Shopping is one of the biggest necessities known to man. Whether it be a loaf of bread or a pair of new shoes, buying usable things is basic human nature. However, most of us are on a fixed budget where we have to decide whether and item is a need or a want. And that is absolutely the worst. We should not have to decide what comes first in our eyes, but we should not buy under an impulsive mind. There's always ways to buy cheaper, never forget that. Also spending on a fixed budget has me like:
Here are eleven tips to find ways to save more money!
1. Coupons.
Coupons should be your best friend. Look in magazines and local newspapers to find the best deal possible.
2. Shop clearance sections.
Every department store and supermarket have some sort of clearance section that allows you to buy marked down prices. When looking for things for a different season (i.e. A winter coat in the summer) expect them to be especially marked down.
3. Shop holiday weekends.
These are basically the best sale weekends! But two get one free or 20% off the whole store is amazing. It allows for easy purchases.
4. Buy clothes for the next season.
It might sound a little dumb, but buying clothes for the next season helps you figure out what you need and what you want. So once the season comes by, you should not have to buy anything else!
5. Off-brand doesn't change the taste or the look! Just the price!
Target and H&M have an amazing outlet of clothes that are sometimes looked down on cause they do not have the tag/logo of other popular brands. But that does not matter. The two companies are some of the most comfortable they can possibly be.
6. Shop online.
Utilize codes to get discounts and make free shipping your best friend. Buying in bulk also can lower the price online; it activates unknown deals. Additionally, you can search on either Google or Bing for secret codes to get special discounts.
7. Special discounts.
College Students! If you use your student ID, the one your institution gives you, it can be used for discounts at retail stores and sometimes fast food areas.
8. Compare prices. Same store, different location.
Say you like that Nike running shirt at the nearest Dick's Sporting Goods. However, it costs about $40. Look at other locations nearby! See if a Marshalls or TJ Maxx carries the same shirt as well.
9. Plan ahead. Know how much you want/need to spend.
Before you head on your trek of a shopping spree, set yourself to a list or price of what you need and how much to spend. And you have to stick to it.
10. Take a friend with you!
Traveling with a friend, especially someone who you trust, allows for another person to keep you accountable on your spending.
11. The store should be your last option.
Don't go until you have to- shopping should be the last resort. If you can find what you need for free, or borrow from a friend, do that first and foremost. Shopping should not always be the first thing to come into your mind.
Shopping isn't a quick process. You have to look and be patient for what you need. And you have to be tough. Stick to your strengths and happy shopping!
