With the economy in such an uproar, and the cost of living rising every single day, it is becoming increasingly difficult for many to set aside much of anything these days. With a few helpful hints, you might be able to save a little here and there, and not spend money on what you don’t need, or could live without. Here are three things you should not do if you are wanting to save money.
Convenience Store Shopping – Don’t go! Stay clear away from gas stations except when purchasing gasoline, drug stores except when shopping for prescriptions and other convenience options. Running into the gas station for a gallon of milk can cost you nearly $1.00 more than it would cost to pick it up at the grocery store and even more if you were to get it at a discount store. Everything is heavily priced at gas stations because of the convenience of being able to get it there. Yesterday I saw 2 cases of soda for $7.00 at the local gas station. The same afternoon I saw 2 cases of soda at the grocery store for only $5.00. This morning, I made a trip over to our discount chain and soda was 2 cases for $4.50. Laundry soap also costs much more at convenient stores, purchase at your local discount chain and you will save quite a bit of cash everytime. Don’t fall into the convenience store trap.
Buying in Bulk – Don’t do it unless it truly helps. Our family of seven tends to purchase in bulk whenever we can, because we typically use it. But even I have to admit that there have been times where a bulk purchase has been a total waste of money. Be sure that you will use all of something before purchasing it. Check expiration dates and think about where you will store it and if there is enough room, so that your purchase doesn’t go to waste.
Using Coupons – Don’t use coupons for things you wouldn’t normally buy. Often when we get coupons, we think “What a great deal!” except do you really purchase whatever you are using the coupon for? Trying something out is one thing, but purchasing something you don’t normally buy just because you have a coupon can be a total waste of money. Use coupons wisely and you will be able to save a bundle.
Do you have any money pits or things not to do when trying to save money?
Nicole Humphrey writes articles for the Scrapbooking Blog and for the Frugal Blog. She also guest blogs on a variety of topics. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.
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