It might take me 2 full months, but I’m going to get through 31 tips to help you reduce your debt. Some of my tips have been philosophical, some have been practical. They’re perfect for the beginning debt slayer or the seasoned pro.
Day 22: Oh Be Careful Little Shoppers When & How You Shop
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| I roll with a coupon binder. All. the. time. Photo: Scott Roberson Daily Journal March 14-15, 2009 |
While it sounds obvious, shopping can be one of the biggest budget busters on the block. Whether you shop online, at the mall, the grocery store, or event the dollar store, you can end up spending way more than you intend if you’re not careful. Here are some of my best shopping tips:
- Cash only. We’ve talked about the value of the envelope system. Set yourself a budget for the day and stick to it. There are many studies that show that if you use plastic (even if it’s a debit card), you spend much more than when you use cash.
- Limit your time in the store. I like to shop when I know that I have a limited window of time. For instance, I made a quick Target run today while the Youngest Princesses was at school. I only had 45 minutes to pick up the things I needed, check out (which can take some time when you’re couponing), and head back to pick her up on time. No time to browse. Perfect.
- Don’t Grocery Shop When You’re Hungry. Oh my the extras you’ll buy when your tummy is grumbling.
- Make a list and stick to it. If you’re on a targeted mission, you’ll be less likely to purchase other items. I have used both lists on my phone and on paper. I even have a self-invented short hand system that indicates for which items I have coupons (both manufacturer coupons and store coupons).
- Stay Out of the Mall. Unless you have a specific item to purchase, it’s wise to stay out of the mall. I hate to be a killjoy, but if you’re really serious about getting out of debt, you really shouldn’t just browse, window shop, or maybe even mall walk. It simply puts you in a place of temptation. There’s nothing like a trip to the mall to convince you of 150 things you didn’t even know you needed exist.
- Wait 24 Hours. Find something you love? Something you even need? Something you have budgeted money to make the purchase? It’s still a great idea to let the item sit in your online cart or put it on hold at the store for 24 hours. If it’s not there when you return, you might not have needed as much as you thought you did.
- Skip the Seasonal Aisle. I am such a sucker for seasonal items. Decor, t-shirts, cutesy snacky items – they’re all some of favorite things in the world. But they really aren’t needs. If you must, wait until 1 day after the holiday and pick up things for up to 90% off and save them for next year.
- Shop the Perimeter. Skip the center aisles of the grocery store (with maybe the exception of the cereal and baking aisle occasionally). They usually have the junk foods that aren’t as good for you and you guessed they’re the high priced items that also bust your budget!
- Coupons. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. Keep your coupons organized and at hand whether you’re shopping at the mall, grocery store, or grabbing a quick shopping snack.
What shopping tips keep your budget balanced and help eliminate debt?
