If you are anything like me, you came back from break and have all your dishes put away, but your pantry and refrigerator are empty. Coming from someone who did not live off-campus until her senior year of college, the thought of doing my own grocery shopping was extremely scary. Although I love to cook, the dining hall was one of my favorite things about living on-campus! I would roll out of bed in the morning in my favorite pajamas, go eat, and go back to my bed without having to worry about doing the dishes. For some of us, living in the dorms without a kitchen was a struggle, whereas others found having the dining hall instead of a kitchen of their own was a huge perk! Whichever way you lean, some of us now have a kitchen and need food to put in it. Grocery shopping can be completely overwhelming, especially when you are shopping for yourself. It is important to consider looking up meal ideas before going to the store. This way, you can compile a list of ingredients that you need. 

It’s time to restock for the upcoming semester! Here is a list of potential grocery store items and tips to make adulting less intimidating.

A College Apartment Grocery List

• Eggs
• Milk
• Olive Oil
• Butter
• Crackers
• Peanut Butter and Jelly
• Cereal
• Pasta (Don’t forget sauce! You could always just buy a can of tomatoes!)
• Spices and Condiments (Salt, Sugar, Pepper, Ketchup, Sriracha)
• Flour
• Bread
• Chicken
• Frozen Pizza
• Granola Bars
• Inexpensive fruit (Bananas, Grapes, or Apples)
• Frozen Vegetables (They are actually just as good for you, and they are easy and fast to cook for those busy nights of studying!)
• Don’t forget toilet paper and paper towels!

Apps for Coupons and Group Groceries

• Coupons.com

This app works for both Android and Apple phones and is great for offering a ton of coupons! It has discounts for groceries and everyday items, and it is very easy to use. Coupon savings from here can be used through email, printed from your mobile device, or added to your store loyalty card which they can scan at checkout.

• Our Groceries Shopping List

If you do group groceries with your roommates, this is the app for you! It is easy to use, and it allows you to instantly synchronize your grocery list with everyone. These lists that you are create not only keep you organized but are available on everyone’s phone or web browser. Check it out for an easy way to keep track of group grocery items!