7 Best Ways To Save Money at Aldi, According to Super Fans

It's almost gotten passé to talk about the economy, supply chain issues and how it's all affected grocery bills. (But seriously, the egg supply-chain issues right around Easter were a cruel joke only the 2020s could tell.)

Aldi has become a gem for individuals and families looking to save — the chain recently had 4th of July BBQ essentials for 30% less than the national average. The store is also known for stocking fewer items, keeping prices low and making it simpler to get in and get out. Despite Aldi's simplistic shopping style, it can still feel a tad overwhelming at first. And people obviously want to get the most bang for their buck.

One new Aldi fan turned to the pros on Reddit for advice.

"How much do you spend per person if you predominantly shop at Aldi?" asked u/Great-Republic6892 in the Aldi subreddit.

The user said they have a teen boy and a toddler.

"I'm not telling you how much I spend right now because OUCH. I'd have to go twice a week because [my] toddler practically lives on only super-perishable produce. Go on. Brag away. Convince me."

Reddit didn't just brag. They shared genius money-saving hacks to help OP — and you — slash your grocery bill (yes, even in this economy).

Related: Secret's Out: How to Tell If Your Aldi Fave Is Getting Discontinued

How Much to Expect to Spend at Aldi

As you'll see, the answer to OP's question — how much do you spend at Aldi? — doesn't have a specific answer. It depends on who you're shopping for and what you buy.

"For two, I probably spend $100 per week," said one. "I don’t just get basics, though. I get extras and usually a couple of steaks."

"Three adults, including wine, $120/week," said another. "I do buy some pantry and meats at Walmart and specialty international ingredients at other venues."

"Around $250 a week for the two of us, maybe a little less in summer because [of the] farmers market," said one Redditor from Kansas City who lives with their husband.."We eat all of our meals from home: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Lots of fresh fruit and veggies, fish and seafood. [My] husband loves his ginger beer."

Cheers to that.

"$70 per week for just one adult," said another from North Jersey. "[I'm] thinking about allowing my budget to go up to $100/week in an effort to not eat out as much."

It's an investment worth considering.

"For two adults, we usually spend about $60 a week," said another.

"Two adults: About $60-$80 a week," concurred someone else.

"Adult and a teen: Usually about $100/week," spilled another.

Related: Aldi Shoppers Are Sharing Their Go-To Items, and Our Grocery List Just Got a Lot Longer

How to Save (Even More) Money at Aldi

1. Stick to your staples

Consistency can help you streamline your shopping, savings and budget. You'll have an idea of how much you'll be spending each week, give or take sales.

"We typically eat the same things, so we'll get beef and chicken, milk, eggs, fruit/veggies and occasionally some Aldi Finds," suggested one Redditor.

(For those unfamiliar with the chain, Aldi Finds are limited-time products like frozen root beer floats and ice cream-filed cupcakes that are only available while supplies last.)

2. Compare and save

If you have time and multiple chains in your area, take a look online or at circulars to see who has the week's best bargains.

"Most stuff is 20-60% more expensive at other stores in my area, with the exception of Walmart," wrote one. "Walmart prices are pretty similar to Aldi's,"

A few examples, according to Redditors:

"I bought a dozen eggs at Aldi for $0.89, and today I was at Meijer (a large grocery store) and a dozen eggs was $2.09," said one person.

"Milk is another good example," wrote someone else. "A gallon at my local Aldi usually is $2.50. at Cub Foods (another major "budget" grocery store that dominates in the area) [had it] $4.50."

That's $1.20 in savings for eggs and a $2 less for milk — all of that adds up.

3. Meal plan before you shop

You may have heard this one before. But mapping out meals before shopping can reduce your grocery bill and the number of Aldi runs you make each week. Consider the days you plan to eat leftovers.

"I think genuinely planning what you’re going to eat helps a lot," an Aldi shopper wrote. "You can plan for making extra for leftovers, and you won’t have to worry about “Oh no, I want to make this, but I didn’t buy x, gotta run to the grocery store again!'"

4. Or shop for sales, then meal plan

Meal planning can be helpful. But one Redditor shops first and plans later. But there's a catch: They aren't just buying anything. The user is on a bargain hunt.

"My main tip is to base your meals on what's cheap/on sale/looks good, rather than basing it on what you feel like cooking/eating for the week," the Redditor wrote.

The poster revealed they learned it from their mother — sometimes, moms really do know best.

"We'd start in the produce section, see what looked fresh/good/cheap, then start coming up with meal ideas from there," the person said.

5. Get creative juices flowing

Don't just think of leftover days as a second helping of a previous meal (unless you want to). Consider it a chance to get creative in the kitchen (and shop for simple add-on ingredients – rather than a whole new meal — accordingly).

"Whenever I make Spanish rice, I use leftovers to make huge breakfast burritos for dinner the next day or use it as a base to a burrito bowl," a Redditor revealed. "With pasta, I like using the protein in different ways. I’ll make a bigger quantity and use meatballs originally made for spaghetti into meatball subs."

Dinner party at this Redditor's house, anyone?

6. Give it a shot

Change is hard, and if you're attached to your old grocery store, your first Aldi run may feel like a dud. Redditors suggest giving it some time. And it doesn't have to be all or nothing.

"Try it out for two full weeks and see how it goes," suggested a Redditor. "We still shop at Costco or regular stores for other things, but Aldi helps save where we can."

7. Regret nothing

Didn't stick to your plan but love the rule-breaking product you nabbed? Embrace it.

"I got an electric smoker two years ago at the end of the season, half-priced for $41," wrote one."Best money ever spent."

"I bought the waffle maker," said another. "I regret nothing."

Nor should you.