The Frugal Shopper

I love a bargain, but part of the fun is sharing, right? So here's my list of places I shop to find bargains in and around Victoria.

• Dollar Giant is like the WalMart of dollar stores; there's one in Langford, near the big box stores and one downtown, less than a block from City Hall on Douglas st. I am constantly amazed at what I have been able to find here -- most notably, craft and school supplies.
• XSCargo is where to go for electronics and housewares, if you don't mind factory reconditioned appliances or manufacturer's close-outs -- our best deal was a reconditioned Roomba for about $100 below regular price. Located near Mayfair Mall.
• ReStore is stocked with everything you need for a frugal home reno. From a replacement faucet or light fixture to a gallon or two of paint to a full kitchen counter or tiles for a backsplash; everything here has been donated and proceeds go to Habitat for Humanity.
• Thrift stores are plentiful and with their ever-changing stock, completely unpredictable, but that doesn't stop me from snooping through whenever I have a spare minute. I'm purposely not adding a list of these... yet... it's a big undertaking.