Super Savers

  America is a nation full of Goldilocks: we want to try out things before we commit to buying. Most of us, by default, reserve the experience for big-ticket items like cars, mattresses, and TVs. But the savvy Super Saver knows that this principle can apply to nearly everything we buy. Expanding your "try before you buy" mindset can help you make informed purchases, avoid buyer’s remorse, and save money. Here are a few creative ways to test the waters before diving in. Free Trials: A Sneak Peek Without the Price Tag We’ve all taken advantage of free samples at the grocery store or watched the first 10 minutes of a popular streaming show before being asked to pay. These are classic examples of free trials—companies give you a taste of their product in hopes that you’ll commit to the full experience. But free trials aren’t just for food and entertainment. Warehouse Clubs & Gyms – Tag along with a friend to get an inside look at a warehouse club or gym before deciding if ...

  As Valentine’s Day approaches, I realized I’ve never experimented with using AI to plan an event. So, in my ongoing quest to find practical, everyday uses for Generative AI, I decided to try planning a Galentine’s event for two. Here’s how it went! Getting Started Not knowing where to begin, I let ChatGPT (free version) guide me. I set my parameters to prioritize low-cost or free options, ensuring suggestions stayed budget-friendly. From food and decorations to activities, the chatbot offered a variety of affordable ideas. Girls’ Night In or Out? I couldn’t decide between a cozy night in or a fun night out, so I asked ChatGPT to create an itinerary that included both. Here’s what it came up with: Sample Itinerary: 5:00 PM – Fancy(ish) Dinner : Find a restaurant with a prix fixe menu. 7:00 PM – Pop Culture Adventure : Find a fun, budget-friendly activity. 8:30 PM – Sweet Treats Stop : Shop for DIY ice cream dessert bar ingredients. 9:00 PM – Cozy Night In : Watch a feel-good f...

  Finding good deals on healthier foods can feel like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie. The treasures — deals that are both budget-friendly and diet-appropriate — aren’t sitting out in the open. Instead, they’re tucked away behind research, riddles, and a willingness to explore. Rather than throw in the towel halfway through, let me be your trusty guide to navigating the health food jungle. Do Your Research: Know Before You Go Indiana Jones didn’t dive into jungles or deserts without preparation. He spent hours poring over books, maps, and ancient texts. Health food shopping requires similar preparation. Before heading to the store, do your research : Browse sales flyers to spot deals ahead of time. Look for coupons and rebates online or through store apps. Take inventory of what you already have at home. Make a list. Much like Indy’s notebook, your list keeps you focused and helps avoid costly distractions. Solve the Discount Riddle: Stack Your Savings In "India...

  January is National Store Brand Month, a time to spotlight the unsung heroes of shopping—store brands. Think of store brands today as the dubbed version of your favorite foreign feature film: same story, different label. Gone are the days when these brands were merely the cover band to a name-brand rockstar; now they’re hitting all the right notes. Choosing store brands over name brands isn’t just a savvy move—it’s a budget-conscious strategy that delivers quality and value. Here are five reasons why you should consider swapping to store brands: 1. Significant Cost Savings Store brands typically save you 15-30% compared to name brands. These savings add up, especially for families and frequent shoppers. Retailers cut back on advertising and fancy packaging, passing those savings straight to your cart. 2. Comparable Quality Many store-brand products are made by the same manufacturers as their name-brand counterparts. From pantry staples to over-the-counter medications, the quali...

  We’ve all been there, Super Savers—receiving a gift that, while thoughtful, doesn’t quite hit the mark. Whether it’s an extra toaster from your wedding registry or that holiday sweater that’s more cringe than cozy, there’s no need to stress. With a bit of creativity and tact, you can handle those unwanted gifts with grace and purpose—and maybe even a bit of profit! Give It Away If the gift isn’t your style, why not pass it along to someone who will cherish it? Here are some savvy ways to make it happen: Regift It : That book you snagged during the office White Elephant exchange? Wrap it up for your cousin’s birthday—especially if they’re a voracious reader. Donate It : Charitable organizations are often thrilled to receive brand-new items. Whether it’s an unused kitchen gadget or a pair of winter boots that don’t fit, your unwanted gifts could make someone else’s day. Share the Wealth : For easily sharable items, like gourmet gift baskets, consider leaving them in the of...