Thrifty Shopping Rules to Live By

Shopping for discounts takes planning, know-how, and skill. How can you become an expert at discount shopping? The following tips and tricks can help you get started on the path to frugal living.

1. Never Pay Retail

The one thing that all thrifty shoppers have in common is an aversion to retail prices. Why pay full price when you can always hold out for a better deal? The number one rule of discount shopping is to avoid paying retail price for items that regularly go on sale. Sure, you might end up buying bread or canned beans at standard store prices, but you should always shop around. If it costs too much, don’t buy it. You might have to wait awhile, but it will inevitably go on sale at an unbeatable price.

2. Learn to Love Coupons

Have you ever noticed how some people seem embarrassed about using coupons? Maybe these people simply haven’t figured out how much money coupons can save. Clipping coupons can add up to big savings to major discounts on everything from household products to groceries, so learn to embrace the power of the coupon.

3. Find the Best Sources for Coupons

Start by perusing your local paper each day (especially on Sundays) and clip out any coupons that you might use. Sign up for coupon offers from companies such as Val-Pak and others in order to get in on other great deals. Magazines and websites are other great places to find coupons for products that you use every day. Discount shopping with coupons shaves money off the products you buy regularly and can significantly reduce your yearly grocery bill.

4. Never Buy What You Can’t Afford

Sure, you might really want that new car, but should you buy it? One of the biggest discount shopping rules is that you should only buy the items you can truly afford. If you don’t have the financial reserves to afford that extra payment each month, either make due with what you already have or look for options within your price range. Being a thrifty shopper sometimes means making sacrifices, but these will ultimately pay off in the long run in increased savings and greater peace of mind.

5. Learn How to Spot a Great Deal

Stores often advertise specials and sales that aren’t really all they’re cracked up to be. Always take the time to carefully consider a purchase before you make a final decision. Pay attention to when local stores have their biggest sales. These great sales usually occur after major holidays or at the end of the season, making it a great time to shop ahead. Compare prices and set limits on how much you are willing to spend for certain items. By practicing this discount shopping rule, you won’t be roped in by sales gimmicks.

6. Know Your Prices

How will you know how to spot a great deal if you don’t know what the regular prices for various items are? One of the fastest ways to become a discount shopping pro is to understand how much the things you buy usually cost. This may take some time and effort, but it will seem like second nature after only a short time. Start by paying attention to in-store prices and read through the ads in your Sunday paper to get a feel for how much the items your buy usually cost.

7. Plan, Plan, Plan

Experienced discount shoppers may make it seem effortless, but it does require planning. Always have an idea of what you are looking for when you enter a store. Use the Internet and other resources to research big purchases beforehand so you’ll be well armed with information when you get to the buying phase. By planning your shopping excursions, you’ll be better equipped to find the greatest deals and avoid last minute impulse buys.

8. Learn the Art and Science of Haggling

Make those psychology classes you took back in freshmen year of college pay off by using a few persuasion techniques to talk your way into a better price. Many people may not realize that no price is set in stone. It may seem forward to ask for a better price, but you’ll never know whether a discount is possible unless you’re willing to ask.

9. Remember that Patience is a Virtue

As many discount shoppers soon find, saving money sometimes means having to wait to buy the things you want. Of course, you really want that coveted item right now (and you probably deserve it, too!), but in order to find the greatest deals, it pays to be patient and wait for a price drop, sale, or killer coupon. Waiting can be difficult, but your patience will ultimately be well rewarded.

10. Keep Your Goals in Mind

Discount shopping can become frustrating if you lose sight of your goals. Ask yourself why you are trying to save money. Maybe you’re trying to build up your savings, or perhaps you’re trying to get out of debt. Whatever you goals, take the time to reaffirm your commitment and motivation.

Discount shopping can save you thousands of dollars every year. By taking advantage of hot sales, using coupons wisely, and setting financial goals, you can make the most of what you have. Start today by making small changes that will get help get you started on the path to a frugal lifestyle.

_{Photo courtesy Deb Walker}