You've probably read articles about how to save money on groceries. They tell you to have a list and sticking to it, use coupons, go to discount membership stores (like Sam's Club), shop sales and stock up when things are cheap. All of this works, but are less common ways too. Here a few of them.
Store loyalty cards
"Loyalty Cards" many grocery stores promote give members special prices on various items. So much you know and it does save you money on your groceries. But it can cost you money and privacy at some stores. Some grocery chains have sold your purchase information. Sickness Insurers have been some of the buyers.
What does this mean? You can not smoke, but suppose you buy cigarettes for your friend or neighbor. If they are purchased using a card with your name on it, you pay more for insurance as a result. No matter what information you put on the application, the card still works, so be John or Jane Doe. At least put your middle name as your first, or use a different spelling.
When you have a membership card, keep it in your wallet or purse so you do not miss it. Depending on what you buy, you get 10% or more of your total bill, and sometimes they have special offers to members so that you can stock up on something you use regularly. Some maps are also good for one rebate per gallon gasoline at many stations.
Forget Coupons
Coupons sometimes work, but they are almost always name-brand products. Name-brand Saltine crackers cost $ 3.29 as we write this while it was only $ 1.29 for store brand, we just bought. A 50-cent coupon still leaves most expensive twice as expensive. Often the same crackers are in different boxes, with a store label for one and a fire mark of the second, try to see if the quality is equal (the $ 1.69 ones we tried were terrible, while the $ 1 29 them taste good).
Coupons rarely save you enough money to make a product cheaper than other brands that are available. An exception are some pharmacies that carry out groceries and have really good coupon deals. They are willing to lose money on certain products to draw customers into the store. When they are half-price olives, nuts or canned goods, stock up.
Watch for mistakes
Error calling your order is common and almost never in your favor. The most common reason is sale prices that were never introduced into the computer system. Keep an eye on this register and have any errors corrected on the spot. Otherwise you can spend three dollars in gas to go get your two U.S. dollars back later in the day.
Do not Bring Children
Teach your children to be smart shoppers is a great idea, but most of the time they should be left home. They grab things and beg. Perhaps you give in to their demands less than most parents, but why torture them and make shopping more stressful for you? It is almost certain that you save money on groceries if you do not bring children.
Please note Unit prices
Check the price per unit tags to find the best deals on each item. Larger sizes were typically less expensive per ounce in the past, but this is changing. Many grocery stores now have the major items on a higher piece prize - possibly an attempt to trick you. Do math.
Eat before you shop
Perhaps the easiest way how to save money on groceries is to eat before you go to the grocery store. Not only will you buy less than if you're hungry, but you'll probably buy healthier foods as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment