Does spending less money always make more sense?

I’m not sure–let me explain.

We got a postcard from our borough explaining that some sewer work was to be done and that if, during the next 8-12 weeks, our water should appear brown or cloudy, just let it run till it’s clear.

Uh, no thanks. And yes, we do drink our tap water–you don’t think I’d pay for bottled water, do you?

So off to Lowe’s I went. I had a few Lowe’s coupons from recent inserts, many of them for water filters. I look around and decide that I’ll get the $7 Brita filter and I have a $2 coupon. Good deal, right? I then decide that while I’m there, I might as well pick up a replacement cartridge for it.  They were $7.85.

Now look at this–I can purchase the filter with the pitcher for $5, because of course I have multiple coupons. Or I can get just the replacement cartridge for $7.85. Granted, that then leaves me with an entire extra pitcher and lid I don’t really need and it seems wasteful to throw it out. Even without the coupon it’s still cheaper to get the pitcher and cartridge instead of just a cartridge.

I got two pitchers. Not just because it was a better deal but because filtering water in a Brita pitcher is painfully slow. So it will be nice to have two to work with since we drink lots of water. But that pricing just makes NO sense at all.

Same at Giant. The jelly deal–Smucker’s grape jelly for $1.50. Buy two-$3. But…..buy 5 and they’ll give you an additional $5 off. So five jars would actually cost you $2.50. Buying five jars of jelly will cost you $0.50 less than buying two jars. Who thinks of these promos?

Just remember–difference between great price and great deal. Make sure you’re getting a great deal.