You know, I think we've been brainwashed into believing that grocery shopping can be done only in one place and at one time. Well, I think that's just bunk....
During the course of any typical day, I know that I pass at least 2 different drug stores, 2 different grocers and a discount store - and I'm just talking about the major chains. Also, that's just on the way to and from work - 8 minutes from home.
If you take into account running errands, making a trip to mom's house, or even church, you can add 2 more locations of each drug store and possibly at least one of the major grocers.
Now you may ask, "SO WHAT? I'd rather get all of my shopping done at once and then be done with it." I say this -- shopping a little smarter can help the budget go a little farther. Look for specials on items that you normally buy at stores that you normally don't visit. By doing so, you can save hundreds (maybe more) of dollars over the course of a year.
Here's an example of stretching your milk money - even if you don't save anything else. At Publix, the store we tend to frequent the most often, a gallon of Publix brand milk is $2.89, and MacArthur brand (a South Florida dairy) milk is upwards of $5 or $6. Just across the street at CVS, MacArthur milk is regularly priced for $2.99 per gallon and a sale right now gives the buyer a price of $2.79 and adds a bonus $1 of their EVB (Extra Value Bucks) for use with a future purchase.
With just that one grocery item, I can save apporximately $8-$10 this month.
Multiply smart buys like that by three or four items, and add coupons, and you're on your way to a smarter budget.
Blessings,
Scott
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Agreed. I clip coupons and look at sale ads. Sometimes, I may not need something this week, but, I know that within a week or two, I will. I know the average price and if it is on sale.....why wait until I need it? Buy it on sale (shampoo or hairspray, toilet paper, paper towels, etc). Also, I shop at Costco for some items.
ReplyDelete