I couldn't fill in for JLP for a whole week and not discuss my new favorite hobby, The Drugstore Game. In a nutshell, The Drugstore Game is the ultimate combination of sales, store coupons, manufacturer coupons, and store rewards programs to pay pennies on the dollar for the things you need. I now only buy toothpaste, toothbrushes and shampoo if they're free. And I spend just a fraction of what I used to spend on other necessities like toilet paper, diapers, and laundry detergent.
I wrote a guest post for Get Rich Slowly that explains The Drugstore Game in more detail, and also explains how to get started. I freely admit that the game isn't for everyone, even if they really need to save money. What's occurred to me recently, though, is that if you know you wouldn't enjoy the game but have a friend who does, ask if they'll shop for you. You can offer newspaper coupons, printable coupons, and even gift cards in return. Most Drugstore Game players build up a substantial stash of toiletries and other items that they are happy to share. And having extra coupons and especially gift cards makes it easier to get the best deals, so I think it's a pretty fair trade.
If you're interested in more on The Drugstore Game, you can read my related posts at Chief Family Officer and CFO Reviews. I recently listed a few new sources of Drugstore Game info and some coupon tips at CFO. I also try to post at least one weekly scenario at CFO Reviews, as well as quick updates on deals.
I've even discovered a bonus to playing The Drugstore Game. Some of the sites I read list the weekly deals at Target and grocery store chains. I've picked up items that were free after coupons at Target, and I never would have known about these bargains if not for The Drugstore Game.
One big concern in the comments on my guest post at Get Rich Slowly was time - as in, it takes too much time to cut coupons, plan deals, and go shopping. And for some people, that may be true. Personally, I find it extremely convenient because I have two young boys who need to get out of the house, and we can't go to the park all the time. I do think I'll probably play The Drugstore Game less often when my kids are older, but for the time being, it really fits my lifestyle.
And it doesn't hurt that so far this month at CVS, I've gotten premium brand toilet paper, paper towels, diapers, wipes, cleaning supplies, toothbrushes, mouth wash and more without spending a penny. I've paid with CVS gift cards that I acquired for free and store rewards coupons. In the first half of this month, I've saved my family over $120 by shopping at CVS. And I didn't have to pay income taxes on that $120.
What do you think of The Drugstore Game?
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