The Real Deal: Inflation and how to change buying habits to lower your bills

Feeding our families is a challenge with grocery costs that don’t seem to be coming down any time soon. According to a recent study, almost 40% of people are either cutting back, buying generic brands or shopping at less expensive retailers.

Shopping expert Trae Bodge says people are changing their shopping habits when it comes to buying clothing, food and more.

“You love clothes and every season you buy a few things and maybe you're more of a Michael Kors consumer, you may turn to the Gap or even an off brand, a lower priced brand like an H&M, or even look for clothes at Walmart. You know, people are making that kind of adjustment in all sorts of things,” says Bodge.

Out of necessity, shoppers are trying store brands to save and are realizing many of those products are made in the same factories as the name brands.

“I am seeing a lot of people flocking to lower priced stores for their grocery shopping as well. So many Walmarts and Targets have large grocery availability and so I would definitely do that. And then you may not even think about this, but your local dollar store may have groceries, even fresh produce like a Family Dollar. Those stores are really kind of kicking it up a notch and they're accommodating that consumer who is kind of moving away from their grocery store and looking to save money at the dollar store.” says Bodge.

When it comes to clothes, you need to be resourceful and shop your own closet before heading to the store.

“Sometimes we forget what we have and so it's good, you know, when the seasons change, for example, is a great time to do this. Pull out all your clothes and evaluate what you have. Maybe you forgot that something's been way in the back of the closet or you haven't worn something in a while. Put that item on and see how you can style it differently,” says Bodge.

Consider shopping second-hand when it comes to everything from furniture, clothing and sports gear to save more.