Shopping tips

• Take a list and stick to it – it’s the key to avoiding impulse buying.
• Join the store’s loyalty programme – Fly Buys or One Card – to take advantage of discounts.
• Take advantage of multi-buys or stock up on good specials, even if you don’t need the items immediately.
• Does the special really offer you something? Or is it on a more expensive brand than you would normally buy? Don’t buy it just because it’s a “bargain”.
• Check the unit prices of items – smaller sizes are sometimes cheaper than the larger size.
• Don’t go shopping when you’re hungry. With a full stomach you’re less susceptible to the free samples and promotions designed to tempt you with extra purchases.
• Get to know your local supermarket layout so you avoid temptations (see our interactive supermarket layout to see how supermarkets manipulate your shopping experience to tempt you to spend more).

Report by Bev Frederikson.