Now, more than ever, it’s important to be thrifty, as well as a bargain shopper.
Recently, our America’s Car-Mart Marketing team talked about ways they are cutting back on their expenses during these challenging times. And they wanted to share their suggestions with Car-Mart’s family of customers.
For starters, it’s always important to have a budget so you can plan accordingly. It’s helpful to keep track of where your money is going, so it’s important to write it down. Here are a few helpful tips on how to save some pennies now and even in the future.
At the grocery store:
Overall, watch for the best buys and look for sale items, then buy more than one if you can. Also, it goes without saying, buy only what you need and don’t buy unnecessary items.
- Cut coupons for food, toiletry and beauty items. Check out The Krazy Coupon Lady, a free online source for clipping coupons and saving money. Be sure to clip coupons only for the items you normally purchase.
- Buy generic items. They’re usually cheaper than name-brand items.
- Purchase staples that are inexpensive and go a long way, such as pasta, rice, frozen veggies, eggs, canned goods, potatoes, and beans.
At home:
There’s plenty of ways to save money at home and in your everyday life.
- Cut the cord with cable TV or eliminate the premium channels.
- Lower your thermostat. Experts recommend 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer.
- Cut your electricity usage. Turn off lights when not in use, and refrain from having the television on all day.
-Unplug unused electronics and other devices that are not being used. Standby power can account for 10 percent of an average household’s annual electricity use. - Wash with bigger loads. Limit the amount of washing and drying of clothes.
- Check your phone bill and see where you can reduce a few items.
On the road:
Overall, watch the price of gasoline and shop for the best price. Major brand gas stations pump the same gas as your local convenience store as all gas must reach a minimum octane level.
- Save gas by combining your errands and trips to the grocery store. Cut down on unnecessary trips and go once a week with a complete list of everything you need.
- Carpool with neighbors to trek to the grocery store.
- Lower your gas costs at the supermarket. Some stores have savings cards where you can save additional pennies per gallon.
- Don’t leave your car idling while you wait for people to hop in your vehicle.
If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out to your church or local organizations for help if necessary. Your local food pantry, YMCA, Salvation Army, etc. may help with finance, food or toiletries. Remember, you’re not alone and your community is ready to help you.
Additionally, the web offers hundreds of tips for saving money. We found the following sites to be especially helpful and insightful.
- How to Save Money: 20 Simple Tips by Dave Ramsey
- 64 Insanely Different Ways to Save Money Around the House by Anna Newel Jones
- 60 Super Simple Ways to Save Money by Real Money Talk
- 87 Super Easy Way to Save Money by Good Financial Cents
We hope these tips will help you save a few pennies as we all work together to get through this situation. Our thoughts are with those who are impacted by the coronavirus. Finally, all of us at Car-Mart hope you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy.
