• 7 Sneaky Costco Hacks to Save Money - Genymoney.ca

    When it comes to saving money on groceries and household items, Costco is often a go-to destination. However, even seasoned shoppers can miss out on substantial savings if they don’t know a few insider tips. Here are seven sneaky hacks to help you maximise your budget at Costco.

    1. Shop During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid the weekend rush to benefit from a quieter shopping experience and better stock availability. Shopping during less busy times can also mean fresher produce.

    2. Know the Return Policy: Costco has a generous return policy that allows you to return items, even electronics, long after the purchase date. Keep your receipts to maximise your savings.

    3. Leverage the Costco App: The Costco app not only helps you find deals but also enables you to monitor your membership and access digital coupons exclusively available to app users.

    4. Buy Seasonal Items in Bulk: Take advantage of seasonal sales and stock up on items you use frequently. This reduces the cost per unit and can save you money in the long run.

    5. Sample Like a Pro: Don’t overlook the samples! Enjoying free samples not only fills you up as you shop but can also guide you in making informed purchasing decisions.

    6. Check the Clearance Section: Look out for items marked with a yellow tag. These are typically on clearance and can offer significant savings, often because the products are being phased out.

    7. Negotiate for Discounts: If you’re buying in bulk or purchasing a high-ticket item, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount. Costco employees can often help you find ways to save.

    By employing these simple yet effective hacks, you can transform your Costco shopping trips from merely cost-effective to downright economical. Happy shopping!

  • Saving money on kids' clothes can be both easy and rewarding. First, consider shopping at outlet stores and discount retailers, where you can find brand-name items at a fraction of the original price. Additionally, check for end-of-season sales; buying winter gear in late spring or summer clothing in autumn can yield significant savings.

    Another clever tip is to organise clothing swaps with friends or community groups. This is a fun way for children to refresh their wardrobes without spending a penny. You might also explore second-hand shops and online marketplaces, where you'll often find high-quality items for much less than retail prices.

    Don't forget to take advantage of sales events and loyalty programmes that stores offer. Signing up for newsletters can give you early access to promotions and exclusive discounts. Lastly, investing in a few versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched will help you make the most out of those savings, ensuring your little ones stay stylish without breaking the bank!

  • During the recent heatwave, we embraced our frugal lifestyle with open arms, finding clever ways to stay cool without breaking the bank. Instead of cranking up the air conditioning, we transformed our living space into a delightful oasis using simple hacks. We closed all the curtains during the day to block out the sun's scorching rays, creating a blissful, shaded environment.

    We also filled a spray bottle with cold water and kept it in the fridge, which became our go-to refresher on particularly sweltering afternoons. Ice cubes made from leftover coffee and herbal teas provided a surprisingly delightful twist to our drinks, turning what could have been a mundane hydration routine into something a bit more special.

    For outdoor activities, we sought refuge in local parks, armed with our trusty picnic blanket and homemade snacks. It was an opportunity to enjoy nature while keeping our expenses low. And of course, we teamed up with friends for a potluck barbecue, sharing the cost of food and drinks while basking in the sun.

    Overall, we found that even amidst the heat, frugality can lead to creativity and joy, ensuring that we stayed cool, connected, and conscious of our spending.

  • Extreme couponing has become a popular way for savvy shoppers to save substantial amounts of money on their grocery bills. For beginners looking to dive into this money-saving phenomenon, it can seem a bit daunting at first. The key lies in organisation and strategy. Start by gathering a variety of coupons from newspapers, magazines, and online sources. Websites and apps specifically designed for couponing can also provide a wealth of resources.

    Once you have a collection of coupons, create a well-organised binder to keep track of them. Categorise your coupons by type or by the layout of your local supermarket to streamline your shopping trips. It’s also essential to plan your shopping around sales and promotions; many retailers offer double or triple coupon days, which can dramatically increase your savings.

    Additionally, learn to stack coupons—using a store discount along with a manufacturer’s coupon on the same item is a powerful strategy. However, always check your store’s policy on coupon use to avoid any surprises at the checkout.

    Finally, remember that patience is key. Extreme couponing isn’t just about getting items for free; it’s about building a sustainable habit that can lead to significant savings over time. With practice, dedication, and a bit of research, you can transform your shopping experience and enjoy the thrill of the chase.