With the economy being unstable, we have to find ways
to save our money as the cost of living sky rockets. Below are some great tips that anyone can use to lower
their monthly household budget:
- Buy in Bulk
Buying items in bulk can save you a few extra dollars
over time. The initial output is going to help you save
more in the long run.
You can buy items such as:
- Toilet Paper
- Rice
- Sugar
- Flour
- Cleaning Products etc.
Remember that generic brands are just as effective as
over priced brand name products.
- Properly Inflate Your Tires
Make sure your tires are properly inflated--seriously--
you will save a grip on gas, in the course of a year.
At least, that's what Obama and the people at Michelin
say. Drive the speed limit and save on gas, try to
go 10 miles less per hour.
- Buy Liquor At Duty Free
Whenever you travel buy as much liquor as they allow
and save a bundle later!
- Buy Plane Tickets In Advance
Buying airline tickets at the last minute can be
extremely expensive so plan your trip ahead of
time and purchase your ticket as early as you
possibly can.
Keep your eyes peeled for further airline discounts
when you book early. Shop around online and buy your
ticket as soon as you spot a great deal.
- Clip Coupons
Go through your local newspaper for the flyers, and
plan your shopping based on the specials the grocery
stores are offering. Get as many coupons together
as you can before going shopping.
You can also visit online coupon sites and get their
special discounts.
I'm NOT affiliated but two good site for this is:
http://www.grocerycouponguide.com/
http://www.clipacoupon.com/
Also, compare shopping circulars in the paper.
Sometimes Store B may have things cheaper than
Store A that week.
- Check Your Dollar Store
Dollar stores are popping up everywhere, and offer
most items for $1.00 You can get cleaning products,
canned goods, pasta, sauces, toothpaste, and tons
more for quite cheap. This is an excellent outlet
for savings.
- Look For Specials In Your Grocery Store.
For example, if you buy lunch-meat for sandwiches,
and was planning on getting turkey, look for the
turkey on special. Or, try the ham that's on special
instead.
- Plan Your Meals In Advance
Make a shopping list based on that. I do this every
week and find that when I stick to my list, I save
at least $20-$30 on extra "stuff" I would normally
pick up.
Also do NOT go shopping on a hungry stomach!!
Have a little snack before you go and you won't be
tempted to buy everything in sight cause your tummy
is growling.
- Visit Your Local Butcher Whenever You Can
You would be surprised at how much more meats/seafood
you can get there for the same price you pay at the
grocery store.
- Visit Farmers Markets
If there is a Farmers Market close by, get your veggies
there. It can be dirt cheap to shop there for veggies,
fruits, eggs, bread, and pastries. Farmers markets can
be very cost effective, and you'll be supporting your
local farmer which is a great thing!