Ever wondered how to make those grocery dollars stretch just a little further? Here are some proven tips that have helped me regularly save 50 to 70 percent off my grocery bills.

1. Go through the grocery ads from your local paper and write up separate lists for each store of items you need and the price of each one. Include things you are out of, as well as items that are deeply discounted with coupons (particularly products you use on a regular basis.)

2. Compare each item and price for each store. Narrow your list down to things you really need, or that are extremely inexpensive.

3. Clip coupons. Don't forget to shop at stores that have double coupons or give rewards.

4. Go to the neighborhood discount store first. Get whatever you can from your list there, using coupons if possible.

5. Buy in bulk only if it saves money. It often does, but not always. Compare the per pound/per item cost.

6.Compare the generic and the brand name prices. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to buy the name brand if it's on sale and you have a coupon.

7. Shop the other stores using only your grocery list.

8. Go home and add up how much money you've saved by being a wise shopper!

9. Finally, share with your friends how they can save too; they'll appreciate it.

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