Whether you're a student saving for law school or you're trying to feed and clothe your family of eight, even money for essentials can be tight. Instead of paying full price, take some time to plan your buying schedule to get the best price on groceries, clothing and other necessities. By buying in bulk, freezing leftovers and purchasing second-hand clothes, you'll be able to make it through the year with extra pocket change to spare.
Step 1
Buy groceries in bulk and freeze them. Buy a membership at a warehouse discount store like Costco or Sam's Club and purchase frozen foods on sale several times a year. Keep these foods
Step 2
Take advantage of grocery store sales. Cut coupons and plan meals around which foods the grocery store has for sale each week. Instead of serving the same meals over and over, use sales as an opportunity to switch up your dinner menu.
Step 3
Shop for inexpensive clothing at second-hand clothing stores. Stores like Goodwill and the Salvation Army provide gently used clothing on a budget, and the nicer the neighborhood the store is located in, the nicer quality the clothing will be.
Step 4
Learn to hem and sew your own buttons. Instead of discarding or giving away clothing that has holes, is missing buttons or needs to be hemmed, sew it yourself. If you aren't good at sewing, enlist a family member or friend to fix the clothing for you in exchange for babysitting or other chores.
Step 5
Stop eating out. Meals are far less expensive if you make them at home, especially if you prepare food in large quantities and freeze the leftovers. This way, you can eat the same meal the following week without taking the time and money to prepare it again.
Tips and Warnings
- Purchase clothes that do not require dry cleaning. Remove stains from clothing as quickly as possible to prolong the life of your clothes.
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