How to Shop Economically

Who doesn't enjoy saving a few bucks? In good times and bad, everyone loves a juicy deal that flatters the family budget. Paying full retail, however, for clothes, cars, food, and household goods requires a stout bank account. Sweet deals and coupons abound in newspaper and mail circulars, saving money that can otherwise compliment a 401K, a mutual fund, pay for a vacation or set up a comfortable nest egg.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Daily metropolitan newspaper circulars.
• In-store flyers
• Scissors
• Index card box

How to Shop Economically

1. Keep a organized file of newspaper discount coupons for groceries, clothing, automobile repairs, glasses, and other services and products.
   When entering the store, grab a circular of sales.
   Seek out the specially tagged 'Manager' sales.

2. 

   Pay the membership fee and join a wholesale food club.
   Buy as much as possible in bulk.
   Contact a local sustainable farmer and buy a whole cow or sow and then split it with friends and family.
   Make friends with the butcher, baker, and the produce manager

3. Form or join a neighborhood or family co-op for bulk purchases.
   If buying bulk, be sure there is enough appropriate storage space to protect the integrity of the product.
   Dry goods are cheaper when purchased in larger quantities.

4. Frequent local thrift and second hand stores.
   When shopping, know precisely what type of product and comparison shop.
   Check out and consider scratch and dent opportunities.
   Find a clothing store that carries slightly damaged material.
   Make your own clothing.
   Grow fresh produce in the family garden. It almost free.
   Shop the local Farmers Market

Tips & Warnings

• Going to the store' s web site produce more discount coupons.
• Clip coupons.
• Organize and use them.
• Newspapers have weekly insert ads.
• Shop for food on an empty stomach to prevent impulse purchases.
• Make a friend in the local clothing department store. They will point our the special deals.
• Can seasonal vegetables.
• Make and preserve fresh salsa at the end of the growing season for a winter treat. That applies to all vegetables and fruits.
• Avoid buying designer clothing off the rack.
• Cheap food is of lower quality and often contains health destructive ingredients.
• Do not compromise health and safety for savings.
• Don't buy something just because it is on sale.