When to Shop

by Eliza Ferree | More from this Blogger

I have something to confess to my readers. Ready to hear it? I swear you are not going to believe this but it is true. I hate to shop, that's right I hate it. I can't stand going into crowded places. I hate it so much that it gets me into some type of panic mode, by the end of it I'm getting the shakes and really dizzy that I need a soda. Ever happen to you? Well, as you can imagine, I don't like to shop which means the hubby does most of it for me.

Over the years I have learned so much about the military and that includes when to do shopping, if I need anything. The best time to shop for food at the commissary is the week after payday and never on a Tuesday as they are restocking. Of course, some like to go bright and early on Tuesday since nothing will be out but it better be early otherwise you'll hit every crowd possible.

Where I am now, the commissary is closed on Monday. Tuesday is the restocking day and of course it'll be the busiest lines on a payday. Try avoiding this day at all cost by stocking up when you go long enough that you won't have to go until a few days after payday. If you are able to hold off a week before the next payday it'll be just about empty. You are probably wondering why it is less crowded on this day. The simple answer is everyone is running out of money by now and waiting for payday to get their groceries. Yes, even the military must live paycheck to paycheck. This is my favorite time to shop as I don't have to worry about crowds.

They say that the commissary is the cheapest place to shop, however that is not always the case. If you can find out if a store near you is cheaper on certain items and get those items there and the rest of your food at the commissary. I've learned diapers are cheaper at walmart, however most food I get at the commissary.

Now that you know the days to shop and not to shop, may you have a great trip. Hopefully your experience will be much better than mine.

More tips on saving money:

How to Save Money on Groceries

How to Save Money on Bread

What Types of Food are Frugal Friendly

Learn more about Eliza Ferree

Eliza Ferree is a military wife and mother to three children and currently pregnant with #4. Growing up as a "Military Brat" and marrying into the Marine Corps she's known no other life.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger