Photo: SergioBarbieri / Flickr

Ever feel like it is cheaper to eat out than do the weekly shopping and that all your money is going into groceries? A simple thing like changing where, when and how you shop can save you a lot of money in the long run. In these difficult financial times every penny counts so make sure you know how to save your hard-earned money. Avoid tempting clothing stores, use coupons regularly and shop wisely and you will definitely count your blessings and your savings.

Coupons and specials

You definitely can save money by using free coupons that come in the mail or in magazines. Specials and ‘two-for-one deals’ also help you to save money and buying things like toilet paper and dishwashing liquid in bulk is always a good idea. When using coupons or buying things on special, make sure the items are ones you would normally buy and you’re not just buying them because it sounds like a good deal.

Plan your shopping

Always plan your shopping and you will end up spending less. Shop for a week or two at a time and write lists on exactly what you need to buy – this will help you to buy the necessities without wasting money on products that will just go off. By shopping once a week you will also end up saving money on petrol and parking. Try and shop just after you have eaten – if you shop while hungry you will end up buying goods that you don’t actually need.

Shop wisely

Choose where you shop by shopping by product. Shops that specialise in fruits and veg or farmers markets will often carry better deals on these goods, while you are most likely going to find a better deal on a good cut of meat from your local butcher. Try and stay away from shopping at big centres as other shops can distract you and you will no doubt end up spending more money every time you simply go to pick up bread or milk. Try and visit shops that are open during the day as after-hours shops are always more expensive.

Tags: saving money, shopping