Advise clients to plan each shopping trip by making a list and sticking to it. Shopping lists can be organized according to the layout of a favorite grocery store to make shopping more efficient. Market research proves that the longer an individual stays in the store, the more money they spend. Most stores have a predictable sale cycle. For example, clients may be able to stock up at sales of canned goods or boneless chicken breasts every six weeks.
Coupons can save money on routine purchases and add extra savings on double and triple coupon days.
Advise clients to shop with their eyes open once inside the store. Grocery stores are designed so that high traffic areas such as dairy and meat are in the back of the store, which means passing through several aisles to reach them, perhaps picking up a few impulse items along the way. Note that grocers place the most expensive brands and impulse items at eye level. Cost-Wise Cooking Rediscovering the lost art of cooking is key if spending less and eating healthfully is a goal. Fast food, restaurant eating and convenience food do save time, but are also real budget-busters.