Unemployment is still high. The economy is still stumbling. With that in mind, I thought I would share a few methods I have found really helpful in saving me money. I don’t know about you, but groceries have become my greatest monthly expense and saving a dollar here and there can really add up to big savings at the end of the month.
1) Bring a grocery list but be willing to compromise. Being flexible in what you plan to purchase really helps. That way you can shop the current sales and get the very best bargains instead of being a slave to a grocery list.
2) Know what items are in season. This one simple step can save you a fortune here as prices do fluctuate greatly as items come into season. For instance, strawberries were averaging nearly 20 pesos a kilo a couple of months back but are sitting at around 4-5 pesos a kilo in my neighborhood now.
3) Being aware of special shopping days can save you a tremendous amount of money as well. Several of the larger grocery stores offer special discounted prices on various items different days of the weeks and sometimes they offer specials if shopping between certain hours.
4) Getting to know your neighborhood shops makes a great difference too.
5) Be aware that typically the best deals are to be found in the larger national chains as they have the advantage of purchasing items by the trainload and then distributing them from their own warehouse system.
6) Many groceries offer special shopping days or hours throughout the week (typically in the morning). Many also offer special discount shopping days for senior citizens.
7) Don’t be afraid of store brands. Many stores offer high quality alternative to high priced national brands under their own trademark and often times it is the exact same product in different packaging.
8 ) Buy the Sunday paper. The Sunday papers are full of weekly store circulars detailing all their specials for the week.
9) Keep an eye on the weekly store circular. Many of the larger grocery chains and even some smaller privately owned groceries have sales fliers at the front door and/or signs on the windows showing their current price specials.
10) Clip (and use!) coupons for name brand items. Most groceries have many great coupons available for some really substantial savings. Be sure to look at the wad of paper the checkout person gives you along with your change. Many times there are valuable coupons mixed in with your receipt.
11) Check the store’s website for special discount days.
12) Stock up when things are on sale.
13) Visit multiple stores to get the very best deals. Take the time to learn the best place for fish, for meats, for produce, for wine and beer….
14) Avoid purchasing non-grocery items. Instead buy your items at stores specializing in them which often times offer the very same items at amazing discounts.
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