Sometimes it isn’t all about the coupons and sales but where in the store that you shop. Did you know that you can often find two of the exact same things (or at least similar things) in a store such as Target or Walmart and yet pay two different prices, depending on the section in which you find the item? Doing a little creative thinking can often save you some money.
Similar use items
When shopping for something first think about whether or not it might have other uses. Is it a specialty item? Are there other items that might do the job as well? If you really think about it, you might realize that there is something else that will work for much less.
One example is a window squeegee. There are at least three types of squeegees in a standard mart type store. There is one for the car, one for home windows and one for cleaning the shower doors or bathroom tile. If you compare prices, you’ll find that the least expensive option is one for home windows, followed by the one for the bathroom and topped by the one for the car. Since they can all work equally well, why not buy the least expensive even if you need it for your car?
Other thoughts for similar use items: Cookie scoop verses expensive gourmet mini ice cream scoop and witch hazel in the first aid section instead of pore toner in the skin care section.
Same item, different marketing
Sometimes you can have the exact same item that is packaged differently, according to how the product is marketed. Take simple ice cream toppings. In a display that is positioned in the freezer section, you’ll find all sorts of interesting ice cream toppings, such as sprinkles and chocolate syrup. But head over to the baking aisle for cheaper sprinkles and the drink or condiment section for your chocolate syrup.
Other thoughts for same item, different marketing include ethnic foods such as spices, tortillas and sauces, sesame seeds, raisins and canned beans and vegetables.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.
Favorite Deal Websites:
Related Articles:
How to Shop at the Goodwill Outlet Store
Your Thrift Store Purchases Can Affect Your Credit Cards
A Frugal Secret: Bakery Thrift Stores
Thrift Store Bargain Worth $250,000!
Common Prices for Yard Sale Items
Yard Sale Shopping Myth: Arriving Early
Finding the Best Garage Sales 2
Finding the Best Garage Sales 2
Yard Sale Frustration: Has This Happened to You?
12 Ways Staying Home Saves Money
Overmyminutes.com: Keep Track of Your Cell Phone Usage
Simple Attempts at Money Stewardship
Money Saving Steps to Take When You Are Laid Off