  • Rice
  • Noodles
  • Tinned beans/tomatoes/soups
  • Curry sauces
  • Jam
  • Squash
  • Cereal
  • Condiments
  • Bread

For the fridge

Dairy πŸ§€

  • Milk (almond, oat, soya etc.)
  • Eggs
  • Butter/spread
  • Cheese
  • Yoghurt

Protein πŸ₯“

  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Chicken
  • Fish/shellfish
  • Vegetarian/vegan alternatives

Fruit and vegetables 🍌

  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Grapes
  • Tomatoes
  • Potatoes
  • Onions
  • Peppers
  • Lettuce
  • Cucumber
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots

For the freezer 🧊

  • Frozen chips
  • Oven chips
  • Frozen vegetables
  • Pie
  • Chicken nuggets/plant-based alternative
  • Fish fingers
  • Garlic bread

Snacks 🍫

  • Crisps
  • Biscuits
  • Chocolate
  • Nuts

Supermarkets near you πŸ›

Now it's time to fill your fridge!