How To Save Money
Money Saving Tips - How To Save Money In 2009
Disclaimer: Xenite.Org is not affiliated with the companies mentioned in this article. Specific companies are mentioned to illustrate the principle of saving money and your actual results may vary. Be careful when shopping and know what you are paying for.
Tip 5: Buy expensive merchandise and save money
TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross ... you know the names. And you know these stores pick up extra merchandise from higher priced stores when they change out inventory. You can buy high quality clothes, accessories, and toiletries, and other merchandise at half or less of the original retail price. When these items go on clearance you save even more money. The only drawback is you're buying last season's (or last year's) merchandise. But if you can live with being a season to a year behind people who have more money than you, at least you won't look like you're shopping at cheap stores. Find out where these types of stores are in your area and then map a route for checking their clearance and discounted items.
Look for post-season sales. Experienced shoppers know you can buy clothing and special seasonal merchandise as much as 75% off if you wait until the new season's inventory is brought in. Stores need to move the last of their stock out. Some seasonal items can be worn or used out of season.
Tip 6: Share gas discounts and save money
Do you shop at a grocery store that offers special discounts on gas after you have reached a purchase threshold? Take a second vehicle to the gas station and keep the pump running when you fill your tank. You can get the discount on two tanks of gas. Keep in mind that some stores may object if you bring all your friends, so do this in moderation.
Do you have a Sam's Club, CostCo, or other members-only shopping card. You cannot lend your card to your friends and family but you can borrow their cars and go buy gas for them using your club card. They may be able to help you out in other ways.
Tip 7: Share discount cards and save money
Did you buy a discount card for a book store or other retailer. Usually you have to buy over $100' worth of merchandise within a period of time to earn back the cost of the card. Why not pool purchases with your friends and save some money for everyone? You can make it work by getting four friends to chip in $5 each for a $25 membership. You should break even when each of you has bought about $25 in merchandise.
If you and several friends have rewards cards for restaurants, get together once a week and swap cards. You can vary your dining choices and still rack up points. Make sure you can use a friend's card without having to pretend to be that friend.
Tip 8: Save money by NOT buying special deals
Nothing breaks a budget faster than trying to save money by buying great deals. If you don't normally buy a product because you don't use it, buying that product when it goes on sale is a waste of money. The same principle is true for coupons. Most manufacturers raise the prices of their products enough that even with coupon savings you may be paying more than for similar generic or store-brand products.
Stocking up on special offer merchandise may seem to make sense when you see the 10-for-1 price, but where are you going to put all that stuff? Be sure you have a plan before you start spending money. As much as possible, share the savings with other people. If you cannot form a consensus on when to buy a "great deal", it may not be a great deal after all. Learn to pass up some of those great savings -- that will save you even more money.
