The New Year is only days away. This is the time of year we make our goals and resolutions for another year. Saving money and sticking to a budget is probably high on the list of goals.
Print a $1.00 Hellman’s Mayonnaise coupon here or here (under zip code 55455) to use at Family Dollar.
Preparing a bagged lunch a few days a week is nice start to get you to your goals. Do you have a favorite shopping tip to share?
A few tips:
- Write a grocery store list so you don’t overspend
- Bring a bagged lunch – The good old classic brown bag lunch.
- Preparing delicious yet inexpensive sandwiches for dinner once a week
Share your tip for 2014 and you’ll be entered for a change to win a $50.00 Family Dollar Giftcard and a Breville Panini Press. You may share as many tips as you would like.
To enter the giveaway, simply comment on this post with your tip.
*Official Rules: Last day to enter the giveaway is 1/13/2014 at 11:59 pm EST. You must supply a valid email address at time of entry. We never sell or trade emails.Winner must live in the USA, 18 years or older and void where prohibited. This giveaway is sponsored by Lunchbox.
Renee J says
Whenever possible, buy fresh. Meat, most produce, butter and coffee all freeze so buy in bulk when on sale and freeze.
Maralea says
Never leave home without your list and coupons!
Ger says
If you buy your meat in bulk, freeze it in portions to fit your recipes.
Sunnie says
One last tip is to eat up leftovers!
Margot C says
Bring your calculator! Many stores have already calculated the unit prices of the items you buy, but many don’t offer this.
Margot C says
Do the math! What’s the price difference between the bag of dried beans that sells for $.89 and the can of beans that sells for $.99? Just a dime? No. The bag yields 7 cups of cooked beans, $.13 per cup. The can yields 1-1/2 cups of cooked beans, $.66 per cup. The canned beans – as inexpensive as they are – are five times more expensive than dried beans
Ger says
Get a rain check if the item you want is on sale but out of stock.
julie murphy says
I buy in bulk, can most of my own food, make most of out food from scratch, and use coupoons with sales as much as poxxible
Ger says
Keep your eyes open for blinkies and coupons by the products in the grocery aisles,
Ger says
Don’t be afraid to try new products that you have a coupon for. If you dislike it, call the company of the product and let them know, if you really like it, let them know.
Ger says
Consolidate your shopping and save on gas. Make plans to hit other stores along your route and bring a ice chest if you plan to go to a more than one grocery store.
Holly S. says
Make a weekly menu; it saves money at the grocery store and ensures you have something at home to cook.
Ger says
Check the clearance bins at the grocery stores, you never know what you will find!
caroline says
Willpower.
Margot C says
Make Fewer Shopping Trips The more often you go shopping, the more you are likely to spend. Get organized and only go once a week.
Margot C says
Avoid Impulse Purchases These are the bane of all would-be frugal shoppers, so just don’t do it. If you truly need an item, then it should appear on your list next week.
Margot C says
Keep a Running Grocery List When you run out of anything, add it to the list. The more well-stocked your larder is, the better you’ll eat, and the less you’ll spend. Always take your list of the things you need when you shop, and only buy what’s on the list. If it’s not on the list, then you obviously don’t need it!
ivan mckinnon says
Use Hellman’s mayo in chocolate cake. it makes it so much richer.
Jackie says
I use a budget! I also try to make all my own stuff (food, laundry detergent, shakes for family night, etc). Coupon match ups are the best way to go!
Susanna says
To get my kids to learn how to coupon & save, so they won’t waste money like I did at their age…ugh!!!
shirley says
Use this website along with store deals to make sure I’m getting all of the deals to save the most money. and keeping a monthly speeding tracking worksheet.
Sadie B. says
Use coupons to try new items and see if the kids will like them.
Margot C says
Buy laundry detergent on sale and stock-up
sandy weinstein says
when shopping, be aware of the discontinued signs, some products are really cheap, h. teeter and kroger does this, especially in frozen sections, then use coupons to match up w/the discont items…can get really cheap\
sandy weinstein says
go to cvs -add cvs coupons and use manf coupons, rite aid use video coupons + manf coupons
marian boll says
Home cooked meals from scratch are my family’s favorite and that way I can control the amounts per person and cost…
sandy weinstein says
load your shopping card w/ e coupons, h teeter, will let you use e coupons+manf coupons, which will double if uner .99, lowes will not do this. target use cartwheel, target coupons and manf coupons
Sadie B. says
Stock up on pizza items and have once a week make your own pizza night.
Crystal Renee says
Bring your own food to work. Saves so much money and especially when you buy things on sale, off brand items, and in bulk!
Ger says
Brown bag it to work a couple times a week. You’ll be surprised at the savings !
Ger says
Some grocery stores have manager specials in the bakery department, if you find something and can’t use it immediately, freeze it.
Ger says
Savings blogs usually post grocery store and drug store ads early. Use them to get your coupons organized early.
Evy says
never leave home without your coupons,bogo and price match with all the store ads. Budget yourself and double up on your coupons. Always bring your lunch from home, and most important of all look for all the freebie sites for free products, that saves you a lot of money. I know it does for me I love it.
Michaela Kendall says
Study the ads- make your menu based on sales and coupons. Start a savings account and put half of what you save from price matching and coupons into your account. Sign up for ibotta and saving star for added savings. You can let the savings add up over the course of the year – you’ll be surprised in dec at the $$$ you have saved.
Mary Cloud says
Bring your own lunch with you – using coupons when shopping can save you a lot of money but if you spend all your savings eating out like we’re bad about doing it doesn’t help much
annabella @ centurytel dot net
richelle bowers says
shop sales and use coupons
sunnie says
Make a budget you can stick to.
Teresa says
Focus on deals at just a few stores (one grocery and one drug store for our family) so your not overwhelmed. Eventually the same product deal will roll around to your store.
Maralea says
Always check weekly ads and use coupons for added savings!
Anonymous says
Organize coupons on Saturday night. Discarding old ones, prepared for Sunday.
Chris says
Start small and build as you learn.
Ger says
Never leave your coupons at home..grr. Organize them with your shopping list and take them with you.
Ger says
Keep a bag in the freezer for extra chopped veggies, like onions, bell peppers, carrots etc. Just keep adding to the bag whenever you chop too many. It’s great to use for soups.
Laura says
Never go food shopping hungry!
Ger says
Shopping earlier in the morning is when I find managers specials on meat sometimes up to 75% off !
Bonnet Riddles says
Never shop hungry! Make a list and organize your coupons by aisle.
Bonnet Riddles says
Make a list. Don’t shop hungry. Prepare your coupons ahead of time by mapping out the aisles in your store and putting them in appropriate order.
Dhani says
Plan to eat a sandwich (or two) as one of your daily meals (hearty and filling for breakfast, light and simple for lunch or dressed up with sides for dinner), set a grocery budget, view sale ads/deals online to comparison shop/price match, and utilize manufacture, store and competitor coupons for greater savings.
Candie L says
For me, using Dave Ramseys ideas have helped. We split our extra money into 4 weekly envelopes. When our money is gone for one week, we stop spending until Sunday. It has helped a lot and I am amazed how much I really save. Thank you
Kristina says
Plan your meals out for a month and cook enough of key ingredients ahead of time. For instance I make mashed potatoes from a mix of gold and red potatoes. I’ll use the 5 pound bags of potatoes, so 10 pounds of mashed potatoes total. Then freeze them by the scoop and pull what I need as a side or ingredient for shepard’s pie and casseroles.
Margot C says
When tomato cans are on sale (whole, diced, sauce -whatever you use) buy a bunch. Then roast a bunch of vegetables (eggplant, zucchini, onion, carrot) and a head of garlic. Process it all with the tomatoes in a food processor (or don’t, just mix it up) and you have an AMAZING pasta or meat sauce that freezes well, is super cheap but is amazingly healthy.
Sadie B. says
Have a weekly budget and stick to it.
Sunnie says
Another tip is to cook at home, it gets so expensive to eat out!
Margot C says
Use cash only at the grocery store; it really helps to not over-spend.
Margot C says
Don’t be too shy to speak up and say |yes I have a coupon!”; if the people behind you groan it’s their problem (though try to be organized and ready with them)
Ger says
Waiting in line is a good time to get all your coupons in order.
Ger says
Check your receipt before you leave the store, if there is a mistake you can get it corrected at customer service while you are there.
Melanie Jones says
make freezer meals to safe time during the week for dinner and can be used to quick take along lunches.
Sue says
Thank you for all the great coupon savings. And yes, making a shopping list definitely helps when shopping in the store to make sure you get the ingredients you need for those weekly meals. Also, bagged lunches can be less expensive and a good way to get rid of leftovers in the refrigerator.
I also do make sandwiches at least once a week already because most leftovers can be turned into great sandwiches.
Charlotte Stonerook says
Buy when it is on sale, like spaghetti sauces, when it is on sale for $1.00, I stock up.
Emily P. says
Don’t be afraid to try generic brands, they’re often times just as good or better than the brand name. If you need a certain product and they don’t gave sales/coupons for that– it’s worth a shot!
Cynthia R says
before going to the grocery store, add e coupons to your grocery savings cards, print out coupons, clip coupons, and check ibotta for deals.
Eva says
plan out your shopping trips!
Maralea says
Keep coupons organized for easy access when shopping.
Maralea says
Make meals ahead of time and put in the freezer for later.
Ger says
If you find something at rock bottom price, buy multiples.
Ger says
Make breakfast burritos the night before, just heat up in the morning.
Sadie B. says
Find recipes that your family loves that can be doubled and frozen. Makes a quick meal for a busy day.
Margot C says
Always buy pantry (or shelf stable) items with a coupon or at a sale price. Weekly shopping is for fresh food ingredients.
Cori Westphal says
We have homemade pizza night, which is a lot cheaper than ordering. And we also do pack our own lunches, and one day a week we do a vegetarian night. It’s a great way to save money and is healthful too!
coriwestphal at msn dot com
Sunnie says
Pack a lunch, it gets so expensive to eat out!
Maralea says
Pack your lunch the night before.
Roslyn Crawford says
Make your own beverages, such as iced tea, and send along in recyclable container. Huge money saver! Can even freeze to keep cold longer.
Sadie B. says
Use cloth towels and washcloths. Saves lots of paper and money.
Ger says
Check to see if the store has online coupons that you can load to your loyalty card.
Ger says
Stick to a budget by paying with cash.
Ger says
Menu plan each week based on what’s on sale.
Margot C says
Plan a menu that covers the entire week and stick to it; no getting lazy and ordering take-out.
Maralea says
Ad match and use coupons!
Jen T. says
I make a lot of food at once and individually wrap and freeze meals. It makes a much more healthy (and cheaper) quick frozen dinner.
Margot C says
Don’t forget store loyalty cards; they can really pay off in discounts and special coupons.
Margot C says
When cooking chicken breasts or pork chops make an extra one and have it for lunch the next day.
Roslyn Crawford says
Oftentimes, especially in winter, I make an extra serving at dinner to be reheated for lunch the next day.
Ger says
Don’t leave your purse in your shopping cart while shopping, it’s easy to forget about it while looking for something on the shelves.
Sadie B. says
We like to have breakfast for dinner once a week. Eggs are a cheap protein.
Margot C says
Always carry not just your bagged lunch but some nuts or an energy bar and a piece of fruit to get you through the day without buying expensive junk food.
Ger says
Check the best buy dates on products while you are the store. It will save you time and money. Nothing is more frustrating than getting home and finding out you have expired products.
Ger says
Always use your store loyalty card. If you forget it, you can give the cashier your phone number.
Sadie B. says
Stock up on things that can be frozen. We buy ground turkey on sale and freeze it in small containers.
Ger says
Make sure your coupons are for the correct product.
Ger says
Match coupons with sales !
Lauren E. says
I check local blogs for coupon match ups, print the lists and print the coupons out from available sources (coupons.com, smart source, red plum etc) so I go prepared with minimal time/effort to save money on the things I need anyways.
Maralea says
Always make a grocery list!
Margot C says
Always have a snack brfore food shopping; I sometimes buy the dumbest things when I am hungry.
Roslyn Crawford says
Buy snacks, like chips and pretzels in larger bags and portion out into snack size ones.
Tabathia B says
I do plan a menu for the week and have it up and and shop from a list and use coupons and shop store sales and price match when possible
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
barbara m says
Make a list and try to organize your coupons in order with the store. Not an easy task for me but I do try every weekend!
Ronnie B. says
Look at FTM blog and make my list based on the best deals of the week. :)
Margot C says
Don’t forget price matching!
sandy weinstein says
look for the tags that say discontinued/clearance, and then try to see if you have any coupons for these items, i got a 5.oo box of kashi bars for .98 on clearance at kroger. they also have lots of discontinued items in their freezer sections as well. h teeter does this sometimes as well
sandy weinstein says
read the circulars and match up your coupons b4 you go to the store so you wont waste time looking for your coupons to use.
sandy weinstein says
make a list b4 you go and stick w/ it
Ger says
Always remember to bring your coupons and the sales ad with you.
Susan Christy says
I never go to the store without a list. And I stick to it, unless there is an essential I forgot to write down like milk or bread.
Ger says
Don’t go grocery shopping hungry, you’ll end up buying more.
Ger says
Double your recipes and freeze the extra !
Ger says
Make a list, stick to it and always use coupons !
Sunnie says
Make a list and stick to it!
wanda says
Don’t spend what you don’t have!
Margot C says
Look for big ticket items on sale (like beef roast)them build your menu around them. Make that list and stick to it!
Margot C says
Make bunch of caramelized onions or even a mirepoix of onions, celery and carrot caramelized. Freeze this in an old ice tray reserved for freezing stock and suchlike. These cubes of concentrated flavor make whipping up a great meal (think chicken or chops) so easy and economical that you won’t be tempted to buy fast food instead.
Maralea says
Prepare meals on the weekends and freeze them so you have a quick meal at night so you aren’t tempted to just grab something on your way home from work or school.
melissa l says
Buy when on sale.
Sadie B. says
Use the crockpot to make a big meal. ANd plan for leftovers.
Andrea says
Be friendly and patient with your cashiers and other store associates, especially when you’re shopping at a particular store frequently. Nothing makes shopping with coupons an easier and smoother process than having a cashier who is just as excited about the deals you’re about to score.
Debbie Jackson says
Price match and use coupons.
Olivia Sabol says
Keeping organized and motivated are my biggest tips! I keep all of my biggest sources of household motivation right in a very central location – on the fridge! As the house chef, I’ll probably be in the fridge at some point in the day. On the front portion, I keep a weekly calendar. Each Sunday, I will write out daily tasks for myself and/or my fiance. This is mega helpful, as we have just moved into our first apartment and its easy for cleaning to get pushed off til it is totally out of hand. With just little daily things like sweeping, dusting, and running the vacuum – the apartment stays clean and we stay comfy! Also, on the side portion of our fridge that faces out into the rest of our kitchen, I keep a large monthly calendar. That way we can keep up to date on eachothers’ work schedules, appointments, and class assignments. Again, so super helpful to take a glance towards the rest of your week while just chowin down on some breakfast.
And last but not least. I coupon like crazy. Despite only being 21, I don’t have any social media. The time that most girls my age spend on Facebook and Twitter, I spend browsing sites like this, “Living Rich with Coupons, “Passion For Savings, ” and etc.! That way if there’s any really, really great deals, I can simply pounce on them on my way home from work. ( I even have a mini “stock pile” of personal care items under the bathroom sink!) I can’t tell you how much money I save at Shoprite every two weeks – simply because of this sites and others. Between coupons and planning effectively, my fiance and I have been able to live comfortably without a lot of the “struggles” that independent college students face. Trust me, there’s no ramen noodle diets in this home!
Thank you for the mayo coupon, and the chance to submit to such a cool give away!
Happy New Year, everyone!
Heidi S says
When making BLT’s or Club sandwiches, sprinkle packaged bacon pieces in with your Hellman’s before spreading. It will give the same bacon flavor without the expense of bacon strips. Fewer fat & calories too!
Sandra says
I always plan out my meals for the week the weekend before. I also try to do meals that will last 2 to 3 days. Leftovers are ALWAYS good. I also work on my shopping list for each friday all through the week starting on the Saturday before. That’s when I get Giant’s ad in the mail. Lastly, I always stick to my budget. No matter what, I never go over what I plan to spend that week. I am usually way under.
stephanie says
Take a look at sales flyers and then make your meal plan for the week!
Rebecca says
Prepare meals a week ahead. Always and I mean always use coupons to save money. Don’t let your husband go grocery shopping.
meagan says
Plan your meals from the sale ad for the week.
scott says
You can always bring your coupon and receipt back to the store later if you do not have it with you and it is the last day of the sale or something is on clearance
LORI says
Do not make any purchase over 300.00 without waiting to talk to your spouse.
Andrea says
Plan my meals for the week and stick to the grocery list.
kandi says
menu plan based on whats left in your fridge or pantry you need to use up Next add items from stockpile. Then create your shopping list from there. You’ll be surprised how little you really “need” from the store.
Margot C says
Don’t forget to read the circulars from the local stores to see what is one sale; often you can just read them online.
amber says
my fave shopping tip is to always swing by the meat section for manager’s specials that you can freeze and use for future meals – help u save so much on meat
Kathy says
Do a menu each week. Do my grocery list from those menu. Check FTM coupon database for items I will be shopping for. And most of all, remember to take my list with me. Thanks.
Maralea says
Use coupons and check the sales!
Roslyn Crawford says
Make large pots of soups and freeze in portions either in ziploc bags or containers. Take out the day before and thaw in fridge so it will be ready for lunch the next day. Homemade yummy goodness!
KyleneW says
Make a double meal and freeze half for another day that is busy, less excuses to order/eat out.
Pam says
Plan ahead. Use leftovers from meals as ingredients for bag lunches. We like to roast a chicken on Sundays then have carved chicken or chicken salad for lunch sandwiches or salads during the week.
Judy says
Use coupons and stock up. Get your helman’s dressing and spread on outside of your sandwich then Putin pain maker you will have a very tasty sandwich!!!
Dom focker says
Buy produce at a local farmers market!
Sarah Hulsey says
Cook enough at dinner so you have leftovers for lunch the next day.
Nadya says
Go through weekly store ads before you go shopping, make a list according to them and look for manufacturer’s coupons for products you use or need. Also if it’s a store that has their own coupons (Target for example), make sure to go through them as well. By getting sale items from weekly ads, combining manufacturer’s and store coupons you get the best deals and saving the most money!
Kim says
Cook more if the food is transportable. Always buy your staple when it is on sale. Learn to love food that is cheaper and healthier. Children learn from us so if we become pansies to new food don’t expect much from them. Waste is not valuing everything. Eat from tail to snout, inside and out.
Thabal says
We started using Mint last year and set a budget and tested it out for a couple of months to figure out where and how much the money goes. We re-adjusted it and have stuck to the budget ever since. A very handy tool.
Susanna says
Stock up on pantry staples when you find a bargain and just do a weekly run for fresh stuff. Always check for coupons, always have a list, and put a time limit on how long you will spend in the store.
Kat M. says
Make your meal plan based on the sales flyers!
Sonya says
Make your brown bag lunch the night before. Things are so crazy in the morning, it’s easy to grab it and go!
bettina vernon says
Put the money you save using coupons somewhere, such as in a jar. You will see the cash building which will motivate you to keep going – plus you’ll have a very nice amount to spend on something special, like a trip or some other indulgence.
Margot C says
Put frozen ham and cheese sandwiches in the Panini Press! Make a sald while they defrost and cook – voila!
Margot C says
Bake your own birthday cakes!
Margot C says
Use a stainless steel bottle or a glass bottle and fill it with juice in the morning; don’t buy sodas when you are away from home from machines.
Alishia says
Tip: Always coupon and make your list before going to the store. Price compare with stores in your local area & stock up when you find an amazing deal :)
Jammie says
Tip: Have a calculator on hand and eat before you go. If you don’t you will over spend and pick up some not so healthy products
Chris says
Make a list, remember to take coupons and price match.
Faye H says
Use digital couons as well as manufacturer coupons and utilize the B1G1 free sales at Publix
Ysenia Ramire says
Always remember to eat before you shop and coupons is a must!
Margot C says
Buy meat when it’s specially priced and portion it, mark it and freeze it.
Sally Wilsey says
When you come home make sure to divide meats into serving portions.
Heather E says
I like to plan out my grocery shopping and meals for the week based on the weekly sales. I also use coupons.
Jodie Cochran says
Don’t pack the same thing over and over change it up
Sara Ritter says
only Buy what you know will be eaten, and make it fun not boring!
Sara Ritter says
Buy only what you know is liked and will be eaten in a bagged lunch. Make them fun! not boring.
Amy M says
Make a list; clip your coupons; only buy what you need; and use cash for your purchase at Family Dollar
Cindy T. says
I make a list & stick to it. Thank u for the chance to win.
Tim says
Make a list and check for available coupons (on the manufactures website) for the items you need to buy or that are on sale before you leave for the store. I find many coupons that way.
Susan Christy says
Ask for price matching so you don’t have to drive all over town and waste gas to get bargains.
lizlang says
Make soup to use up the little bit of this and that left overs in the fridge- wasting food is expensive!
Anna says
Sort your shopping list buy the section and aisle so you know what aisles you need to go on. This helps me resist impulse buys and saves time. I also make use of bulk items in my regular diet. Lentils are great for you, versatile, pretty quick to cook, and as cheap as it gets.
Karen says
Don’t assume the larger products are cheaper. Check the unit pricing.
Kim says
All my tips would be repeats! Lol. But I do try to get cans of soup on sale and keep them at work for lunch in case I forget. :)
Cecil says
Checking your email list daily see what I need & go out buy them . Thank you for making my shopping easy
Melanie Jones says
only take cash and a list to the store with you. no children, they seem to rack up the shopping trip pretty quickly!
faith says
watch the sale ads and use coupons
Jennsing says
Make delicious veggie sandwiches with cream cheese, cucumbers, tomato slices, alfalfa sprouts and crushed avocado spread. No one will miss the meat!
sandy weinstein says
every sun and wed, i go thru the circulars, write down what i am interested in, then match up coupons on line and in my binder. then i go to websites that will allow both their own and manf coupons and load them/print to my card, so i get both. eg, target and harris teeter, cvs, also sometimes petco will allow you to use both their coupons and manf….on sundays, h teeter deli e chicken are 4.99, then when they are reduced they are 3.99. i stock up on these and freeze them….
Laura says
I always write a list, matching sales and coupons (by using FTM!), and I stick to my list when shopping. It allows me to stay within my budget, and remember to get everything I need.
Laura says
Never go shopping hungry. Plan out meals and search paper for sales and match coupons with the sales.
Misty says
Print out coupons online then ad match them to what is on sale for the week. Stock up on good sales.
Pat says
Match coupons with what’s on sale.
Stephanie Brenner says
NEVER go to the store HUNGRY. It never fails, if I go to the store on an empty stomach, I buy things I wouldn’t normally consider simply b/c I’m hungry. Going to the store with a full belly not only helps you to make smarter choices but costs less, too $$$
Colleen Boudreau says
Use lots of coupons!
Sadie B. says
Plan a menu based on the sales for the week at the grocery store.
Maralea says
Prepare lunches the night before
Margot C says
Chop vegetables for the dinner meal and throw them in a bowl with a lid to be prepared. This keeps me committed and less likely to order a pizza!
rayray cartucci says
I carry lunches,stick to a shopping list and clip those coupons!
Sadie B. says
Plan out a few meals for the week. And then leave some wiggle room for leftovers.
Jennifer says
Shop your stores’ weekly sales and use coupons to generate deeper discounts. If possible, stack store and manufacturer coupons for even more savings. Look for opportunites to get fuel discounts on these sale items, as well.
latanya says
meal planning helps to keep from eating out and saves money from going to the grocery store everyday
Maralea says
Use as many coupons as possible and stick to a weekly menu plan!
Steph says
I always make a shopping list and stick to my list.
Nicole says
I make a shopping list and shop when tired so I don’t have the energy to buy things not on my list.
Sadie B. says
Have a food budget and stick with it. We keep a running total and know how much we have left for the week.
Maralea says
Make meals ahead and freeze them for easy dinners!
Margot C says
Shop the outer aisles of the store (vegetables first!, milk, meat) and only venture in the center aisles of packages stuff armed with a list (and a coupon, there is always a coupon for practically any packaged shelf-stable product) and find the thing and get out!
Margot C says
Buy in bulk when you can, when it makes sense; don’t buy bulk of something that you don’t need just because it’s cheap!
Roslyn Crawford says
Buy items when marked down and freeze it! Works great with lunch meat and cheeses.
martha says
Floss-we all need to do it -especially with the cost of dentist visits!
Margot C says
Prepare meals on weekends that you can have for lunch during the week.
Janice K says
Shop on a full stomach and without kids. You’ll be surprised how much you save even if you forget to bring your coupons with you ;)
Maralea says
Plan weekly menus according to sale ads
Maralea says
Make lunches for work and save money!
Oanh Ho says
Use grocery cash back phone apps to save additional money.
Bonnie says
Take a bottle of water and drink while your shopping sometimes you crave things when you believe your hungry. You are probably just thirsty.
Mindi Calicchio says
Shop late at night or early in the morning, it’s less crowded. Then you can get in and out faster!
Bonnie says
Shop on the outer edges of the grocery store. Veggie, fruit, meat, dairy, bread. Stick to your list when you start walking in between the aisles.
Linda says
Use coupons and plan meals ahead.
wild orchid says
Buy ingredients in bulk or combine coupons with sales to save money.
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
Megan says
Shop at more than one store on a weekly basis. You’ll get better deals this way; things that are not on sale at one store are often on sale at another.
Kelsey says
I regularly “cook from the pantry” and use items I’ve stocked up on with coupons to avoid paying full price for meal ingredients!
Wen Elizabeth says
Plan your meals and stock up when items you commonly use are on sale.
Lorraine C says
Use coupons and stores that double your money!
Jacob LaFountaine says
Make a budget and only buy up to the limit.
Barbara says
On Sundays I set aside time a few hours and do a batch cooking session. Planned with my coupons and stockpile deals. I especially love roasting a batch of veggies with just some olive oil and sea salt. Then use vacuum seal bags. Keep some meals in the freezer some in the refrigerator. You have ready to go healthy meals. Also, the rubbermaid containers with the separate dip section rock, keep you salads crisp not soggy!
Stacy Abrams says
Coupons and sockpile
cheryl says
I always pack our lunches for work. I make sandwiches for hubby and leftovers for me. When I see lunchmeats on sale I really stock up. If bologna is 1.00 or less per lb, I’ll get 20 lbs of it. it lasts a long time and we like to snack on it for a good low carb snack. I get 10-20 lbs of hamburger and chicken breasts when its a great deal and repackage for the freezer. I always have single breasts and 1 lb burger packages in the freezer for meals, and I make up about 30 – 5oz burger patties for the freezer. Also we love cheese and I buy chunk cheese and slice it myself for sandwiches.
Stacy Abrams says
I try to meal plan and also make extra and take leftovers for lunches.
Ruth says
Another thing is understanding coupon cycles. Stock up when there is a coupon for an item like Mayo, Pasta Sauce so you don’t have to pay full price when you need it.
Ruth says
If you have time, help a couple of your neighbors or friends save money, shop for them also for non perishables and it is a great way to earn those gas points if you have a Giant Store near you. You can actually save hundreds of dollars on gas every month.
Margot C says
Try to strike a balance between using coupons and becoming obsessed by them; your time has value too. I use them and discount cards and I buy mark-downs, but I am not willing to spend more that 1/2 hour per week on gathering, researching, clipping or printing coupons. Should be all that you need.
rayray cartucci says
I use coupons,look for stuff that is going on sale and I stick to my grocery list.
Making a list & sticking to it when buying groceries says
Go on full stomach & make a list that you stick too. If you see items missed, unless absolutely necessary start a new list. This saves you from impulse shopping
Kelly D says
Look for coupons online before heading to the store.
Margot C says
Make a budget for each trip to each store and stick to it no matter what.
Margot C says
The most important money saving tip I know is – make your own coffee! Put it in a thermos. Do not patronize those places that sell bitter coffee for $3 and more a cup (I don’t need to name them) – not ever. You will save hundreds of dollars ever year and you will have your coffee just the way you like it.
Stephanie K says
Stockpile! Buy low and buy a lot! :)
rod jackson says
My tip is to spend cash and don’t go the credit route.
Lorena says
Shop with cash so you won’t overspend.
Rachel says
If you can comparison shop your stores for the best deals and don’t forget about price matching!
michelle g says
But everything that are non necessities when they are on sale and use a coupon
Phaltu Kachra says
Never indulge in impulse purchase
Rhonda G says
I make a menu, and list what I need for that week. I stick to my list. We also buy meats in bulk every 3 months when a local store has a truckload sale. I repackage and freeze.
Amy Taylor says
Use forthemommas for great deals and printable coupons!
Amy Taylor says
Plan your meals, eat at home and pack…..also COUPONING!!!
Jen says
Brown bag the kids lunches too! More nutrition for you money!
Debbie says
shop the giant gas deals and get bargains on your groceries and get free or cheap gas :)
carolyn says
Make a big pot/dish for dinner and repurpose for lunches. we freeze the rest for a quick dinner instead of going to fast food.
HEather says
make a list of your favorite prepared quick fix items (breakfast burritos, toaster strudels, ect. ) and make them at home and freeze some. Or for example the breakfast burritos (I am eating one right now!) chop the veggies ahead of time so you just have to dump them in with the scrambled eggs that morning!
Debbie says
Shop the giant gas deals for your bargains and get cheap or free gas. :)
Sharon says
Keep a written record of what you spend, this way you can look back and see if you were able to stick to a budget! And have an incentive when you reach your goals – my hubby treated me to a cruise this year as a reward for knocking over $400/month off our grocery bill.
Shawn Stevens says
Set a budget, when you go shopping make a list and only get what is on the list
Ashley H says
Make a list and stick to it.
Luigi says
We use the coupon matchup on the FTM website for grocery shopping and try to only buy items with coupons.
suzanne says
Never go to the grocery story hungry!! And don’t let hubby go. Man he comes home with bags and bags but only about 2 meals. Drives me crazy! :) Packing lunch for a week also helps a lot.
rachel garcia says
coupons! use them, search different ads and bargain shop!
Cheryl says
I always make out a menu based on what might be left in my home along with what is on sale, then go shopping. Also using an $5.00/week to build my stockpile and coupons. Right now I am working on crockpot freezer meals.
Judy says
I am strictly sale shopper. Match coupons to what is on sale each
Amy D. says
Use the internet to sub for the expensive pre-made things you normally buy: hot chocolate, detergent. It’s fun & cheaper!
carolyn says
I menu plan an entire month at a time, some times two which includes lunches for my husband. It of course, isn’t set in stone, top 3 reasons I do this.
#3) Entire families input on meals & avoids constant repeat meals
#2) Avoids impulse take out, which saves TONS of money
#1) Answers the OLDEST question in history, What’s for dinner?
Angela P says
shopping lists are a must and don’t
buy nothing that isn’t on the list.
Mary Jenkins says
Meat is so expensive. I’m a vegetarian so that saves money itself, but my husband loves meat. For him, I buy huge bulk packages of meat and split them up into one serving size portions and freeze. It saves cash and prevents wasting!
SherrieB says
Shop sales with coupons!! Try to look for marked-down meat early in the am and plan your meals around that.
Heather S says
Shop the sales at various stores. With 3 grocery stores and a walmart all within minutes of me, its worth it for me to do that. And when you are cleaning up dinner pack leftovers for lunch!
Jessica says
Make one night a week left over night. So even if you don’t have enough for an entire meal, everyone can have a little of something:)
Cheryl F. says
Never shop on an empty stomach. It encourages impulse spending.
Jessie C. says
Weekly menu plan and have a price book so you know the bottom line of the price.
Vicky F says
Try to cut down just a bit on the amount of meat you use in your meals – for example many recipes using a pound of ground beef for a 4 serving casserole turn out fine with just 3/4 pound and you hardly notice a difference. Healthier too!
Patricia Wojnar Crowley says
My tip is to pack lunch while you’re cooking dinner….that way, you’re already moving around the kitchen.
Hollie A says
Taking your lunch to work instead of eating out everyday will save tons of money!
Melody says
eat a decent breakfast so you don’t binge on expensive food for lunch
Linda Emel says
Read the weekly advertisements, make a weekly menu from sales and specials then shop with coupons.
kabby says
My family has a contest to see whose Brown bag can last the longest…they always bring them home all neatly folded…love it!
Amy M says
My tip would be to shop at Family Dollar
Kym says
Make a crockpot meal once a week- always cheaper and healthier to full up on lots of veges and little meat. Make a early by chili with lots of beans and diced veges.
nmv says
Match coupons with sale items in the flyer.
Debbie says
After a budget is set, take cash out for your groceries for the week/month and then only shop using that money. It’s easier to stick to the budget that way and makes you think before impulse buying. Eventually you can probably go back to using a card once you get into more of a routine. :)
Jen G says
Make a week of sandwiches on Sunday night! Then its just a quick grab and go in the morning!
Debbie says
That’s a great idea! :)
Alison says
Plan all meals a week ahead and follow FTM on Facebook! :)
marcie says
Start using mobile coupons they are the best!
Angela Nicholson says
Make a list before going shopping and stick to the list.
Peggy says
Plan Meals a week in advance by checking for sales and using coupons
Angela Nicholson says
Match up your coupons with the sale papers before going shopping. Remember that Walmart price match other competitors ads. Happy couponing!!!
Natalie says
Bag your own individual portions of side items from larger containers.
Paula says
Try to plan your menu for the entire week this will lessen the chance of spur of the moment trips to the store causing you to spend too much money.
Tanya fox says
Buy groceries that are on sale and use coupons. Share sales with friends.
Peggy says
plan your meals by the week, using as many coupons as possible
Michele says
Stock up on items when free or low prices. Donate to friends in need or organizations when its more than you need.
Grace says
Don’t go food shopping hungry :)
Sadie B. says
Use coupons on the things you can and pinch every penny.
lauren s says
Precook chicken breasts so you have it handy throughout the week to toss in salads or in a wrap. Good alternative to the usual sandwiches or frozen meals.
Vicky says
Subscribe to FTM emails and FB for great deals and coupons! ;)
brooke says
I always try to pack my lunch the night before and also remembering to pack it in containers that are microwavable and BPA free like Pyrex dishware that is microwave safe as well as dishwasher and leaves no residue and marks and that seems to melt after usage
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
When an item you use regularly is on sale, especially if it is an incredible price, stock up! This will save you from having to pay full price later.
Vicky says
Create a monthly budget — will motivate you to look for good deals and coupon more, thus helping you save money!
Vicky says
Create a monthly budget — will motivate you to look for good deals and coupon more, thus helping you save money!
Andrea says
Meal plan at least a week ahead of time.
Andrea says
Never shop hungry!
Susan Christy says
I never shop without a list.
Lee Ann Diehl says
I prepare my lunch the night before and having everything ready to go and the fiance makes his sandwich in the morning. Saves time and with less to do in the morning you are more likely to take your lunch.
Eric Mcdermott says
Share your saving strategies with your family and friends. Its rewarding to see loved ones save as well. My goal is too teach others what i’ve learned to show appreciation for those that taught me.
Cathleen Wagaman says
Prepare a weeks worth of sandwiches and wrap individually. Freeze them and take one out daily for lunch!
Pam says
Clip and use coupons!
Karen says
Start a savings plan and stick to it