Whether you’re saving up for a big purchase, building your emergency fund, or simply enjoy growing your savings account, frugal shopping is your answer.
By becoming a smart shopper, you can stretch your budget and save money without giving up shopping. The best part is, saving money on everyday purchases doesn’t take any special training or skills, all you need is a desire to save and a few shopping tips!
Read on to learn how to save money with every purchase, big or small.
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Avoid the Store When You Can
If going to the store when you need an item is your first choice, it’s time to make it you’re last. Unless you need the item right away, shopping online is a much better option.
This will give you more variety in terms of price, and you have a better chance of finding the item used or even free! People offer items for free on sites like Freecycle, Craiglist, and canadianfreestuff.com every day.
Time Your Purchases
One of the best smart shopping tips we can give you is to time your purchases. Again, buying things on impulse is the worst thing you can do.
Instead, when an impulse strikes, write it down. You can then wait until the item goes on sale or you’re able to use couponing to get it at a discount.
And when you make a wish list instead of making a purchase, you might also find that you don’t really want the item after all.
Buy Refurbished or Dent and Scratch
When you’re buying large ticket items such as electronics and appliances, two types of products are going to be your best friend: refurbished and dent and scratch.
With electronics, buying refurbished products is a great way to save hundreds on your purchase. You can also look for open-box items, which are in perfect condition, but because the box was opened, the store can no longer sell it for full price.
As for appliances, always ask to see the dent and scratch section. Your washing machine might have a dent on the side, but if it’s against the wall or the dryer, who’s going to see it?
Don’t Overlook Cash-Back Opportunities
Does your credit card company or store membership come with cash-back opportunities? Take advantage of them!
If not, there are shopping portals like Rakuten that will give you cash-back points with every purchase you make through affiliate links. When combined with clipping coupons, you’ll save money and get a bonus deposit in your bank account every time you shop!
Save Money Without Sacrifice With Frugal Shopping
Everyone has to scrimp and save now and then, but there’s no reason to cut out shopping altogether.
No matter what you’re shopping for, these frugal shopping tips can help. You’ll be able to save money every time you shop, stretching your money further and keeping your wallet healthy.
Looking for more money-saving tips and hacks? Be sure to check out our blog!
