Grocery prices may fluctuate, but one thing remains constant—smart shoppers find ways to stretch every dollar. Between loyalty programs, digital coupons, rebate platforms, and cashback apps, there’s no shortage of tools to lower your food bill. But which ones really work, and how do you stack them together for maximum savings?
This guide breaks down proven grocery hacks that combine traditional and modern strategies to keep more money in your wallet.
- Stack store loyalty rewards with digital rebate apps
Nearly every major grocery store offers a loyalty program. These programs often provide exclusive prices, personalized coupons, and rewards points just for entering your phone number at checkout. If you shop at Albertsons, Safeway, Kroger, or Publix, signing up is free and can unlock significant savings over time.
Once you activate those discounts, layer on cashback apps like:
- Ibotta: Earn rebates by selecting offers in advance and scanning your receipt post-purchase
- Rakuten: Great for online grocery orders, especially through platforms like Instacart or Walmart
- Fluz: Buy digital gift cards at checkout to receive instant cashback on the amount you’re already spending
By combining a store’s loyalty program with one or more rebate apps, you can earn rewards on the same purchase from multiple angles.
- Use cashback gift cards for your total—down to the cent
Cashback gift card platforms like Fluz are especially useful for stacking savings because they let you buy a gift card for the exact total of your transaction in real time. You can earn cashback with a Kroger gift card, save money at Walmart with a digital gift card, or get rewards with a Safeway gift card—and do it instantly at checkout.
Unlike traditional gift cards that require estimating or preloading, Fluz gives you the flexibility to earn cashback with no guesswork. It’s especially powerful when used alongside credit cards that also reward grocery spending.
- Shop based on weekly store ads and seasonal produce
Shopping the store’s weekly circular (available online or through the store app) is a time-tested way to plan meals around sales. Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be cheaper and fresher, so focus your list around what’s currently in peak supply.
Check your local store’s flyer via:
Pair these sales with rebate offers or cashback gift cards to double up your savings on already-discounted items.
- Combine manufacturer coupons with store discounts
Many stores let you stack manufacturer coupons (often available through Coupons.com) with store promotions. This can lead to deeply discounted—or even free—products when timed correctly. Be sure to read each store’s coupon policy, as rules vary.
- Avoid impulse buys by shopping with a detailed list
One of the most effective hacks doesn’t involve any app at all: shop with a written plan. Studies show that shoppers without a list spend significantly more. Stick to your budget by planning meals before you go and writing out what you need—then use cashback tools to reduce the cost of those planned purchases.
Get started with the right tools
For instant rewards, download Fluz and begin stacking cashback at checkout. Combine that with free apps like Ibotta, your store loyalty number, and the weekly sales flyer, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of grocery savings.
