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Tip #1 Shop Online If you shop online not only do you save money on fuel,
but you can save time. Time is money in this fast paced world. Check out sites like AnyCodes.com for coupons codes and
save even more. You’ll be surprised at by how many major online retailers offer discounts. Another advantage of online shopping is that you’ll
often find items your local stores don’t carry. Last year I missed out on a Black Friday deal at Walmart. Two weeks
later I found the same camera at their site at the same price with a carrying case thrown in. After ordering, it arrived in
just a couple of days.
Tip #2 Never Pay Full Price for Anything
You may be thinking that I’m
kidding, but I’m not. If you see clothing you like, it will go on sale in a week or two for 40% off. You should take
it as a good hint that it wasn’t worth the full price to begin with. Clothing stores are notorious for this gimmick.
The only one I’ve seen that doesn’t do that is JC Penney and only now that they have their new policy. Every day
you get a discount. Look
at the clearance racks for bargains. I got a pair of jeans last year at K-Mart for a dollar. At the end of the season, many
stores will mark prices down as much as 75% off.
Tip #3 Only Buy Groceries When They Are on Sale
Grocery items are the same as
clothing. Never pay full price. The only exception is fresh produce, milk, and bread or anything else that is perishable.
Do not overdo it on the produce either. I’ve seen more of this thrown away than any other item. The only grocery item I’ve never seen
on sale is Chef Boyardee Spaghetti sauce. I don’t know why that is and of course my husband likes this brand. Stock
up on the sale items that you use on a continual basis. You can save more money stocking up on food that you know you will
use eventually. Inflation is rising faster than the interest rates being paid in savings accounts. Of course you are going to need a system to organize
all of those canned goods and items in the freezer. Be sure to rotate your stock, so the oldest is always in the front of
the shelf. Do the same with the freezer.
Tip #4 Use a List and Stick to It
Write out a list of all the items
you really need. Only buy items that aren’t on your list if they are sale itmes you know you use on a regular basis
and will need again in the near future. Two shirts purchased at a sale price won’t be a bargain at all if the person
needs a larger size later on.
Tip #5 Don’t Use Your Charge Card
Only use debit cards or cash,
so you don’t spend more money than you have. Even if you see a real bargain, it isn’t if you have to pay 17% interest
or more later.
Tip #6 Comparison Shop
You should comparison shop. Look
at the ads that arrive in your local paper. Buy big items where they are offered at the best price. Don’t drive to save
nickels and dimes unless it makes sense. Gas can cost more than you save.
Buy classic clothing that will be in style for years. As long as you don’t
change sizes, many of these items will last for years. The latest fashions will be in style for just a year and just aren’t
worth it. If you think you must have them, spend the money on accessories that don’t cost as much.
Tip #8 Don’t Shop When You are Feeling Down
Don’t shop when you are
feeling down. This is the most tempting time to buy something just to make you feel better. It will only last for a few minutes
and you’ll be right back to feeling down again.
Tip #9 Buy Used
Find clothing at thrift stores and yard sales
when possible. At stores like Goodwill, the Salvation Army and others you can find items at about 75% off the regular retail
price. At garage sales you’ll do even better than this.
Tips #10 Shop Around for Deals
When purchasing things like internet
service, television service and similar services be sure to check out special offers online. All of these companies offer
specials.
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