- Check ALL of the grocery ads every week. Sometimes I will go to three different grocery stores in one week to buy their sale items. I try not to make a special trip but stop at each store when I’m in that area anyway.
- Stock up when often-used items are on sale. If something is on sale at a great price and it’s something I use often, then I’ll stock up on it while I can get it at a bargain. For example, if I can get cereal half price then I’ll buy two or three boxes. If chicken breasts are on sale for 99c/pound, then I’ll buy several packages and freeze most of it. If it’s a large package, then I will separate it into two or three smaller packages.
- Buy store brands. For the most part, store brands are just as good as name brands. Through trial and error, though, I learned which items need to be the name brand.
- Cut out coupons! Remember stores other than grocery stores will take coupons. (such as Walmart and Target) Check and see if they do. Also, try to find stores that double and triple coupons. Remember, it defeats the purpose to buy something just because it’s on sale. If it’s a huge bargain and you don’t need the item, donate it to a food pantry, benevolent center, etc.
- Plan your errands! In order to save gas, group your errands according to general areas. For example, I try to stop by a certain grocery store because it’s on my way home. Or I go to Sam’s Club, Target, and the bank on the same trip because they’re close to each other.
- Re-use paper towels that are barely used. I save paper towels that I’ve dried clean hands on or towels that are barely used. I let them dry and then store them in a pretty dish or canister. Whenever there is a spill, I use those paper towels. Why get a brand new towel just to clean up a messy spill off the floor?
Six Tips for Saving Money
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