Things You'll Need:
- Internet
- Pocket size expandable folder
- Deep Freezer (Optional)
- Plastic Freezer Baggies
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Step 1
To keep track of all grocery sales and clearance items in your area, visit a site called www.thegrocerygame.com - it keeps a list of all sale or discounted items (advertised or unadvertised) in your area. It is only $1 for a 4 week trial.
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Step 2
Organize coupons in a pocket size expandable file. You can then categorize them as: Frozen, Dry Goods, Dairy, Toiletries etc. Keep it in your car or purse. You never know when you will need that handy coupon.
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Step 3
Make a list of the things you need before heading to the store. Shop promptly for the items on the list and don't casually browse through the inner aisles to prevent impulse spending.
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Step 4
Never grocery shop on a hungry stomach! - When you are hungry you are more susceptible to impulse purchases that can hike up your final total by up to 15%. Fill up on healthy snacks before heading to the store.
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Step 5
Don't buy your groceries with credit or debit cards. - Go to the ATM and put a set dollar amount in an envelope to spend at the grocery store. This will further deter impulse shopping and prevent you from over spending on your allocated food budget.
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Step 6
Don't buy toiletries or cosmetics from the grocery store - Grocery stores may mark up non-food items by up to 20%+ to help compensate on lower price margins in grocery sales. Buy your toiletries at discounted drugstores or mass retailers like Wal-mart or Target.
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Step 7
Don't be afraid to shop generic on certain items - Generic brands are usually of good quality depending on the item. As long as the ingredient and nutritional value isn't compromised, generic is a good value.
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Step 8
If you have a family and like to shop in bulk, invest in a deep freezer. Buy meat in bulk from Costo or Sams and divide portions in the plastic freezer bags before freezing.
