Master Online Grocery Shopping: Save Money and Time with These Tips

The Rise of Online Grocery Shopping

Online grocery shopping has become a staple in American households, especially among adults aged 45 to 60. Recent data from Coresight reports that more than half of adults in this age group now buy food online, with a staggering $3.9 billion spent on online grocery orders in May 2025 alone, marking a 77% increase from the previous year. This shift speaks volumes about changing consumer behaviors—driven by convenience, safety, and the desire to avoid crowded grocery stores. However, as attractive as online grocery shopping is, it often comes with hidden costs that can catch shoppers off guard.

Managing Costs in Online Grocery Shopping

While the convenience of shopping from home is undeniable, online grocery shopping can lead to higher expenses primarily due to delivery fees, potential price markups, and additional charges like small-order fees or alcohol surcharges. To help mitigate these costs, consumers in Maryland can adopt several smart strategies.

1. Choose Your Service Wisely

Before diving into online shopping, it is essential to identify which delivery services operate in your area. While services like Amazon Fresh, Walmart, and Whole Foods are well-known, regional options may be available as well. By understanding which retailers deliver to your location, you can avoid unwanted surprises and select the cost-effective option.

2. Timing is Everything

When you decide to order your groceries can dramatically impact availability and prices. Many experts recommend placing orders during mid-week. A report from RetailMeNot suggests Wednesday mornings as prime shopping times, coinciding with the restocking of shelves and refresh of weekly promotions. Weekends typically result in higher-priced items due to increased substitution rates and less availability.

3. Scrutinize Costs

Many delivery platforms charge higher prices for online items compared to in-store prices, and sometimes there are hidden charges. Familiarize yourself with the fine print associated with each grocery service. Reviewing your shopping cart carefully before finalizing the purchase can help prevent unpleasant surprises and manage your budget more effectively.

4. Leverage Loyalty Programs

Don't forget to link your loyalty cards to your grocery accounts when shopping online. Many supermarkets offer loyalty programs that allow you to accumulate points and earn discounts or fuel savings equivalent to in-store shopping. Apps like Fetch and Receipt Pal also provide additional earning opportunities for your shopping receipts, turning them into points redeemable for gift cards.

5. Embrace Surplus and “Imperfect” Foods

Many grocery stores and online platforms have started featuring surplus or “imperfect” produce, which tends to be much cheaper than product-grade items. Companies like Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods offer discounts on perfectly safe produce that may simply have cosmetic defects. This not only saves money but contributes to reducing food waste—an issue that increasingly resonates with consumers focused on sustainability.

6. Buy Gift Cards at a Discount

To gain a slight financial edge, consider purchasing gift cards for your usual grocery stores at a discount via resale websites such as CardCash and Gift Card Granny. If you find a $100 grocery gift card for $97, it can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the convenience of online shopping.

7. Free Shipping Offers

If you shop frequently, explore services that provide free shipping on certain order sizes or subscriptions. This option can make online shopping much more appealing and cost-efficient in the long run.

8. Meal Planning for Savings

By planning your meals around what’s on sale, you can effectively manage both your grocery budget and waste. Use local weekly ads to your advantage to identify deals, and create meal plans that capitalize on what’s discounted.

9. Community-Based Delivery Options

Maryland residents can also explore community-based grocery delivery initiatives that sometimes offer better prices than nationwide chains. From local co-ops to farmers’ markets, these options can yield fresh produce for less while supporting local businesses.

10. Emotional and Human Interest Perspective

For many in Maryland, online grocery shopping has become the best way to maintain healthier eating habits amid busy schedules. The opportunity to carefully select healthy options from the comfort of home not only benefits families but also gives seniors and others with mobility issues a way to access fresh groceries without the added strain of physical shopping trips. This convenience can have profound emotional effects—providing peace of mind, safety, and a sense of autonomy.

By leveraging these strategies effectively, consumers can enjoy the conveniences of online grocery shopping while remaining budget-conscious. As trends indicate that this shopping method is here to stay, being savvy about spending habits will empower Maryland residents to make informed decisions that support their well-being and financial health.