My first shopping list

Food shopping is something you'll soon get used to but here's a good place to start for your very first food shop...

Independent living means lots of new tasks such as cleaning your own bedroom and bathroom, cooking, keeping on top of your studies and doing your own grocery shopping!

You might walk into the supermarket for the very first time and be tempted to fill your basket with all your favourite treats. Don't get us wrong, we love a treat! But we also like to make food shops as long-lasting and affordable as possible.

When you first arrive to Halls, your cupboard and fridge will need filling with food that'll keep you going for that first busy week of settling in.

When it comes to grocery shopping, try to plan some meals beforehand and buy ingredients that will stretch across different meals e.g. eggs can be used for breakfast, lunch and even dinner.

Is cooking totally new for you? You're not alone! Check out our getting started in the kitchen top tips!

Here's our suggestions on what you can buy to start filling those cupboards on your very first food shop:

·       Small loaf of bread

·       Eggs

·       Milk

·       Cereal

·       Cheese (already grated)

·       Pasta / noodles

·       Sauce e.g. pesto, tomato base sauce

·       Snacks for on the go e.g. breakfast bars

·       Tins e.g. soup, beans

·       Salt & Pepper or your other favourite seasonings

·       Vegetables – frozen will last longer

·       Tea & coffee

·       Squash

When term starts and you find your feet with your new weekly schedule, you'll likely learn when is best to shop for you and how many meals to buy at a time. Always be sure to buy products with longer expiry dates and try to write a list before you go shopping to avoid overspending.

READ NEXT: TIPS ON AVOIDING FOOD WASTE IN HALLS