Strategy #5: Consume wisely.
Do you comparison shop for the lowest prices on consumer products and services? Aside from saving you money, comparison-shopping can help put the brakes on impulsive spending habits. Especially for non-food items, compare prices for at least three different product brands or services. This practice also helps educate you on different product features.
Here are some additional guidelines for wise consumption:
- Shop at a grocery store, not at a convenience store where prices are generally higher.
- Match coupons with store discounts to (at least) double your savings.
- Negotiate prices for big-ticket items (like used cars).
Check out www.frugalcorner.com for links to sites on transportation, cooking, recreation, cleaning, recycling, repairing, and more that promote smart spending and simple living. Visit www.wow-coupons.com for an assortment of online retail, grocery, and restaurant coupons.