These days, the dollar doesn’t stretch as far as it once did. Inflation, the general increase in the cost of everyday items, has gradually decreased everyone’s purchasing power. Unfortunately, inflation can impact many areas of your life. Although you can’t control inflation, you can adjust your spending and get control of your budget. Here are a few tips to make things easier.
Plan your meals ahead of time
Plan out your meals for the week before you go to the grocery store. Review your recipes and make a list of what ingredients you have at home and the ones you need to add to your grocery list. The key is to stick to the list! Here are some budget-friendly recipes from members just like you!
More meal planning tips
Consider items with a long shelf life and versatility, such as peanut butter, rice, beans, potatoes, and canned or frozen veggies.
Download the grocery store’s app to your phone and place an order for pick up to avoid impulse purchases and expensive snack foods.
Fresh fruits and vegetables cost less when they’re in season! Purchase them when they’re cheap and freeze them for future use.
Leverage handy apps
Comparison shopping is especially important when prices are on the rise. Look for gas apps that spot the lowest price at a pump near you.
Adjust your thermostat
Try turning down your thermostat when you’re sleeping or away from home. According to energy.gov, “you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.” Also, consider installing an automatic setback or programmable thermostat so that you can make these adjustments without sacrificing comfort.1
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Paper towels are pricey. Consider switching to washable towels for mess cleanup. It’s better for the environment, too!
Implement the one-in-one-out rule to avoid having duplicate items in your grocery haul. In order to keep track of your pantry stock items, you can keep a notepad near your pantry or keep track on an app on your phone. This way, you’re not accidentally purchasing items you don’t really need right now.
Sell items you no longer need on secondhand marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark. Likewise, consider using those tools to purchase new-to-you items for yourself or your family. The thrill of the hunt can be fun!
Bulk up
Some items are less expensive when purchased in bulk. Look to save on bulk items like toilet paper, diapers, pet food, freezer bags, batteries, paper towels, and canned goods. Tip: check the per-unit price vs. the sticker price to see whether a bulk deal is really worth it.2
2onegoodthingbyjillee.com/what-to-buy-in-bulk
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