This required some thought … I would have to say that frugaphiles have the following in common:
Common Sense
Do you really need that? And do you really need it now? That is the question I often ask myself when I’m shopping – even at a dollar store. I know in some cases the answer is yes, you really do need that and no, you can’t wait until it’s on sale. However you just might be surprised at the things you do not buy when you ask yourself this question.
Do the research – even on the less expensive items such as running shoes, an electric toothbrush, paint, etc.
Definitely do the research on those bigger ticket items – a cell phone, laptop, a mattress, mountain bike, windows, etc.
There are even recommended times of the year to purchase certain things (e.g. new cars in December, a mattress in September).
Attentiveness
Be mindful of sales and coupons. For example, if you LOVE corn flakes and corn flakes are on sale, do you buy one box or two boxes? If the store allows you to buy four boxes, why are you not buying four boxes? I have a friend who loves corn flakes! When corn flakes are on sale she will buy five boxes because she doesn’t want to run out. Now that’s a smart cookie.
I understand if you live in an apartment it’s more difficult to stock up on your favorite items unless you are into hoarding corn flakes under your bed. But if you live in a house – there is no reason not to stock up on your favorite items when they are are on sale! I have dedicated shelves in my basement specifically for all the foods that I’m “stockpiling” (for lack of a better word) because I purchased them on sale. This especially comes in handy when there is an impending snow storm.
Resourcefulness
If you have a (bargain) outlet market in your neighborhood – check it out! Not all of them sell off brand items. Some outlet markets sell name brand items at reduced costs. I’ve gotten many delicious name brand items at my local outlet or bargain market.
I don’t always buy my pet food at a pet food retail chain. Sometimes you will find better deals on pet food at an outlet store or even the supermarket.
Need new tires – look for a coupon.
Like to read? You can borrow books from your local library – for FREE!
Sense of Adventure
I would have never known how much I enjoy plant-based products had I not purchased my first container of plant-based butter or the first package of plant-based burgers. You didn’t know you loved broccoli until you tried it, right? And snowboarding is now your favorite thing to do – aren’t you glad your friend invited you on that ski trip?
I love to eat. And I love trying new food. And lately I’ve been trying out a lot more plant-based products and dairy substitutes just because I feel better about eating these products. I’m in no way advocating that you shop this way. I am however suggesting that you remain open minded to trying new things. You may find that you like a lot of things that you never thought you would.
Everyone is a stranger until they are a friend right? Same notion can be applied to all new things.
Patience
This is something I lack for the most part – ask my friends – they will quickly agree! However when it comes to saving money I can be quite patient.
If you don’t need something right away but you could use it in the next two or three weeks or months – do some research, compare prices and be patient. Patience is key when purchasing new tech gadgets like smartphones, tablets and computers. That bike you have been wanting – can it be used? Or last years model? I have a a bike store minutes from my house that specializes in last years models. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are excellent tools to help you find those things you are searching for. Perhaps someone is getting rid of a patio set that would look great in your backyard. Someone else’s trash can become your treasure!