Tip of the Day 7 August 2009

At the Supermarket

We all want to get our money’s worth when we buy something, especially now. Some of these ideas may take a little extra time at first but once they become a habit the savings quickly add up.

*Before you leave home, make a list of what you need. Buy only what is on the list.
*Plan meals around what you have on hand and then what is on sale each week. Buy fruit and veggies that are in season and locally grown.
* Know your prices. Keep your price book up to date and jot the prices next to the items on your shopping list. Compare shelf prices to your list price and look for cheaper alternatives if necessary.
* Shop around. Go to more than one store to pick up the best bargains.
* Don’t be afraid to try generics. If it’s a new product, try it once. If it’s good then you can add it to your usual brands, if you don’t like it you can just go back to your regular brand.
* Don’t shop every day. Try to shop at the most once a week, once a fortnight is better. Less temptation = less impulse buys and more savings.