I am not a price lister. I don’t carry a list in my purse. I do have a rough idea of what I pay for items at different stores though in my head. Yes, I can’t remember the person’s name I just met but I can tell you approximate how much Gerber Puff snacks are Harris Teeter and Target. I then knew that the Sam’s Club price on a multi-pack was cheaper and worth getting while I was already there. That pretty much sums up how I price shop.
I pick an item and remember the price or the rough price and then look at the price the next store I go to. I only do this at the stores I regularly shop at. If I don’t go there on a regular basis, it isn’t worth remembering the price.
I know folks to carry lists in their purse of how much baby items cost at different stores. The only time I did this was pre-first baby and we priced out diapers. Now I know how much diapers cost at the place I shop when they full price and I know when they are on a good sale.
So my suggestion, the next time you go to the store pick an item on your list and remember the price. The next store you go to that sells the same item, check out the price there too. You will then know if you are buying it at the cheaper store. Remember to pick two stores you are in on a regular basis. Start small. Go for a package of diapers, canister of Tang, box of cereal, or even a cleaning product and flex your brain muscles.
Oh and remember, don’t expect me to remember your name but I will gladly tell you the best place to buy diapers or Tang!;)
Leave me a comment with how you remember prices at different stores or if you give this a try!
Wow..These are helpful tips.. I do pretty much the same things.. Plus, I know that we have a monthly budget for everything and so, keep track of good deals, coupons and stuff. Plus, if I see a good price cut on a product that is used a lot, I bulk buy:-)
These are great tips. I will try this next time I shop.