When I get the urge to shop and don't want to spend a lot of money, I go to the dollar store. It's a great way to squelch the urge and I can get a few inexpensive items that I usually need.
By Kim from Franklin Park, IL
I really don't think this is a tip. It's more of a suggestion for all of us to help where we can. I was at Walmart yesterday. I've made it a habit to pick up a shopping cart that's wandering around, and loose in the park lot, to use in the store.
To help save money when grocery shopping or shopping for multiple items anywhere, use a tally counter to keep track of your spending and don't be surprised when you get to the register. Calculators never work for me because I always end up zeroing by mistake...
Only buy products that have good warranties in the first place, and say "No" when a checker offers you an impulse warranty on electronics. If you are afraid that the product will not last past the manufacturers warranty, it's probably not worth buying.
I purchased a special pen which attaches to a lanyard around my neck. I bring it with me when I go shopping to make sure I (a.) cross everything off my list and therefore do not miss anything, and (b.) never lose my pen.
A restaurant supply store is different than a warehouse-type store like Costco. The one I shop at is called Cash and Carry. These allow anyone to purchase without a card. The difference with restaurant supply is that they cater to restaurant owners.
This week we're conducting an experiment in our house. Each weekend, we reluctantly run errands that total $200 or more.
We live in the age of 'Hype'. And we have for so long, the plain unadulterated truth would probably sound strange to us. Even the adjectives we use cannot be taken literally. Have you noticed things that have no weight now come in tons? 'I spent the weekend at the beach and had tons of fun'.
Maybe not a new idea but I think it 's a money saver. Make 2 shopping lists. First is considered a monthly list, in which items like; paper towels, TP, soap and other household items purchased, and a second weekly list for food items only.
To cut down on buying items you already have, create an inventory list for the bathroom, kitchen and pantry. Create two columns.
I always spend less money if I use cash instead of my debit card or check book. An excellent tip that I have used for years is so easy. When I shop...
I have a clean 32 gal trashcan with wheels that I use to transport purchases from the vehicle into the house and nothing falls out in large holes like the wire shopping carts.
When I need to buy dish liquid or any cleaner for that matter, I don't just grab any bottle. I will look at all the bottles on the shelf and pick the one that is the fullest.
I have hated going to the grocery store recently. I keep getting depressed with the high prices! I went today after I went for my morning walk at the track. I continued to listen to my music with one earpiece of my iPod in.
If you get a carryout meal, only to get home and it's not exactly what you ordered, by all means, keep your sales receipt. Stop back in and tell the management about your purchase. They'll most likely make it to your liking.
Write down which items are in which aisle numbers in your grocery store. Then order your shopping list accordingly and you won't find yourself re-tracing your steps a million times.
