Riverwind at Alafaya Trail Apartments are located just 1.5 miles from the University of Central Florida in Oviedo and close to the Oviedo Farmers Market.
If you are like most right now, every time you buy groceries, you find that prices have risen. Whether you are a University of Central Florida freshman or graduate student, saving money on groceries is always essential for staying within budget during your college experience. Staying on a budget allows you to concentrate on getting your education and avoid unnecessary stress about money. We compiled some tips below to help you save money on your grocery trips at your UCF apartment.
SHOP AROUND
As you attend UCF, your free time may be limited, but you may save a lot of money each month by shopping around. Learn when your favorite stores have sales and buy store brand products when available. Publix usually has many products for BOGO (buy one get one free), which is excellent for things that you use a lot, and you may want to stock up on items during those sales. There are two Aldi locations near the University of Central Florida campus, and it is a favorite for all who love getting the most groceries for the lowest prices. You may also want to look at Walmart to compare prices.
BUY LOCAL
Buying local is especially beneficial when purchasing food, including meats and produce. It helps support your local community, saves transportation costs which trickle down to saving you money in some cases. North of campus on the first Saturday of each month, you can find the Oviedo Farmers Market, or west of your UCF apartment is the Orlando Farmers Market held every Sunday.
BUY SOME ITEMS IN BULK
It may make sense to buy in bulk for some items such as paper towels, toilet paper, or your favorite rice. A membership to Sam's Club or Costco Wholesale may make sense if you plan to buy a lot in bulk. If you have roommates, you may want to put your money together on some items to share.
USE PICKUP SERVICES
During the pandemic, many started using the various pickup services and have continued since then. Almost all your favorite stores offer some type of service, whether you choose inside the store or curbside pickup or home delivery through Instacart or Shipt. Although some of these services charge a little extra, in the long run, it may save you money by avoiding those impulse buys that we are all guilty of making. You can do your order from your apartment near UCF or during a break between classes, then pick it up or have it delivered at a time convenient for your schedule. This service allows you time to double-check your list for everything you need without the extras of shopping in-store.
MAKE A LIST
Similar to pick up services above, making a list and following the list helps you avoid the impulse buys of every grocery trip. Keep a notepad in your kitchen where you can write down things that you run out of as you notice them. This daily task helps you avoid forgetting anything when your grocery trip comes along. If an item isn't on your list, it doesn't make it in your cart. It keeps you organized and will save you money.
Trying to stay within a budget while also attending college can be stressful, especially when the prices rise again every time you go to the store. We hope these tips help you save money on your grocery trips while living in your student apartment in Orlando.