As we navigate our finances, the cost of living can often feel like a trolley too heavy to push.

With grocery prices reaching new heights and showing no signs of descending this year, Aussies are looking for ways to stretch their dollars further.

Here's a savvy shopping secret that could see you saving a whopping amount on some grocery items.

The secret? Bypass the supermarket for fresh produce.

While supermarkets offer convenience, they often fetch a higher price for fruits and vegetables.

Instead, turn your attention to the local farmers' markets where the bounty of the land is abundant and the prices are significantly lower, helping shoppers save almost 70 per cent.

You'll find fruits and vegetables that are not only fresher but also more affordable than their corporate counterparts.

Supermarkets may have to take a backseat as you explore the vibrant stalls of your local market, where farm-to-table produce flows aplenty.

A bustling market filled with the chatter of vendors and shoppers, local farmers display an array of fresh produce ripe for the picking. Image Credit: Pexels/Andretti Brown

To maximise your savings, consider buying in bulk.

It reduces the cost per unit, allowing shoppers to get creative in the kitchen.

Prepare and preserve your market haul for the weeks ahead.

Channel the wisdom of our forebears who knew the art of enjoying fruits and vegetables year-round.

Think of the joy of crafting homemade soups, preserves, dried fruits, and jams.

Also, never forget the joy of baking with fresh ingredients.

Even if, like many of us, you've yet to perfect the art of the non-soggy pie base, the aroma of home-baked goods is a reward in itself.

Dried apple slices, for instance, can be easily made at home with a low and slow bake in the oven, resulting in healthy snacks for school or work.

These methods both let shoppers save money and enjoy healthier options for meals.

Not sure where to find a market in your area? Do not fret.

The Australian Farmers' Market Association has a handy tool to locate nearby markets, with varying schedules catering to shoppers’ schedules and needs.

These markets don’t just offer shopping options, they are also community gatherings where kids can play and people can enjoy other artisanal treats.

Another perk of visiting farmers’ markets is when you visit a few hours before closing. Further discounts await those who love to shop at a later time.

Shopping for produce in these markets will help consumers free up more budget for supermarket-specific items.

It's time to take advantage of the bountiful savings that await at your local market.

Not only will your wallet thank you, but you will also support local farmers and enjoy the freshest produce available.

Key Takeaways

• Grocery prices have skyrocketed in the past year, pressing consumers to find savings wherever possible.
• Shopping at local farmers' markets helps shoppers save up to 70 per cent on fresh produce compared to supermarket prices.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables purchased at these markets are often fresher and more affordable.
• The Australian Farmers' Market Association can locate the nearest farmers' market, with shoppers saving more if they visit towards closing time.

Have you spent your weekends at a local farmer’s market? What tips can you share when buying fresh fruits and vegetables? Share your experiences and favourite finds in the comments below!

 

[Wizzard]

Good idea to buy from farmers stores. BUT it is wise to check with a senior staff person when the so called fresh items were actually harvested from the growing farm. Some of them have been in the shop for up to a week and without the extra protection such as supermarket stock has applied, the items go ripe quicker. Bananas are a good example as those from coles or woolies will still be edible a week after purchase. I have bought them from IGA and Aldi's to test this out.

 

[Annna]

In my local area, the weekend markets tend to predominantly sell goods/used items. There is one that has 2 fruit/veg sellers. One sells at prices comparable to supermarkets and the other's produce is often damaged/overripe/going off .