Ever wonder if you're really saving by buying bulk at a club like Costco or Sam's? Many coupon clippers insist that food is as cheap or even cheaper at the grocery store - especially if you have double coupons or if you combine your coupons with weekly sales. But you can find some great deals at your favorite club, as long as you know what to look for. Don't miss these brilliant tricks for cutting your grocery bill in half.
Best Food bargains:
Milk, spaghetti sauce, microwave popcorn, peanut butter, juice boxes, pickles, sugar-free sweeteners, instant hot chocolate
Best Nonfood bargains:
Gas, brand-name clothing, film developing, baby wipes, Christmas decorations, laundry detergent, tires, batteries
Want even more savings? Check your grocery list to see if any of these items are on there. You might be surprised by how much you can save by tweaking your habits.
- Mix it yourself. You can pay up to 50 percent more for foods that come with sugar, spices, or sauces already mixed in. And premixed juice costs a hefty 60 percent more than frozen concentrate.
- Bigger isn't always cheaper. Sometimes the unit price is the same whether you buy regular size or jumbo.
- Skip pricey fortified cereals. They promise 100 percent of the recommended vitamins and minerals - but this isn't your only meal of the day. Stick with a basic cereal and save.
- Pick up large bags of frozen vegetables instead of the boxes, which generally cost more per serving.
- Don't buy toiletries at the grocery store unless you have a coupon. The price can be 25 percent higher than what you'd pay at the drugstore.
- Go with paper plates. Plastic usually costs twice as much.
How do you save money on groceries? Share your best tips with us!
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The Rules of Plus-Size Living
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- Find the Dog Breed That Fits Your Family
- For More Tips & Tricks You Can Count On: Subscribe to Good Housekeeping & Save!
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
