Save on Food/Housekeeping
Plan Weekly Menu
Know How Much Can Be Spent Before Shopping
Write A Shopping List – stick to it. Ignore nagging children
Take A Calculator
· Use the cheapest supermarkets in the area – watch out for the specials and be aware that local convenience stores and services stations impose a larger profit margin.
· Don’t shop when hungry
· Buy bargains in bulk, if possible. Prepare and freeze fresh produce items
· Consider Own Brand products – Expensive products are not always the best quality
· Compare volumes against cost – look for best value by checking the price per 100grams or litre
· Buy when items are in season – Many foodstuffs and produce are priced based on auction obtained by producers. This means when products are in good supply the prices tend to be lower
· Select multi-purpose cleaning. Don’t buy a range of separate cleaning products when one multi-purpose one will do the same job
· Buy ingredients and bake. Some aged produce may be offered at very discounted prices but may still be perfectly good if used straight away or prepared and stored
· Provide children with after school snacks. This deters them from scavenging in the cupboards and upsetting planned menus
Plan for Christmas
· Plan Ahead – buy when prices are lowest and items on special. Don’t leave buying to the last minute
· Put some money aside each payday for Christmas
· Set a budget for gifts and stick to it. – Discuss gift buying with family/friends and decide who to give and agree maximum amounts. This up economy gifts to make or buy
· Consider second-hand and don’t feel pressured into buying gifts for every family member and friend
· Don’t be tempted to borrow or get into credit deals.
· Don’t be sucked in by elaborate advertising. Be clear what repayments are affordable
· Be realistic about food/refreshments. Traditional expensive foods may not be as appreciated as the family’s favourites