12 Ways to Save Money at the Farmers Market

There’s an art to saving money at farmers markets compared to grocery stores. The prices aren’t always lower, but there are other factors to consider that make farmers markets a better value for the money.

And there are also some easy tips to make sure you actually spend less than what you would at a grocery store, or come away with better produce.

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Farmers Market Flipping

I’m afraid I have to warn you about a sort-of scam happening at some farmers markets. It used to be the farmers market was a sure bet if you wanted to get better produce or spend less than you would at the grocery store.

Not so anymore – now some farmers markets are simply flipping grocery store produce and selling it at higher prices, hoping you’ll assume it’s worth the extra cost. And people are falling for it.

Note both prices and brands of produce available at your big chain grocery stores. If you never go near chain stores, I would suggest you do so once in a while – just take a few photos with a digital camera or phone camera of brand labels and price stickers so you have a point of comparison for the farmers market.

Do not assume your farmers market is so reliable they wouldn’t do this. I’m seeing this practice at renowned, respected farmers markets, and I’ve heard about it from some of you too.

So now that you know to avoid that, let’s get on with how to save money!

Why Farmers Markets Often Charge More Than Grocery Stores

Farmers markets aren’t always cheaper than grocery stores. Sometimes it’s because the farmers have more overhead than big box stores.

But sometimes it’s because their stuff is better quality. They often sell organic or heirloom products, or their produce is simply fresher.

Grocery Stores can Hide Bad Produce

At a grocery store, sometimes a basket of fruit looks great on top, but underneath you find fruit that’s about to rot – or already rotting.

In my experience, this is less common at farmers markets because their reputation is their livelihood. In any case, they’ll let you look through a basket and make sure you’re happy with every piece of fruit.

And the stall keepers will often help you pick out the best produce they have, and happily acknowledge when a piece you’ve chosen isn’t so great. They often give me tips about how to pick good produce, too.

Environmental Savings

Local produce is generally better for the environment because it isn’t trucked/flown all over the globe. But because they don’t have a supply chain infrastructure, it can actually cost farmers more to bring their own goods to market than it does a big supermarket.

1. How to Get the Best Bargains at the Farmers Market

Some items are cheaper at the farmers market, others are more expensive. It’s pretty easy to come out even with what you’d have spent at the grocery store and have better quality food to show for it. But to save money:

2. Create a Shopping List

Start by making a list of the fruits, vegetables, and other items you need. Check your fridge, pantry, and meal plan to get a sense of what you’re running low on.

This will prevent you from making impulse purchases and help you stay focused on your budget. You can keep this list on paper or on your phone.

3. Walk Around and Check Prices First

Chances are, several vendors will sell some of the items you need. Walk around and compare prices on items before deciding where to buy.

By checking every stall first and taking notes on the items you want, you’ll get the best price.

4. Arrive Early (or Late)

Vendors may offer discounts or mark down items towards the end of the day to avoid having to transport unsold produce back home. On the flip side, arriving right when the market opens can give you first dibs on the freshest, most sought-after items.

5. Buy in Bulk or By the Case

Many vendors offer discounts for buying produce in larger quantities, such as by the pound, case, or crate. This can be a great way to stock up on items you know you’ll use, like tomatoes for canning or apples for baking.

But only buy in bulk if you can use (or preserve) the food before it spoils. Bulk cooking is a great way to use it all up. No bargain is a bargain if you’re going to end up losing some of what you paid for.

Another way to take advantage of bulk pricing is to bring along family or friends so you can split bulk purchases. Or make arrangements in advance if they can’t come with you.

6. Opt for Seconds or Imperfects

Don’t overlook the “seconds” or “imperfect” produce that vendors often sell at a steep discount. These may be items with minor blemishes or irregularities in size or shape, but they’re just as fresh and nutritious as the picture-perfect produce.

7. Talk to the stall keepers

It doesn’t happen every time, but sometimes if you engage them in conversation about the produce, they’ll throw in an extra piece or offer you a bargain. They may also suggest recipes you never thought of or educate you on produce you’ve never tasted, which is another great form of value.

8. Bring your own bags

whether you reuse plastic bags or bring canvas totes, the fewer plastic bags they have to provide, the more they will save, and the more savings they can pass on to you.

9. Ask About Bundles or Discounts

Many farmers market vendors are willing to negotiate or offer bundle deals, especially for customers who are buying in larger quantities. Don’t be afraid to politely ask if they have any specials or discounts available.

10. Try more than one market

If there are several in your area, some may have better bargains than others.

11. Be Flexible About Your List

Being willing to try unfamiliar produce items can save you money and expand your palate!

12. Bring Cash – and Lots of Change

Every electronic payment system costs small businesses money. If you bring cash, some vendors will give you a small discount as thanks.

And while you’re at it, bring change – singles and also coins (mainly quarters). Since most people don’t, farmers can have a tough time keeping enough change on hand. If you’re able to pay in exact change or close to it, they sometimes give you a little something extra for your consideration.