When you move to an unfamiliar place, with unfamiliar brands, the amount of marketing you are bombarded with every single day will suddenly become obvious and overwhelming. In your hometown most marketing fades into the background of your subconscious, like your toothbrush. You know it’s there but you don’t notice it everytime you walk into the bathroom. 

My first grocery shop in a foreign country felt like someone dumping a shipping container of toothbrushes on me. Even though the information was in English the sensory overload was overwhelming. 

Here’s some strategies you can use to make grocery shopping easier:

Easy at Eye Level

Items are arranged on grocery store shelves strategically and brands are charged large premiums for prime position. Anything around the middle of the shelf, such as at chest and eye level, is the most expensive and that’s usually where the conglomerates, with the most financial backing, sit. This is almost guaranteed to be a popular choice and relatively trustworthy. Doesn’t mean this product will be the highest quality or even that it will be the best tasting but it gives a ‘herd mentality’ peace of mind when faced with a wall of competitors. 

Copy Others

Grocery shop at the busiest times of the day. Right after work hours and weekends are perfect. Stand back from the shelves as you search for the items you need, this will give you a wider view around you. Watch what brands other people pick up and when they walk away grab the same thing.

Beginner Dinners First

You need to eat but that doesn’t mean it has to be Michelin star meals. For the first couple of weeks stick with simple stuff, such as sandwiches, and slowly incorporate more ingredients. A short grocery list is more manageable and makes cooking easier too. And if you see something that reminds you of home, get it! It’s nice to have some comfort food after a long day or when homesickness hits. 

Feeling overwhelmed is temporary and these tips aren’t meant to be used forever. Every city has a specialty and trying new foods is a huge part of learning to love your new home.