How you like to grocery shop actually says more about you than you might think.
A Sunday might be your worst nightmare with long lines and a packed parking lot. You might run in and out of the store, or you might take your time in the aisles, looking for the newly released items. While everyone grocery shops a little differently, it can say a lot about you — and experts say that depending on how you want to shop, there are better times to go.
Take this quiz to see what kind of grocery shopper you are, and check out our advice below for shopping tips based on your shopping style.
When should you go grocery shopping?
Did you get your result? Here's when experts say you should be going to the grocery store, based on your shopping style:
- The Saver: If you're a saver, Kim Palmer, a finance expert with NerdWallet, said the best time to go grocery shopping is on a Wednesday or Thursday, which is when new weekly discounts and coupons are usually released. These items can sell out, leaving only the full-priced items, so it's best to get there as soon as they're released. That said, it varies by grocery store, and you should check with your local grocery store on when they are released.
- The weekend warrior: If you're going on the weekend, you will be battling with other shoppers since many of them like to shop when they have time on a Sunday. This doesn't necessarily just mean it will be busy; there might also be less produce on the shelves by the end of the day. Palmer said grocery stores usually restock early in the morning, and shopping first thing often gives you access to the freshest and most fully stocked produce.
- The time saver: If you're looking to get in and out of the grocery store fast, Palmer and McGrath both recommended the mornings on weekdays, especially Wednesday or Thursday. That is usually when it's the least busy. If you can't go at this time, make sure to go in with a list and skip time by only looking for what you need.
- The social butterfly: If you enjoy trying items, socializing and taking your time at the grocery store, you can really go whenever. Dare I say, you could even try the busiest times during the weekend. However, not every friendly person loves a line, so if you're looking for a quieter time to sort through the store, experts recommend going on Wednesday or Thursday morning, when it's the quietest and when deals come out.
Grocery shopping doesn't have to be miserable. It
doesn't have to be packed parking lots, long lines and a big receipt at the end. You might just be going at the wrong time.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How do you grocery shop? Here's what it says about you
