Frugal Shopping is Smart Shopping

Frugal shopping is just the smart thing to do no matter how much money you have to spend. I don't know anyone who doesn't get a thrill from finding a bargain and saving money! If you're on a tight budget, you'll want to save money on everything you buy and do.

The most effective way to get the most for your money is to know what to expect. Always do your research and plan whenever possible. This is especially true for large appliances, furnishings, and major expenses (such as a car or a home)

Frugal Shopping and Planning

Maximize Savings, Avoid Compulsive Buying, and Relieve Stress

Planning your purchases - Planning is an essential part of frugal shopping and will help you save money throughout the year. Plan ahead whenever possible.
Include gifts and holidays in your Household Budget variable expense account. You'll have the funds when you need them.

Stay organized and calm - Make a frugal shopping list when applicable and check it twice! It always works for Santa at Christmas time!
You can make a list of occasions for the whole year. Include birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, weddings, graduations, baby showers and any other special occasion you can foresee and might want to give a gift for.
Keep your list with you at all times. You never know when you'll be shopping for something totally irrelevant and come across a huge baby sale that might come in handy for a future baby shower gift.

Frugal shopping and research - If you do your research you'll know when it's really a bargain! Many times merchants use sale strategies that make you think you're getting the best deal. Of course, you won't know if that's true if you don't know what's out there and what competitive prices are. This is especialy important when shopping for major appliances, cars, and even homes.

Major appliances come with many features and in many sizes. Why buy an extra large capacity, if you don't need it or it won't save you money in the long run? Bigger is not always better. Know what you need, what is available, and what features you need. Don't spend extra money on features you will likely never take advantage of.

Review our Car Buying Tips and Home Buying Tips for frugal shopping tips in these areas.

When shopping for major holidays and events, shop early. I know you always say you will. This time DO IT! Buy gifts one by one as you come up with good gift ideas and good bargains! Always keeping an eye open for bargains is one of the keys to successful frugal shopping.

Frugal shopping and your budget - Create a budget and stay within your budget. It is possible. You should have amounts already accounted for in your household budget to include, clothing, and all your expected shopping expenses (gifts, special events, holidays, etc.) These should be included in your variable expenses. If not, you should try to come up with a yearly estimate for your frugal shopping expenses and set aside a monthly amount to allow for these expenses in your budget.

Use all the suggestions above. Buy in advance, take advantage of seasonal sales, thrift stores, and yard sales. Your budget's favorite words? Clearance, Closeout, Discount, Discontinued, and Sale.

Discount Merchandise and Frugal Shopping

Frugal shopping means always looking for the best price on everything you buy. Use some simple shopping strategies to get the best prices and save money.

Be a savvy shopper! Always check the clearance, closeout, or discontinued departments first! For everything from household goods, kitchen gadgets, toys, and electronics be sure to check out the clearance departments at virtual discount malls like:

Buy.com
Overstock.com
Classic Closeouts and
Amazon.com

Never Buy the First Item You Price!

Likelihood is you'll turn the web page (or website) and find it or something equivalent to it for a better price.Always check several sources before making a final purchase.

Know your rights - Most products come with some sort of guarantee. However, on occasion, sales are noted as "final". In this case, be sure the product is what you want and you are prepared to basically risk that amount of money.

Shop thrift stores and yard sales for items where used versions are acceptable for your purchase. Never buy an item new when a used alternative will suffice. When considering major purchases also consider the differences in any warranties or guarantees offered. Analyze your needs and make informed decisions based on all factors.

Send us your frugal shopping tips!

Get Up to 50% off Toys at Buy.com!Buy.com has products in a variety of categories. Plus, don't forget to check out the clearance section!