Most of the big chain grocery stores have their own smart phone apps. The apps allow customers to clip coupons and access their store memberships, which may provide additional savings. It's always a good idea to check out the app before shopping because the apps also have the latest ad.

• Kroger -- Kroger App

• Meijer -- MPerks

• Target -- Target Circle

• Walmart -- Walmart App

Knowing which day your favorite grocery store switches the sales over is a great way to save money and get what you need. If a store does not have a sales product, you can get a raincheck and pick the item up for the sales price when it's back in stock.

• Kroger -- starts on Wednesday, ends on Tuesday. To see the weekly ad, go to www.kroger.com.

• Meijer -- starts on Sunday, ends on Saturday. To see weekly ad, go to www.meijer.com.

• Westborn Market -- starts on Wednesday, ends on Tuesday. To see weekly ad, go to www.westbornmarket.com.

• Dearborn Fresh Supermarket -- starts on Monday, ends on Sunday. To see weekly ad, go to www.dearbornfreshsupermarket.com.

• DON'T SHOP HUNGRY -- the number 1 rule of grocery shopping. Shopping with and empty belly is a guarantee that things will end up in your cart that's not on your list.

• Cart size -- grab a small cart as opposed to a big one. It's easier to fill up a big cart with items that aren't on the list than a small cart.

• Quantity based sales -- just because a sale lists a quantity (ex. 10 for $10) doesn't mean you have to buy that exact number of items. Only buy what you need.

• Expiration dates -- check expiration dates on both coupons and sales. It will save both money and frustration.

• Coupon fine print -- before using a coupon, read the fine print. There may be a catch like you have to buy multiples of the product or the coupon can't be used in addition to a sale.

• Organic vs. conventional produce -- while there's pros and cons to organic produce, the biggest con is the price. If price is an issue, stick with conventional produce. There is no difference in nutrition between the two.

• Free samples -- everyone loves free samples. The problem is free samples lead to buying items that are not on the list.

• Go meatless -- even just one meal a week without meat can save some hard-earned cash.

• Pickup groceries -- most grocery stores provide free grocery pickup when shoppers spend over a certain amount. Staying in the car can save shoppers from picking up items not on the list.

• Look down -- grocers put the more expensive items at eye level. Look down to find generic or store brand products that are the same quality, but cheaper.

• Meat counter -- when shopping for meat, try the meat counter as opposed to picking up prepackaged meat. Not only is the meat fresher, but shoppers can also buy the exact amount needed, which saves money.