Summer 2004
Saving money on purchases is an important topic for most military families. Being able to keep a few extra dollars in your checking account can help you get on the road to financial freedom. In this article, we will discuss a few ideas to get you started.
The Commissary
You've heard it before: Eating before grocery shopping is a great way to cut costs. If you aren't hungry, you're less likely to make impulse buys based on the growls of your stomach. Eat before you shop!
Do you take a list to the grocery store? If so, how do you make your list? It's a good idea to take a thoughtful look at how you decide what you will need to keep your family fed and comfortable.
- Consider making a menu for the week(s) you will shop for. Only include items needed for those meals on your list. While shopping, don't add items to your cart that aren't on the list.
- Instead of buying pre-packaged snack foods, make your own packages.
- Take a look at what you already have in the area of personal hygiene products so that you don't spend money on things you don't need right now.
Making a strict list isn't the only way to save money when shopping for groceries. Taking your time and being prepared can help too!
- Shop when you have enough time to compare product sizes and prices for the best deal.
- Check for coupons available at the commissary for certain products. They are often located on easy tear-off pads right by the products.
- Many products we purchase each week have coupons attached to their label or box. Before tossing out the package, check for coupons and take a few moments to cut them out.
- Visit Commissaries.com for a list of items on sale by location. The commissary website also features recipes using products available at the store.
By taking a little time to cut coupons, plan your menu and visit the commissary website, you can save a considerable amount of money by constructing your menu around items that are on sale. It is a little time-consuming, but it's well worth it when you see how much you saved on your visit to the commissary - the amount is printed at the bottom of your receipt. That is extra money you otherwise wouldn't have enjoyed!
Entertainment and Life's Extras
How much do you spend each month eating out, renting or going to movies and other enjoyable activities? If you keep track of your spending on life's little extras for one month, you'll be surprised at the amount you can save.
If you aren't keeping track, put a pocket notebook in your purse. Write it down every time you are out and purchase a soft drink, stop for a slice of pizza or a burger, or buy anything else that may fall under the category of entertainment and life's extras. Tally your results at the end of the month. Are you satisfied with the dollar amount staring back at you? If not, make a conscious effort to cut down on these kinds of expenses.
A few ideas:
- Buy soft drinks at the commissary and take one with you when you leave home. If you really want to cut corners, save the plastic cups, lids and straws from soda fountain drinks you've purchased at gas stations. Reuse them with beverages from home.
- Eat before you leave home. If you eat before you go, chances are you won't be hungry while you're out. You won't have to fight the temptation of stopping at a fast-food restaurant.
- Instead of eating out, cook out! It's much cheaper to eat at home than it is to eat out. Invite friends and ask them to bring a side dish or drinks. Sharing the costs of a meal and being at home will save money compared to going out to a movie or a club.
Hopefully, these ideas can be applied to your everyday life and will help you and your family save money.
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Shannon Hall is an Army wife and editor of Military Spouse Headquarters, a website for military members and their families.