Having a Backup Plan
This is the tricky part. Sometimes, deals are so hot, that by the time you get to your store, the products you need to make your scenario work are gone! They are out of stock until the next truck delivery comes in.
I remember the first time this happened to me. It was frustrating and overwhelming, as I quickly had to figure out what to do with the UPR I had. I wanted to use it as wisely as I could, to get the most UPR back as possible, and use that the next week.
For me, it works best to list all the deals I am interested in on a sheet of paper that I carry with me to the store.
I can quickly look at that list, clearly see the UPR I will get in return, the coupons I will need to use for each item, how much it will cost me immediately (which I will need UPR from previous visits or cash to pay out) and what the total cost of each item is after coupons, UPR and SCR have been deducted from my payout.
Being able to see this is also very useful if I need to make sure I spend over $20 in order to use a $4 off $20 video value coupon.
| Qty | Item | Price | UPR | Coupons | After Coupons | Total Cost |
| 2 | W. Pistachio | $5.00 | $1.00 | (2) $1/1 printable | $3.00 | $2.00 |
| 2 | Quaker Oat. | $5.00 | $2.00 | (2) $1/1 SS 1/2 | $3.00 | $1.00 |
Navigating Through Your Store
It might take a few trips until really feel like you have your store down, and know where things are at. But the great thing is, many Rite Aid’s, especially the newer ones, are very similar.
So whether you are shopping at your normal RiteAid, or visiting one on your way to a family outing, you will be amazed how quickly you can find what you need to make your scenario work.
Watch for my next post here on Frugal Lancaster, when I will explain how I got 50 products in two months for only $14.57.
To see the other posts, please go to Ways to Save and visit Playing the Drugstore Game.
