Food can eat away at ones ability to save money, but this does not need to happen. Planning out menus in advance and sticking to them can be one of the most effective ways to save money and also has the advantage of saving time on last minute grocery runs and frantic searches for something to fix for dinner. When planning out meals it is often a good idea to plan the menu for an entire week at one time.
While doing the planning keep in mind what seasonal fruits and vegetables are available and how to incorporate the same food into several meals, for example buying a large bag of potatoes and using them for hash browns one morning, scalloped potatoes that night, and baked potatoes for lunch the next day. The whole family can be involved in this by assigning each family member a night where they get to choose the meal, and if old enough, do the cooking.
Ask About Upcoming Sales
If you find something in a store you really want, then ask the cashier if there is going to be a sale soon. Sometimes they will let you know, but if not you can ask how often they have sales and what they typically involve. Taking into account how badly you want the item, as well as how many of them are available, you can decide to hold out for a sale and check back every few days. An added benefit to doing this is that you can often avoid impulse purchases since once you are at home you may decide you really don't need that item after all.
Buy Presents Throughout The Year
Setting aside a space in a closet for storing presents throughout the year is the first step. Then keep an eye out for sales on items that would be good for gift giving. Since you still want the presents to be quality gifts, you may want to make a list of ideas for the people in your life and only purchase items on this list. Some general ideas are to look for photo frames or albums on sale, where you can insert pictures taken or prints purchased, candles and candle holders, warm fleece blankets, or family board games. Purchasing your items in advance allows you plenty of time to find sales and find the items you want without settling for something else.
Give Yourself A Gift Card
There are many ways to save money, but one of my favorite is to purchase a gift card at the locations where I do my grocery shopping and purchase fuel. I figure out how much I have to spend for the month at these locations and then purchase a gift card for that amount. Now I know that I will not spend too much money for the month on these items as long as I do not spend more than is on the gift card.
Finding ways to save money can be rewarding. Using the above tips will help to increase your savings and decrease your spending without feeling a pinch.
