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Regular readers of The Vault know that cutting back on our discretionary spending — on things like magazines, CDs, lunches, and lattes — can lead to big savings over time.
For instance, eliminating just one latte a day will save you about $900 a year. Investing those savings in a tax-sheltered RSP would net you more than $20,000 in 15 years (assuming a 6% annual rate of return).
But you can also find extra savings on the essentials — things like groceries, household goods, and toiletries. This involves not so much cutting back as it does using practical smarts. No doubt you’ve developed your own tricks over the years, but here are a few more to consider.
Stock Up
We use things like soap and paper towels every day. And unlike the latest fashions, these things never go out of style and have long shelf lives. Buying these items in bulk or larger sizes can lead to big savings over time. For added savings, stock up when they are on sale.
If you live alone, consider splitting these purchases with a friend. The same goes for everyday items like dishes, bath towels, and linens.
Go Generic
Drug and grocery stores have invested heavily in their own lines and store brands. These products are often just as good as their brand-name counterparts and will help you save cash.
Savvy Shopping Tip
Get to know the regular cost of items such as toiletries, and take advantage of differences in pricing. For instance, you may find better deals on toiletries in grocery stores than in drug stores.
Eye the Shelves
Retailers will often put more expensive items at eye level, so be sure to look for lower-priced products above and below your sight line.
Savvy Shopping Tip
Some products offer price-per-unit information, which makes it easier to make accurate comparisons.
Shop on a Full Stomach
Avoid the temptation to buy groceries when you’re hungry, as you’re less likely to comparison shop and look for deals.
Making a list of what you’ll need before you shop makes it easier to avoid impulse buying. Indeed, some experts say that more than two-thirds of what we buy in grocery stores is unplanned.
Produce Tip
If you’re taking advantage of a sale on fresh produce, reach behind and grab the fresher items, as they’ll last longer. In general, older goods are placed at the front of the display.
Clip Coupons
Another sure-fire way to get a good deal on daily items like groceries is to clip coupons. And don’t forget to go online — many retailers and brand websites offer coupons that you can print out.
Sign up for E-Flyers
Many retailers offer special offers and first dibs on seasonal specials for things like clothes and shoes. It doesn’t cost you anything to sign up, and the deals are often tied to features at your local store.
Loyalty Cards
These programs are a good way to get something back on money you were going to spend anyway. Rack up the reward points and use them to save on future purchases.
These can be as simple as the “buy-10-get-one-free” variety for coffees or greeting cards, or savings on your groceries, gas, or toiletries.
Tip: Don’t Forget to Cash in Reward Points
Had a look in your wallet or purse lately? Have you actually used any of the points you’ve been gathering on your loyalty cards? If you haven’t, you may lose out to “loyalty-card inflation” — where the number of points needed to buy an item increases over time.
Use Gift Certificates
A large number of gift certificates are never redeemed (anywhere from 10% to 25%). If you received any gift certificates in the past year that you filed away, make sure you use them before they expire (usually within six months to a year).
Buy Clothes Off-Season
Need a new winter jacket? Buying a new one at the end of the season can save you a bundle. For the more style-conscious, buying “classics” that never go out of fashion is a good bet.
Buying off-season is a good way to save money for your kids’ clothes — before they become style conscious. Be sure to anticipate their sizes one season out.
Savvy shopping is about getting the most for your money. To make the whole process even more rewarding, put your found money aside for more important things like an emergency fund or a well-needed vacation. Having a short-term goal will help you stay on track and be a smarter shopper.
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