Beware of Buying in Bulk - Being an Attentive Shopper

If you are like me, you have probably heard more times than you can count, "it pays to buy in bulk".  Store's like Sam's Club make their money off of that idea but I am here to tell you that buying in bulk can actually cost you more and I am not just talking about the importance of couponing.  I buy a few things at Sam's, but because they don't take coupons, a lot of times I can get it cheaper elsewhere.  But don't stop reading if you're not a couponer because assuming bulk is a better deal can cost you in the long run.

Why am I writing this blog?  Because on a recent shopping trip I was shocked to see bulk products costing more than buying individual!  I think company's are catching on and preying on the unaware.  So here is why I say "Beware of Buying in Bulk"

Ok, if you notice the picture above, and individual pack of huggies wipes is $1.97, and 3 pack is $6.44 so for those non math people out there, you can buy 3 individual packs for $5.91 or the bulk 3 pack for $6.44.  You might be thinking "well the bulk pack probably has more in it."  Sad to say, they didn't.  They were identical packs of wipes so here's the break down:

• Non Couponers - You save $0.53 just by purchasing the individual packs.
• Couponers - If you have a standard "Save $0.50 off 1 huggie's wipes" you could use 3 coupons (1 on each individual wipe) and pay $4.41 for 3 individual packs or use 1 coupon on the bulk pack and pay $5.94 for 3 packs (THAT'S STILL $0.03 MORE THAN BUYING INDIVIDUAL!)

I would love to say that this is a rare exception in the shopping world but it happens a lot.  Now I do buy some things in bulk (especially meant), and sometimes it can save you money but don't assume that it will.  Make mental notes of what things cost you or if you're forgetful, write it down.  That big pack of toilet paper may seem like a bargain but really be costing you more.