When a Sale is Really a Sale

You’re at the mall or the grocery store and you see a big sale sign. That sale may be on an item that you want or even something that you need, but before you give in to the sale, consider these tips:

What’s the Deal?

The terms and conditions are part of every sale process, so make sure to consider these before committing to a purchase. If you have to buy the item in bulk to receive a discount, know that bigger or more is not always better. These types of sales are generally found in grocery or discount stores, where the cost per unit is printed on the store tag. To determine a real deal, divide the price by the cost per unit. If the price for the regular size item is the better deal, go for that and pass on the bulk.

Buy One, Get One

This sale, conveniently coined BOGO for the buy one get one offer, is another popular sales offer in the retail industry and one that shoppers automatically assume is a good deal, and it may be. But before you grab and go, scrutinize the deal.

Buy One, Get a Discount on Another

Retailers and grocers love this offer, but beware. More often than not, the cost of the item is hidden in the promotional price, so be sure to consider the cost per unit of the item, then compare it with like items in the store to see if there are real savings.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Plan an Affordable Family Vacation

Lazzy Feet on a Blue Ocean Beach vacation

Image by epSos.de via Flickr

One of the many cost-saving measures families have taken as of late include forgoing the annual vacation, opting to stay at home instead of heading to a destination to relax and enjoy a few days away from the routine.

And while there are many ways to enjoy a vacation at home, whether it means just taking a few days to relax, catch up on projects or enjoy some of the local flavor and amenities that are in your own backyard or town, many people feel like a real vacation means a getaway, not a few days in their hometown.

So if you’re tired of the staycation and in need of a real break, with a little budgeting and planning, an affordable family vacation could be well within your reach.

Where to Stay

Hotels and motels can get pricey, so consider alternatives such as a B&B or renting an apartment or condo for the duration of your trip. Rentals are great because they usually come equipped with a kitchen, so you can cut down on food costs by making use of the kitchen and going to the local supermarket.

When to Go

To get the most savings, make sure you choose a vacation time that doesn’t conflict with a major holiday or your destinations’ peak season. For instance, if you are planning a vacation to a warm destination, it’s generally cheaper to go in the warmer months than it

 

 

Enhanced by Zemanta