We make a list every single time we do our grocery shop. If I didn't have a list, I would spend more buying things that I hadn't planned on buying and I would totally forget things I needed. I've tried putting the list on my iPod but it was so inconvenient pulling it in and out of my purse or worrying about dropping it. I like just an old paper list. We also plan our meals out for the week so I know exactly what I need, I would highly recommend this!