Helpful hints to save on your big shop spending

It's impossible not to notice how much food, drink and essential items are increasing in price.

- MARTYN JAMES

Every month, the Office of National Statistics publishes the latest inflation figure. This shows how the prices for goods and services are changing as a percentage. For years now, food and nonalcoholic drink prices have increased at a higher rate (4.5% in September) than the overall rate of inflation (3.8%).

The reasons for this are varied and complex. But there are ways you can save on your weekly shop.

Everything from the layout of the store to the smells that waft past are designed to get you spending, so stick to these simple rules.

Avoid doing a shop just after payday - your subconscious knows you have money and will nudge you to splash out; set a budget and stick to it, and never, ever go food shopping hungry.

Here are some other top tips...

BRING BACK THE SHOPPING LIST

Making a list helps you work out what you need, rather than what distracts you when browsing without a clear plan. More importantly, you can price up items online first so you have a good idea of what you are spending.