You stare at your grocery bill, unsure of how you could have racked up $157 worth of groceries in your meager cart. We know how expensive groceries can be. If you're like us, you're constantly looking for ways to save a few bucks here and there. We've put together some savings tricks for your next trip.

Buy generic
Don't spend the extra money to get the brand name product. Instead, save the money and get the generic. Most likely it's of equal quality. If you just can't stomach Kroger brand peanut butter then you should still splurge for JIF.

Buy in bulk
Shopping in bulk can save you some serious money. Sure, it will take you a while to go through 15 rolls of papertowels, but when it's nearly $1.00 less per item, it makes it worth the storage space in your pantry. Stores like Costco and Sam's Club are great places to purchase food and paper products in bulk; although, they do require an annual fee.

Become a card-carrying member
By signing up for rewards cards, you not only get in-store discounts on products, companies like Kroger will send coupons to your home address, if you provide it. The savings outweigh the hassle of carrying the card. Or you could download the free app Key Ring to keep track of all your reward cards for you.

Clip coupons
Scan through your junk mail for fliers of coupons. It only takes a few minutes to scour them, but it can save you some real cash. Apps like Grocery IQ can offer coupon suggestions based on your shopping list. If you choose to "clip" a virtual coupon, they send you a link in your email to print easily from home.

Strategize
Plan your grocery shopping around double-coupon days (if your store offers them). Also, combining coupons with store specials can make for really great deals.

By purchasing generic items and those in bulk, signing up for rewards programs, clipping coupons, and strategizing, you can lower your grocery bill significantly. Happy shopping!