Saving Grocery Money In Tough Economic Times
Let's face it, times are tough and it's not getting any easier. The economic downturn has affected almost everyone from all around the country.
There are some strategies you can use to stretch those dollars at your local grocery stores. Every little bit adds up, and in no time you'll be adding up the savings!
Strategy #1...Shop around! Everyone has their favorite store they like to shop... Maybe they have the friendliest cashiers, the best selection of produce, or are just down the road from work. But it pays to take a look at the other stores in your area. Sit down on Sunday (or the best day for food ads in your area) for a few minutes with a cup of coffee (that you got on sale of course) and browse through the ads in the paper or on-line. Circle or create an on-line shopping list of the best deals at each store for the items you use or intend to use soon. Compare the prices and make a shopping plan for the week. One or two extra stops a week in your travels can add up to some big savings! Don't put all your eggs in one basket, so to speak!
Strategy #2...Stock up on sale items when you can! Finding a great deal is the first step! If you find a great sale on your favorite soda that you buy weekly, don't pick up one or two 2-liters, pick up as many as you can afford or have room to store until the next sale. If you have pantry or freezer space, stock it up with sale items and you won't have to buy it at full price next week. This will also cut back on the "emergency store runs" when you are out of a staple item or Have Nothing For Dinner!
Strategy #3...Use Coupons Wisely! Some say that coupons are a waste of time and not worth the effort. I can't disagree more! Learn the coupon policies for your local stores and use them to your advantage. Some stores will double or even triple coupons up to different dollar amounts. Combine coupon savings with sale prices and many times you can get items for half price, pennies on the dollar, or even free! Who says there's no such thing as a free lunch? There can be if you use the right coupons at the right store, at the right time!
We always have coupon auctions available to the savvy shopper on eBay!