In the vast and beautiful state of Alaska, where life comes with its own set of challenges, one thing is clear - living here is not cheap. Kimberly Greiff, an advocate for saving, shows us how to make every penny count. A study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that Alaskans spent nearly $13k more than the average American household in 2022 - 23. Greiff, known as "Kim the Cheap," is the admin of Couponing For Beginners Anchorage, a Facebook group that brings together shoppers in search of the best deals.Coupon Books: A Great Way to Save
When it comes to going out to eat or entertaining guests from out of town, local coupon books are a game-changer. Greiff recommends purchasing cards from high school students or using the Alaska airlines travel book for tourist destinations. These coupon books offer significant discounts and help stretch your budget.For example, imagine planning a dinner out with friends. With a local coupon book, you might get a 20% discount on the bill or a free appetizer. It's these small savings that add up over time and make a big difference in your wallet.Value Rack and Clearance Rack: Finding Hidden Gems
Greiff always keeps an eye on the value rack and clearance rack. She believes that there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. By double-checking for things on the last chance sale, she has filled her freezer with items tagged with sale stickers.Let's say you're shopping for groceries. You notice an item on the clearance rack that you usually buy at full price. By purchasing it at a discounted rate, you can save a significant amount of money. It's like finding a treasure chest in the middle of the store!Going Out to Eat: A Smart Holiday Choice
Contrary to what one might think, Greiff plans to avoid holiday meal prep and the associated expenses. Instead, she opts to dine out with her family at $50 per person. This not only saves her time and effort but also allows her to support local businesses.By choosing to eat out during the holidays, she can enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of cooking and cleaning. Plus, she gets to create memories with her family while helping the local economy thrive.Frugal Living: Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Greiff has always been frugal, even going as far as rationing out chips in tiny plastic bags for her five children to save for her first house. These small things add up and make a significant impact on your finances.For instance, instead of buying new items, consider repairing or repurposing what you already have. It's a simple yet effective way to save money and reduce waste.In conclusion, Kimberly Greiff's saving strategies show us that even in an expensive state like Alaska, there are ways to make our money go further. By using coupon books, shopping the value and clearance racks, and making smart choices when it comes to going out to eat, we can all save money and live more frugally. Remember, every penny counts and there are always ways to be smart with your finances.
