Regardless of whatever is going on, getting out of the grocery store on a 'budget' is nearly impossible for me. However, with the holidays here, that just means that I have more shopping than normal – so I have to follow my budget.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means it's time to join the checkout lines with all of the ingredients for your holiday goodies. If you plan it right, it's fairly easy to get through the store (and checkout line) with little stress and a little more cash in your pocket than you intended!

Make a List

Make a headcount of how many people you are going to be serving, then, decide what's for dinner. It's so easy to overcook when you're expecting guests. We can all appreciate turkey left overs for a day, but you don't want to be feasting on side dishes for a week – even worse, you don't want to waste! Many recipe websites will help you determine the exact quantity needed for your headcount. With your headcount in mind and list in hand, you shouldn't have to make multiple trips to the store!

Go armed when you shop – with a price book (or at least a pen and paper). I have a horrible habit of seeing things on sale and popping them in the cart, disregarding my budget. Lately I've been bringing along my list and adding on my extras, writing their price down (along with everything else) and then crossing it off the list. Then, before I hit the register I can scan my list, see how over budget I went and then thoughtfully put back whatever I don't need.

Grocery Price Book Spreadsheet (for those more organized than a notebook!)

Search for Deals

Once you've got your list of ingredients, check out some coupon search engines and see how many discounts you can grab! Don't forget about your local paper as well, check out whatever deals you can take advantage of. Also, check the price match policy at your favorite store. Some stores will double up on your coupons and match prices. Easier to hit one place for everything than travel around trying to save a few cents.

Have some fun with seasonal produce this year! Figure out how you can work them into your menu instead of buying out of season produce. If you like a little wine with your thanksgiving dinner (or while you're trying to cook it!), go cheaper and get some boxed wine. If you don't want to slam the box on the table, pour it into a nice decanter for more visual appeal.

Shopping frugally may take some time, but as long as you start early enough, there's no need to rush!