Years ago, if you wanted groceries, your only real option was to go to the grocery store, fill a cart, and wait in the checkout line. Today, there is an alternative approach that is becoming more common: having groceries delivered. Grocery delivery does cost a little more than shopping in-person, and that may initially keep you from choosing delivery as an option. But in fact, grocery delivery is usually worth that small extra fee. Here's why.

You won't be tempted to buy things you don't need.

Have you ever gone to the grocery store with a list of 10 or 15 things you need, only to come home with 20 or 25 things, including several you really don't need? This isn't something that happens with grocery delivery. You order what you need, and you don't have to face the in-store temptation to buy extras. This can save you more money than the delivery fee. And it's also better for your waistline.

You won't have to use gas or pay a transportation fee.

If you own a vehicle, then you need to pay for gas to drive to the grocery store. There is also wear and tear on the vehicle to consider. If you don't have your own vehicle, then you will need to pay for public transportation or a rideshare in order to get to the grocery store. The cost of transportation to and from the grocery store may be the same, or nearly the same, as the cost of having your groceries delivered. 

You'll save time.

Going to the grocery store is not usually the quick task you think it will be. You have to drive there, spend time searching for items in the store, wait in line at the checkout, load your car, and drive home. This can often take an hour or more, and that's if you live somewhat close to the store! Having groceries delivered is so much faster. It takes a few minutes to click the items you need in the grocery app. If you're a busy working professional or you have a family to care for, the precious minutes you save by ordering groceries can make it well worth the small fee you pay for the service.

Having groceries delivered does cost more, but the fee is not the only thing to consider. You'll save money on gas, and you'll save time and headaches in other ways, too.