Save more, worry less: Tips for last-minute Thanksgiving shopping
Nov 22, 2022, 10:01 AM
SALT LAKE CITY — If you still need to do some last-minute Thanksgiving shopping, we want to help you save more, and worry less.
Turkey prices are going down as we get closer to Thanksgiving Day.
So if you haven’t purchased one yet, you should find one at a lower cost, especially a frozen turkey, depending on the size.
Here are 10 ways you can save on Thanksgiving food shopping via Consumer Reports:
- Mind the turkey promotions: Check grocery store ads for bargains or even free giveaways. Walmart has a butterball whole turkey for $1.18 a pound. At Costco, you can get a whole smoked turkey for $4.49 a pound.
- Go big. A recent survey of major grocery chains across the country shows, a bigger turkey doesn’t necessarily cost more per pound than a smaller one from the same producer. Plus, you’ll have more leftovers!
- Alternatively, think small. If you don’t want leftovers, buy a smaller turkey, roasting chicken or a turkey breast, which will cost less.
- Keep it simple. Focus on the main dishes instead of pricy appetizers or store-bought side dishes.
- With veggies, mix up the fresh and frozen. Fresh vegetable prices have risen less in the past year at 7.4%. So take advantage of the savings, plus the added nutrition.
- Go with store brands. Buying generic is at least 20% to 25% less than name brands of the same product.
- Use the produce scale. Weighing your fruits and vegetables instead of just grabbing the first container or bag of produce you see, can actually stretch your dollar.
- Buy in bulk. With a limited menu, you may need more of each ingredient so you can save money buying in bulk.
- Compare unit prices. Under each product you’ll see the unit price shelf sticker, you can compare prices of similar items.
- Use shopping apps like Ibotta. Ibotta is running a promotion where you can get a free Thanksgiving meal with turkey, sides and gravy.
You redeem grocery receipts to unlock free offers at participating stores. The offer is valid through Wednesday or while supplies last.