We all could use some
help when it comes to saving money. That odd
trip to the store for a sweater that results
in a new wardrobe, or a trip to buy a new
phone and we walk out with a phone, an
answering machine, and a digital camera.
These things happen, but adopting some
frugal spending tips can make saving instead
of impulse spending the norm.
Don’t shop on payday. This is when you have the most money. You haven’t paid
the bills or put money away for savings. In error, we believe that we have
more money at our discretion than we really have. At the end of the shopping
trip, we are a few hundred dollars in the hole and a bill goes without being
paid.
Don’t shop for groceries on an empty stomach. This is a universal rule. It
never fails; if you shop when you are hungry you can be talked into buying
anything. The shopping list goes out the window and so does the grocery
budget for the month. Shopping when hungry could also cause you to stop for
fast food on the way home because you can’t wait to fix something to eat.
Visit thrift stores and consignment shops. This works for kids when they are
babies and toddlers. These stores have beautiful clothing that is in
excellent condition. All it takes is a little searching to find a treasure
or two at a fraction of the cost. Name brand clothing can be found here
also. Thrift stores are a good alternative to “hand-me-down” clothing for
younger kids.
Buy in bulk only if it is something that you need. Buying everything in bulk
is not necessary. Some bulk prices have a higher unit price than buying a
couple of boxes of cereal or baby formula. Carrying a calculator to the
store with you can aid in figuring up which is the best buy. Join a shopping
warehouse if you frequently buy bulk items.
Ask for a rain check. Some stores don’t give them for certain sale items,
but it doesn’t hurt to ask. A rain check can save you money. Don’t buy a six
dollar case of water if you can get it for two dollars with a rain check.
Buy up to the limit you are allowed to purchase and stock up.
Bargain shop when looking for services. There’s no rule that says you have
to go with the first plumber that you call. All companies don’t charge the
same amount. Checking two or three places will give you a good idea of how
the prices stack up. Choose the one with the most services for the lowest
price. If you are not sure, ask a friend who may have had the same need that
you do now.
Purchase gifts throughout the year. Don’t wait until right before the
holidays or someone’s birthday. Finding gifts throughout the year saves
money. Sales after Christmas are the perfect time to find all sorts of
merchandise that would make good gifts for the following Christmas. Store
your gifts in a cabinet for that purpose so that you are never without
something to choose from for gift giving.
A few frugal spending tips can save a lot of money. It takes a conscious
effort to start, but once you get the hang of it, it will become second
nature.
Recommended Reading
Debt Free
In Three
Thanks to this guide complete with
worksheet and personal coaching, my family
and I will be complete debt free in 42
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in full). The principles taught in this
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See for yourself.
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