Question: How can I shop only once a month if I don’t have the storage space? I would like to be able to do this, but only have one refrigerator/freezer.


Answer: It’s time to get creative and “invent” storage space.


Some ideas include:

• Put cardboard boxes or plastic bins in available spaces. Store canned foods under a bed. Convert unused closet space to food storage shelves.
  
• Build mini-shelves under your bathroom sinks to store more toilet paper and personal care items.
  
• Stack wooden crates on their sides to store canned goods, and cover them with a table cloth to make an end table.
  
• Freezer space is a little tougher. Repackage prepackaged foods to take up less space. We slice and repackage bulk meat so it is more compact and easier to use.
  


If efficiency isn’t one of your strengths, ask an organized friend to come over and evaluate options with you.


If these ideas don’t provide enough space, you may need to make a mid-month supplemental shopping trip for perishable items. With some planning, you’ll be stocking your pantry from floor to ceiling and saving “big time” at the grocery store.

Learn more about our many grocery / money saving strategies in our audio CD: Stretching Your Grocery Dollars Without Becoming a Coupon Queen