Read the text and choose the correct answers for the questions below.
How to save when you shop
Have you ever bought something that you never wore or used after? Or bought something and then found it cheaper somewhere else? If so, you are not alone! Here is how to save money when you shop.
"The most typical way people waste money is on 'impulse buys' — buying things they hadn’t planned to buy. It sounds obvious, but if you want to save money, make a list of what you need \(not everything you want\!\) before you leave. Only buy those things. "I can’t believe how much I’ve saved since I started sticking to my shopping list," says 14-year-old Ashley. "Plus, I get more pleasure from the things I do buy."
Only taking the money you need is a great way to make sure you don’t overspend. "After buying the things I planned to get, I have no money left, so I go home," explains 14-year-old Brad. "Before, I used to spend all my money at once. Taking just the amount I need helps me budget. This way, I have money left at the end of the month — and I still go shopping as frequently."
Before you buy, especially if it’s a big item like a new phone or video game, compare prices in various places to see which is cheapest. "In shops, I use my phone," says Amy, 16. "There are some good apps for shoppers, for example I use ShopSave. With it, you can take a photo of a bar code to compare prices, find reviews and special offers. I use the information to decide whether to buy something or not. I also look online. You can find bargains if you’re prepared to do the research. It’s worth it!"
Buy things second-hand! "I go to charity shops and car boot sales to buy books," says Dani. "It’s far cheaper and better for the environment too because it reduces rubbish. I get most of my clothes in vintage shops. They look really cool.
If you’re unsure about something, don’t buy it. If you still want it the next day or next week, then go back and get it. When you do buy things, keep receipts and boxes, and don’t remove price tags until you’re ready to use something – that way, if you change your mind, you can return the item.
Buying things out of season saves you money — for example, coats are cheaper in summer. The sales can be a good time to buy, but only if you buy things you really need, not just because they’re bargains! "I wait for the sales to buy good-quality things that I couldn’t afford otherwise," says Jenny. "I even buy Christmas presents in the January sales!"
1. What is a good way to save money when you shop? ...
2. What can you do to save money on clothes? ...
3. What is a good way to save money on big items like a new phone? ...
4. Why is it a good idea to keep receipts and boxes for things you buy? ...
5. What is a good time to buy a winter coat? ...