Thrifty Tips for Military Saves Week

By Stephanie Arredondo, Wives of Faith Board Treasurer

February 20-27, 2011 is the DOD’s official Military Saves Week where all active, reserve and guard are encouraged to save in any small or big way possible.  The America Saves slogan, “Start Small, Think Big,” is one way to have military families consider the long term benefits of saving a little each month.

James 4:6 says,  “But he gives us more grace.  That is why Scripture says God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” This scripture helps us keep in perspective how internal conflict (i.e.  I really want to buy this item now even though I can’t afford it) is an opportunity to follow God.  We may appear to be fine and well on the outside (i.e. nice house, nice car, nice clothes etc.) but struggle with regard to obey His will.  Regardless of income, rank, experience, wealth or possessions, it is important that we be good stewards of what we do have.

Thrifty Tips can abound in ways we least expect, and I am all for finding any way to save for my household. With budgets getting tighter and costs rising, our household finances are getting the squeeze.  Pray about your situation, talk with your spouse, and have a financial spending plan.  Then seek ways to save such as below.  We have a jar full of change that we are saving for a future trip to Disney World.  However your method, it is also good to remember what Benjamin Franklin said:  A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned!

Grocery Shopping – If you are a coupon queen, my hat is off to you!  My best was when I saved 60% on the food bill, but it took a lot of time and effort with my kids crying as I stood in the grocery aisle with my coupons.   Try to preplan your trip up and down the grocery aisles, especially if you have children in tow, and use this time as a way to minister to them (two for the price of one).  Don’t forget that once your coupon expires, it’s still good for 6 months after expiration date at overseas commissary stores (hence, stateside gals, if you don’t use it, save it and forward it to our Coups for Troops program!).

• The commissary runs specials and hands out coupons so be on the lookout for those deals.  Also, case lot sales are competitive with Costco, Sam’s, Aldi, and GFS.
• Track your top 10 purchases and their prices, then buy them when on sale.
• Stock up on items when on sale.  For example, pet food.  Most dry foods have a year-long shelf life, and canned foods are good for up to two years.
• Keep a grocery list handy.  That way you will remember all items you need to purchase in one trip while also sticking to the list.  No impulse buying! No kid whining!
• For children, explain to them that mommy and daddy are on a budget.  They will get enthusiastic about helping you save!

Eat Out – Retailers offer Kids Eat Free nights or a free coffee (McDonald’s recently offered this deal).  Check out your local newspapers for information on free deals.  Groupon is a nice option because you can save considerably on your eating-out bill.  If in uniform, there are restaurants willing to give a 50% discount with a military ID. Ask first, and if the discount is not given, be kind about it because usually they will say Thank You for your service to our country.  That is a wonderful gesture.

• Order water instead of a Diet Coke (unless they charge you for the water).
• For dinner, go out early to take advantage of the early deal and/or happy hour.
• Order and split it.  Portion sizes are huge, even the kid’s meals.
• Check your bill for any miscalculations or errors.  Correct prior to paying.
• Buying food to go and eating at home will save on your drink bill and gratuity.

Children – Child care is a huge expense today, and it is difficult to gauge the trade-off of cost vs. quality of care.  If you find other moms willing to do a sitter swap deal, that can help especially when family is not nearby.  Attending a mom’s group (such as MOPS)  or Bible study, there is often free child care provided, which means time for you.  Free admissions to local events or discount coupons for drop-in child care places are helpful.  There are churches that provide wonderful mother’s day out opportunities at an affordable option.  YMCA is affordable family fun, and financial assistance is available depending on your location.

Family Vacation – If you are seeking a military discount, it is worth your time to research Amheuser’s Here’s to the Heroes opportunity for the whole family.  Throughout 2011, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission.  My family and I did this at SeaWorld  San Antonio, and it was unbelievable the cost savings, not to mention the family lifelong memory. (Editor’s note: Sea World also provided discount coupons for a meal and a trip to the gift shop in addition to the free admission–what a nice surprise!)

Home Improvement – Lowe’s and Home Depot offer 10% military discount (not just on certain holidays).  With spring upon us and food prices mounting, these home improvement stores are already anticipating do-it-yourself-ers to plant gardens.  Grow a few tomato plants to save on your food bill.

Home Refinance – With mortgage rates at all-time lows in the past year, there are reputable mortgage lenders such as Wells Fargo offering military families a low fixed-rate refinance.

Insurance – It is wise for couples to review their insurance and update it periodically.  Health insurance costs are rising and perhaps there are other ways to reduce.  Auto insurance is a consideration especially if a vehicle is not going to be used during a deployment period.

Other Savings – Many retailers are struggling to make their sale quota.  Ask at the checkout counter for a military discount because many retailers will offer a 10% military discount in addition to the already reduced sale price.

These are just a few Thrifty Tips.  I am certain that there are many more.  Please share your recent military savings below.  Each part of the country and international locations offer a unique opportunity for military savings.

For more information about Military Saves Week, visit their website at www.militarysaves.org.

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