When times are tough, it can be hard to make ends meet and find ways to save. It always seems like the best sales are at the store after you get there, and you can’t find a deal online. As a frugal shopper and money saver, I have collected a lot of tips and tricks over the years to help me save. Here is my quick guide to help you get started saving money.
Think Coupons
I’m sure you’ve all seen television shows where coupon shoppers get thousands of dollars of food and home goods for free. I haven’t quite gotten to that point myself, but I do find ways to save by clipping coupons. Online sites for grocery stores often have coupons you can link to your in store rewards card. I always start there and add all the coupons I need, then check the sale ad. You may go a couple weeks before the coupon product goes on sale but it almost always will.
There are several online coupon websites like coupons.com that you can download and print coupons from to use in store. Some stores, however, won’t take online coupons so check with your individual store for more information. If your grocery store has special coupons only for use in their store, yu can pair it up with a manufacturer’s coupon from online or your newspaper. It may not be thousands of savings but over the year it can really add up.
Browse Online
Many online stores offer special deals through online coupon sites. Retailmenot.com is a website where stores and even restaurants post coupons or coupon codes. Some of them work on your favorite websites and others you can print and take into a brick and mortar store. I like using them for online food ordering service coupons so I can always get the best deal on take out.
Having emails sent to you from different stores can alert you to sales or give you special discounts. If you shop frequently at a particular store, make sure you’re on their mailing list. You can make a folder on your email for them to go directly into so they don’t clog up your inbox but you still get the benefits of the savings.
Clearance Racks
The clearance rack will become your best friend when you try to save money. Everything from clothes to dry groceries to housewares can be found on clearance racks. If you shop mid season, like springtime, the first spring styles that released in January are marked down. That means when the weather is finally cooperating you can scoop up deals that are still in style. Clearance food is often discontinued brands or close to expiration. I like to pick up gum, candy and cereal from discount racks because I use them very quickly. I also like shopping makeup clearance to help me splurge a little on beauty without breaking the bank.
Keeping a budget and sticking to it can help you save even more money. Plan all your bills and finances out, and then start budgeting your money. If you can, try and start a small savings. I began putting just $5 a week in savings until I was able to comfortably add more. With practice, good shopping habits and discipline you too can help save money and build your finances.
