After shopping locally for a few weeks I have found that shopping at a discount store definitely saves money. If I make the trip and take the time I save money going to the discount. Even though it is not convenient.
I usually block out about two hours to go to the discount store. If it ends up taking less time, that is just a bonus. I have to drive. But on the outside it costs about $2. And as I do not have a social agenda, I have the time.
You have to pick up your own things. You have to bag your own goods. Big deal. I can do that. Instead of bagging in the store I just take the cart to the car. I put all the small items in laundry baskets. I do not worry about bagging anything big like milk, potatoes, detergent, paper towels, tp, etc. It is easy to take in that way.
If I go once a month and shop big I really come out. As I am planning ahead with a list. As we develop a pattern as to what we use. Today's trip cost some money. But a little over twice as much as a couple little bags cost me at my store. I should not have to buy a lot of things for over a month.
A once a month trip to stock up on staples saves money. You just stock up on the big things and if you have to buy little things during the month so mote it be.
I have found that I can save on the little things. Spices, crackers, chips, condiments, dry goods like flour and also cooking oil. Olive oil is at least half the price. Maybe it isn't the best brand, but it is olive oil.
I can still get the things that you need and use up quickly at my store. They are a little higher though. The major thing is that you can cook at home and make leftovers for work lunches.
As I am not on food stamps I cannot demand fresh food and eat $8 sub sandwiches. You can make so many great things at home. With a little effort. But you have to put forth that effort. I know it takes time away from your social media. And telephone time too.
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