Comments on: How to avoid money drain

By: Stacey

Stacey — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:54:08 +0000

In reply to Jennifer. I definitely second going to thrift stores if you feel the need to browse without spending a lot (like at Target). There's much more interesting stuff to look at there, and even if you do buy one or two little things, it'd probably be at a much more reasonable price. You can always barter on flea market things, too, which is kind of fun.

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:57:01 +0000

Great tips. I need to find a good recipe to replace the frappuccinos at Starbucks, as those are my weakness, esp. now that it is hot. I also find that making a specific list before I go to stores really helps.

By: Kayla

Kayla — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:20:43 +0000

You could try visiting the library.

Our biggest drain is probably at the grocery store. We buy pop (soda) and beer on a regular basis and sometimes convenience foods like frozen pizza. About 1-2X per week we like to “cheat” since neither of us feel like cooking after a long day of work.

By: Kacie

Kacie — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 03:12:44 +0000

ME TOO. I can be really good, and then I can be really, really bad with splurges and walking into Target and walking out with a lot less money. It can stink.

You can still browse if you leave your debit card/whatever in your glove box or at home maybe! You can think about a thing and go to the car or home to get your money if you really neat it.

Or, there’s always the cash budgeting system for certain budget items. I fail at that regularly, but sometimes it can be helpful for blow-it money.

Also, you really x100 need to go to thrift stores! Some are dirty and gross. Some are amazing. I am willing to bet there are some truly great stores in your area. You can find some great furniture and refinish it and make it better than a new piece, for isntance. And craiglist your way to a riding lawnmower. Time to get creative!