When finances get tight

How to keep a full stomach on an empty wallet

"When finances get tight, luxuries are the easiest and most obvious things to cut.

Not always so obvious is how to cut spending on the essentials, such as food. But with the price of what we eat predicted to soar at near historic levels this year, it's well worth looking for ways to cut spending."

This is so scary...

"This year the overall cost of food is expected to rise between 3 and 4 per cent, which is on top of a 4 per cent hike last year, the highest jump since 1990, according to U.S. federal data. Average years see increases of just 2 1/2 per cent."

I've definitely noticed it this year.

"Forcing yourself to use what you have is another good approach. Many people don't realize how much food is sitting in their pantries and cupboards. Forcing yourself to use those items before buying more can save plenty, Mills says."

It's also a great way to ensure you use up those items before they expire.

BEFORE YOU SHOP

"Use your budget to find spending areas that could be painlessly cut. Coffee on the road, for example."
No more wasting time (and gas) in line-up's at the local Tim Horton's every morning. This little habit can add up to hundreds of dollars a year. A better choice would be to buy a travel mug and bring your coffee from home (it will stay warm longer too!).

"Do regular pantry and refrigerator inventories. Knowing what you have prevents you from needlessly buying extra."
I don't know how many times I keep buying canned tomatoes and sauce just because they were on sale.

"Search out bakery discount stores."
This can be a real saver if you live near one and don't make your bread.