With the rise of grocery delivery apps and curbside pickup services, shoppers now have more options than ever when it comes to how they fill their carts. But which method actually saves you more money: shopping in person or ordering online? The answer depends on several key factors, including fees, impulse purchases, time savings, and how well you use cashback and rewards tools.
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown to help you decide which option works best for your budget and lifestyle.
- Price Comparison: Sticker Price vs. Service Fees
In-store prices are typically lower because you avoid extra service or delivery fees. However, many grocery delivery platforms like Instacart, Shipt, and Amazon Fresh often run the same weekly sales as physical stores.
Still, most delivery orders include:
- Service fees (typically 5–10% of the order total)
- Delivery fees (waived for premium members or orders over a certain amount)
- Tip expectations
For in-store shopping, you avoid these costs but spend more time driving, navigating aisles, and potentially making impulse purchases.
- Impulse Buys: Online Wins in Most Cases
In-person shopping often leads to unexpected purchases—whether it’s that extra bag of chips, an endcap display, or a sample that triggers a craving. According to a 2022 survey by Slickdeals, U.S. shoppers spend an average of $314 per month on impulse buys, much of it while grocery shopping.
With delivery services, you’re more likely to stick to your list and budget. Plus, apps make it easy to see your running total, remove items, and avoid unnecessary splurges.
- Cashback and Rewards: Both Can Work in Your Favor
Whether you shop in-store or online, stacking rewards is essential. In-store shoppers can scan loyalty cards and use paper or digital coupons, while online shoppers can activate rebates and cashback tools.
For instance, you can earn cashback with an Instacart gift card or get cashback at Walmart by purchasing a digital gift card through Fluz. Combine this with additional savings from Ibotta or Rakuten for maximum value.
If you’re shopping at a store like CVS or BJ’s Wholesale Club, you can also use Fluz to earn cashback while shopping in person.
- Time Savings: Delivery Adds Convenience Value
While not a direct savings metric, time is money. Grocery delivery or pickup can free up hours each week, which may be more valuable than the few dollars saved shopping in-store—especially for parents, caregivers, or busy professionals.
Most delivery platforms also allow you to re-order past items, build saved lists, and shop during off-hours. This convenience can reduce stress, increase productivity, and help prevent last-minute takeout.
- Substitutions and Quality Control: In-Store Gets the Edge
One downside to delivery is the potential for item substitutions and questionable produce or meat selections. When shopping in person, you control exactly what goes in your cart.
However, many delivery services now let you approve or reject substitutions via app and allow direct messaging with your shopper. Platforms like Instacart also offer satisfaction guarantees or refunds for poor-quality items.
Which Option Saves You More?
- Choose delivery if: You’re prone to impulse buys, short on time, or regularly order the same grocery staples
- Choose in-store if: You want the lowest prices per item, more control over product selection, or prefer cash payments
Either way, using cashback apps, loyalty programs, and gift card rewards can help bridge the cost gap and turn either method into a savings opportunity.
