We found during a tight time that we saved a lot of money by shopping at Aldi for just the basics. We focused on using up all the pantry and freezer items and only shopped for the fresh items and sides required to make meals. We eliminated packaged snack and dessert items and pop from our purchases and drank tea and koolaid and just snacked on fruits, vegetables, and leftovers. We saved a ton of money and it helped us get back on track during some tight months.