How to stretch your shopping dollars - Your Life - Brief Article

Consumer advocate Robyn Spizman, labeled the "Super Shopper? provides the following tips for helping families save with style. Consumers may test their own shopping smarts by visiting the Parenting Channel on www.clubmom.com.

* Watch for hidden costs. Something may seem like a great deal in the store, but the care or use of the item may require additional costs that can really add up.

* Shop in your closet first. Make lists of what is in cabinets and closets before shopping to prevent buying duplicates or overspending on unnecessary items.

* Reexamine brand names. The most-expensive brand isn't always the best product. Discount retailers offer name-brand clothing for less. Prices may vary on grocery items due to fancy labeling or packaging.

* Comparison shop to identify the brands that will work best, yet are cost-effective. This saves time at the store and helps families get the most for their money.

* Head-off hunger. Feed the kids before taking them grocery shopping. It will help avoid unnecessary "I'm hungry and want something now!" impulse buys.

* Bring a cash stash. People tend to spend more when they are paying by credit card, so use cash instead.

* Know where the money goes. Keep a cash log to track what is being spent each month.

* Reach out and touch someone. Call the telephone company every six months to ask about special rates and offers.

* Buy in bulk. The price per ounce is often cheaper, especially for such items as toilet paper and laundry detergent.

COPYRIGHT 2002 Society for the Advancement of Education
COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group