Some items are staples you’ll always need—but that doesn’t mean you should always pay full price. Certain grocery products go on sale frequently, and stocking up when the price is right can lead to significant long-term savings. Whether you’re shopping for your family or just trying to stretch your food budget, these are the top 10 grocery items that are almost always worth grabbing on sale.

1. Pasta
   Pasta is shelf-stable, versatile, and regularly marked down during store promotions. You can often find name-brand or store-brand pasta for as low as $1 or less per box. Buy in bulk during BOGO events or storewide pantry sales.
2. Canned tomatoes and beans
   Canned goods have long shelf lives and are key ingredients in soups, stews, and sauces. Look for multi-can discounts or case lot sales, especially in January or early fall. These frequently appear in circulars at stores like Kroger and Safeway.
3. Peanut butter
   This protein-packed spread is a back-to-school sale favorite and typically drops in price during August and September. It stores well and is a staple for quick meals and snacks.
4. Cheese (especially shredded or block)
   Shredded cheese and block cheese often go on sale at warehouse clubs like Costco and BJ’s Wholesale Club. Cheese freezes well, making it easy to stock up when prices drop.
5. Eggs
   Egg prices fluctuate, but they’re a regular promotional item at most grocers. Use weekly ads and digital coupons from apps like Stop & Shop GO Rewards or Safeway for U to track the best deals.
6. Chicken (thighs, legs, or whole)
   These cuts are frequently discounted during weekly meat promotions. Stock up and freeze in portioned bags to save over time. Pair with store loyalty rewards for maximum value.
7. Frozen vegetables
   Frozen produce is often cheaper than fresh and goes on sale regularly—especially at the end of each quarter when grocers rotate stock. Great for stir-fries, soups, and quick sides.
8. Breakfast cereal and oatmeal
   Cereal companies run deep discounts in January and again before school starts. Oats, meanwhile, are affordable year-round but often bundled with seasonal health promotions.
9. Baking supplies (flour, sugar, oil)
   Watch for these to go on sale during the fall holiday season (October–December) and again in spring. Stocking up during baking season ensures you’ll never overpay.
10. Toilet paper and paper towels
    While not food items, they’re household essentials and a smart add-on when shopping at warehouse stores. Look for manufacturer rebates and bulk promotions. Stack deals with digital coupons for the best savings.

Bonus tip: Pay with gift cards for added cashback

After finding a great sale, you can increase your savings by using cashback gift cards from Fluz. For example:

• Buy a Safeway gift card online and earn cashback while shopping sale items

• Get grocery discounts at H-E-B on canned goods and meats

• Save money with a BJ’s Wholesale gift card when buying bulk cheese and paper goods

Just purchase a digital gift card for your estimated total through Fluz and receive instant cashback—no receipts or waiting.