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True Meaning of 'Frugal'

Being frugal doesn't have to take a lot of work. Patch columnist Tori MacLennan shares some of the easy ways she saves money.

 

Most people have their own idea of what it means to be frugal, and I have found that there are many ways to enact the true meaning of the word. 

Some believe that being frugal means shopping in thrift stores or cutting your own hair, while others believe being frugal means not buying anything at full price.

"Frugal" is different for everyone, but there isn't a right or wrong way to do it. No matter what degree of frugal you are comfortable with, you can save money, cut corners or just become more aware. 

Here are some no-hassle frugal living tips you can use every day.

Grocery Savvy

Stick to a list. I always keep a couple of notepads on the fridge. I write down things as we run out, and I try not to stray from the list. I make a list for each store I plan to go to. I plan meals for the week and make enough for leftovers for the next day or to freeze for the next week. 

A common but true tip: don't go to the grocery store when you are hungry. You will end up straying from your list and buying junk food.

Children’s Stuff

I can't think of a single reason to pay full price for children's clothing. No matter where you like to buy your kids' clothes, there are coupons and sales available. Always check online for printable coupons or coupon codes. 

Also, if you sign up for the store's mailing list, you will often be the first to know about sales. Plan ahead when possible and buy clothes on clearance at the end of the season. But beware where you shop. I once went into a children's used clothing store and found clothes that were from Target for the same price they were purchased for at Target.

Go Generic

Companies are making generic versions of just about everything, from diapers to beans. Give the generic brand a shot, and you could save money. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications come in generic forms. The FDA regulates generic and name brand medications with the same standards. The quality, strength and purity of the generic brand must be the same as its name-brand counterpart. Prices are generally much cheaper. 

If you prefer to buy name brands, that is fine, too. Beware: don’t buy medication from the too-good-to-be-true e-mail you just received. The e-mail is likely spam.

Go Green

Stop buying bottled water. Invest in a BPA-free reusable water bottle and a water filtration system. Pur Water Filtration makes dispensers that fit in your fridge or systems for your kitchen faucet. The filters go on sale from time to time, and you can often find printable coupons on the Internet. You save yourself money in the long run and help the environment.

For Sale

We all have stuff we no longer want or use, so why not make a buck or two? Have a garage sale and get rid of all the stuff that is just taking up space. Whatever you have left over after the sale can be donated—just don't forget to get a receipt for tax purposes.

About this column: We're all watching our family budgets these days. Whether shopping with coupons or looking for two-for-one deals, we'll share how to take advantage of local offers and savings in this column each week.
How do you define "frugal?" Tell us in the comments.

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