How much should you spend on groceries?
A good rule of thumb is to spend 10 to 15% of your income on groceries.
- Example: If you earn R15 000, aim to spend between R1 500 and R2 250 a month
- Every household is different. A family with teenagers who are always hungry will spend more than a student living alone
Smart shopping habits that save rands
The way you shop matters as much as what you buy. Try these tips:
- Compare prices: Don’t assume one shop is always cheaper. Check weekly specials and use store apps to spot the best deals
- Buy in bulk: Stock up on pantry staples like rice and long-life milk when they’re on special. Just make sure you’ll use them before they expire
- Eat before going shopping: You’ll spend less when you’re not hungry
- Choose store brands. House-brand products are usually more affordable and just as good as big brands
- Pay with your card. Use your Capitec Credit Card to get 1% cash on all grocery purchases
Meal planning hacks to reduce waste and costs
Spending a few minutes planning your meals can save you hundreds each month.
- Check what you already have: You can use Sunday’s leftover roast chicken to make chicken mayo toasties for lunch
- Cook once, eat twice: Make a big pot of curry or soup and freeze half
- Plan your week: Shop once to avoid extra trips and impulse buys
- Write a shopping list: If it’s not on the list, leave it
- Buy seasonal: In-season fruit and veg cost less and taste better
- Grow your own: Veggies like tomatoes and spinach are healthy and easy to maintain
- Meatless Mondays: Swap meat for beans or lentils for a more affordable meal that’s still packed with protein
Loyalty programmes that help you save
Loyalty points and discounts can save you money. Use them whenever you can.
- Checkers Xtra Savings Rewards: Save up to 25% on selected groceries
- Pick n Pay Smart Shopper: Get discounts, points and cash back
- Woolworths WRewards: Get instant savings and occasional vouchers
- Capitec Live Better: Earn 1% cash back with our Credit Card plus discounts with our rewards partners
