Day 2 — Use a Perpetual Shopping List to Stop Wasteful Buying

​Buy What You Need, Not What You Think You Might Need

​How often have you come home from the supermarket with another tin, jar or packet, only to find two more already in the cupboard?

Or discovered you are out of something important because you meant to write it down but forgot?

A perpetual shopping list is one of the simplest and most effective Cheapskates tools.

It is a shopping list that stays in one place and is updated as things run low.

Not when you have completely run out.

Not when you are standing in the supermarket trying to remember.

As soon as you notice something will soon need replacing, write it down.

Why It Works
A perpetual shopping list helps you avoid:
• Buying duplicates 
• Forgetting essentials 
• Emergency convenience trips 
• Paying full price because you ran out 
• Filling the trolley with “just in case” purchases 
• Buying specials you do not actually need
 
It also gives you time to watch for a good price on genuine household needs.

That is calm shopping.

That is controlled shopping.

And it is much easier on the budget.

Today’s Challenge
Start or refresh your perpetual shopping list.

Choose one place to keep it:
• On the fridge 
• Inside the pantry door 
• In your handbag 
• In your planner 
• On your phone 
• On a small whiteboard in the kitchen
 
Then do a quick check of your:
• Pantry 
• Fridge 
• Freezer 
• Bathroom cupboard 
• Laundry cupboard 

Only write down what is genuinely getting low or will be needed soon.

Today is not about stocking up for the sake of it.
It is about knowing what your home actually needs.

Your Savings Tally
If your improved list stops you buying only two or three unnecessary items this week, you may save $5 to $15.
Add that amount to your challenge tally.

Find More Help in the Hub
Take a look at:
• Pantry and freezer inventory printables 
• The Super Shopper resources 
• Price book tips 
• How to Build Your Stockpile 
• Household management tips in the Tip Store 

Where do you keep your shopping list so you actually use it?
Share your best system — paper, phone, fridge list, whiteboard or something else entirely.