Back when I was new to frugal shopping, I had big ideas and high hopes for saving a ton of money while obtaining lots of things. I think everyone who decides to live frugally has big expectations at first, only to find out quickly that it’s a little harder than it looks. I only wish I had had a few of these apps back then – I wouldn’t have felt so foolish when I thought I had found a great deal.
At that time, I pretty much solely shopped at Walmart. My tiny world was limited in variety and sales. However, one day, I decided to shop at Save A Lot, because you know, I could save a lot. Anyhow, as I was wandering through the store, I came upon a “sale.” My family loves those 4-packs of pudding, and they had them marked as 10 for $10. I thought, “Wow! What a deal!” and loaded my cart with ten packs. I was feeling pretty proud of myself when I left the store.
My next stop was Walmart for a few things Save A Lot didn’t have, and guess what I discovered?
Walmart had the same exact product for $.98 a pack. Now, two cents certainly wasn’t going to make or break me, but you can imagine my disappointment. If only I had had an app that would let me comparison shop without actually having to drive all over the countryside.
Saving money while shopping can be difficult. You have to plan ahead, watch sales, and know where you’re going to get what in order to make the trip worth while. I’ve compiled a list of smartphone apps that can help you do just that, so you’re sure to save as much as possible when shopping for groceries and more. Without further ado, here are the top 5 apps to help you be a frugal shopper.
5. RedLaser
Want to know if the item you’re buying is cheaper somewhere else? Scan its barcode and this app will compare prices so you can decide which store (online or off) you want to buy the item at. You can also scan your loyalty cards into your phone so you always have them! Available for iPhone and Android.
4. Price Check by Amazon
If you’re like me, you know Amazon is a great place to find good deals. However, if you’re out and about and are wondering if you can get an item cheaper on Amazon, this handy-dandy app will tell you. All you have to do is scan the item’s barcode into the app and voila! Available for iPhone and Android.
3. Snip Snap
This little gem give extreme couponing a whole new meaning. Cutting, sorting and carrying coupons is a pain (but worth it!). With this app, you can snap photos of your coupons, enter them into the app’s database, and it’ll remind you when you enter a store which coupons you have available for that store. The cool thing about this app is you can share your couponing activity with friends via Facebook and Twitter. Available for iPhone and Android.
2. Shopkick
I like Shopkick because not only does it tell you the best deals available in my local stores, it gives me “Kicks,” or reward points, that I can trade for gift cards or free products. Available for iPhone and Android.
1. Grocery Pal
Grocery Pal lets you see sales circulars for all your local stores so you can compare and save without ever leaving your home. It also lets you add coupons to your shopping list so you’re sure to never forget to use them. Available for iPhone and Android.
Saving money when shopping is a labor of love. Once you see the savings, it’s hard to shop the “old way” again. Use these great apps to make it easier to find the things you want or need and save money while you’re at it.
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