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If you were to ask people what they felt they needed most, chances are, the universal answer would be time and money. These days, the uncertain nature of the economy makes everyone feel like they are short on time and money. You may not be able to add more hours to the day or miraculously get a lot more money, but some simple practices can save you a log of time and a huge amount of money.

Here are some tips to help you do so.

FOR NON FOOD PURCHASES -

*Shop on the Internet -

The Internet makes it possible to compare prices, look for deals and find places that sell at practically wholesale prices, and you never have to leave your home. If you are purchasing holiday gifts on the Internet, you can have your gift wrapped and shipped to your recipient and you won't have to pay tax on the purchase, and you won't have to pay to have it shipped twice: once to you and then to the intended recipient.

*Shop at outlets -

If you regularly shop at malls, go to outlet malls instead. Outlets offer you the opportunity to buy the same merchandise that you'd find at a regular store, but for considerably less. If you are lucky enough to find a sale, or even better, a clearance sale, you may wind up paying 10% of what you'd pay if you had to pay the full price.

*Use coupons -

Coupons aren't restricted to grocery purchases. Many retailers offer coupon discounts and you can print the coupon or type the code in when you make an online purchase. To find out what online retailers and what manufacturers are offering coupon discounts, check out Coupon Craze. The listings are updated daily.

*Check out warehouse and discount stores -

Costco, Sam's Club and other warehouse or discount stores often have fabulous deals. They buy their merchandise in massive quantities, so that is why they can offer the things they do have for so much less than regular retailers.

SHOPPING FOR FOOD -

*Plan ahead -

Check the store fliers weekly. Plan your menus according to what is available and what is on sale. By planning menus, you won't find yourself buying a lot of prepackaged or prepared foods that take less time to cook, but that cost three times as much as the real food.

*Make a list -

Always keep a list of what you need to buy. Shopping with a list will ensure that you purchase everything you need for the menus you have planned for the week. It will also help you steer clear of those impulse purchases that will make your bill shoot up in an instant.

*Carry a calculator -

Always shop with a pocket calculator. The calculator will ensure that you are vigilant about what you are buying and how much you are spending. If you normally have a budget for your shopping, a calculator will help you stick to it or stay below the maximum.

*Shop early and shop alone -

Avoid shopping with kids because they will get impatient and want stuff. They will put things in the cart without telling you and you will be distracted because of their constant bickering or demands for attention. Ultimately, you won't realize that the kids have put $50 worth of junk food in your grocery cart until after you get home.

Learn more about this author, Theresa Rose.
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