2. Spices and Seasonings (Small Jars)

That tiny glass jar of oregano or garlic powder in the baking aisle might seem inexpensive at four or five dollars, but when you look closer, you will discover it is one of the biggest budget traps. Spices sold in small, branded jars have astronomical markups, often based on the packaging and placement rather than the product itself. The key to seeing the real cost is to look at the unit price. The unit price tells you how much you are paying per ounce, pound, or gram, and it is usually printed in smaller type on the shelf tag.

Let’s do some simple math. A standard 0.75-ounce jar of brand-name dried basil might cost $4.50. To find the unit price, you divide the cost by the weight: $4.50 divided by 0.75 ounces equals a staggering $6.00 per ounce. Now, walk over to the international foods aisle or look for larger, store-brand plastic containers. You might find a 4-ounce container of the same dried basil for $5.00. Its unit price is just $1.25 per ounce ($5.00 divided by 4 ounces). By choosing the larger size, you save $4.75 for every single ounce of spice you buy.

The Money-Saving Move: Buy in Bulk or from the International Aisle

Your first stop for affordable spices should be the bulk bins if your store has them. You can buy the exact amount you need, which reduces waste and cost. Bring your old, clean spice jars to refill. If bulk bins are not an option, head to the international or ethnic food aisles. Spices packaged for these sections often come in simple plastic bags or larger containers and are dramatically cheaper per ounce than their counterparts in the main baking aisle.

Another great strategy is to grow your own fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or mint. A small plant on a sunny windowsill can provide fresh flavor all season long for the price of a single packet of seeds or a starter plant. At the end of the season, you can easily dry the leftover herbs for winter use, giving you a virtually free supply.