I Grew Up Poor: 8 Groceries I Never Buy To Save Money
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Amber Barkley
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Growing up in the Bronx with limited means, Drew K. learned early on how to stretch a dollar at the grocery store. His childhood experiences shaped his shopping habits, teaching him valuable lessons about frugality and smart spending. Drew shared his insights on which items he still avoids to keep his grocery bill in check — and if you’re looking to save more money, take a look at more ideas for National Savings Day.
Here are eight groceries he never buys to save money.
Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
“Sure, they’re convenient, but the markup is insane,” Drew said. “I can spend five minutes chopping a melon at home and save myself a few bucks. It’s not just about the money — it’s about respecting the value of my labor versus what I’m being charged for someone else’s.”
Name-Brand Cereals
Drew remembers his childhood breakfasts fondly. “We always had the store brand cereals,” he said. “They taste just as good, and they’re often made in the same factories as the fancy boxes.”
Now, as an adult, he still can’t justify paying extra for a cartoon character on the box.
Bottled Water
“Growing up, tap water was all we had, and it was fine,” Drew said. “Now, I use a filter pitcher at home. Buying bottled water feels like throwing money down the drain, literally.”
Single-Serving Snack Packs
Drew shook his head at these.
“Those little bags of chips or cookies might seem cheap, but you’re paying for all that extra packaging,” he said. “I buy the big bag and portion it out myself. It’s better for my wallet and the environment.”
Pre-Made Sandwiches
“I learned to make sandwiches before I could ride a bike,” Drew shared. “Paying $8 for something I can make for $2 at home just doesn’t sit right with me. Plus, I can customize it exactly how I like it.”
Specialty Coffees
Drew admitted this one was a learning curve. “When I first started working, I thought fancy coffee was a status symbol. Now, I realize it’s a money pit. I make great coffee at home for a fraction of the cost.”
Out-of-Season Produce
“My mom taught me to eat with the seasons,” Drew explained. “Buying strawberries in December is not only expensive, but they don’t even taste good. I stick to what’s in season and abundant.”
Prepared Salad Kits
Drew laughs when he sees these in the store. “A bag of chopped lettuce with a tiny packet of dressing and croutons for $5? No way. I can make a week’s worth of salads for that price if I buy the ingredients separately.”
More From GOBankingRates
