I have been a bargain shopper my whole life. My parents aren’t really sure why – I certainly didn’t learn it from them! From making the most of my back to school clothing budget as a teen to finding free entertainment for my girls now, I’ve learned a little something along the way. I can write dozens of articles each month and share money saving tips every day, but here’s a big secret for you – it all boils down to the same, basic advice.
Plan ahead.
That’s it – really.
From matching coupons & sales at the grocery store to a weekly menu that keeps you out of the drive thru, a little advance planning goes a long way. Buy your winter clothes at the beginning of the spring, store school supplies until August and save your money until that cute pair of shoes gets marked down. Everything goes on sale eventually. I promise.
However, in the interest of full disclosure, here are a few of my favorite insider secrets:
Target clearance has a pattern & fixed schedule. Holiday clearance goes to 50% off immediately after the big day, followed by 75% then 90% off. The Valid Dates on the sale tag will reveal when the next discount starts. If you want to stock up on decorations without breaking the bank, pick through what’s left at the best discount. For year round clearance, when a price ends in the number 4 (i.e. $3.64) that is the absolute lowest price before they “salvage” the item. You’ll find it for sale at Goodwill for triple the price next month.
Costco membership cards may be used by 2 people – and you do not need to share an address. Split the cost of a membership with a friend, and you’ll both save big! Just keep in mind buying bulk isn’t always the best deal. Coupons & sale items often create the best value from smaller items. However, splitting a huge bag of apples, sharing office supply costs and dividing warehouse packages of paper goods can make it affordable.
Most grocery stores have a clearance or manager mark down section. There is typically nothing wrong with the items, but store policy often dictates that merchandise be moved before an arbitrary deadline. To get around it, department managers will deeply discount items to make room for new merchandise. Don’t forget to check the meat & produce department for deals you can freeze or work into the evening’s menu plan.
Hopefully, these tricks will help you on your quest for bargains. What other shopping secrets have you discovered?
Heather Sokol is the married mother of 3 beautiful, active girls. Each week, she shares miscellaneous mom secrets and her tricks for doing it all inexpensively.{ 1 comment }
