just wondering

[moonlight]

I’m clueless in this area. Can military families buy stuff on base? Can they order stuff on base? If they do is it discounted? How does that work? Also, do military and the families get a cheaper price if they want to mail stuff from the base?

[DCJenn]

Most bases have a PX/BX/NEX - the exchanges which are kind of like a Target- clothes, shoes, housewares, books, electronics, etc. The Commissary is the grocery store. The one at Ft. Sam has been completely gutted and redone and is fabulous. There are also PXTRAs or BXTRAs which is basically the Military Home Depot- paint, plants, plus furniture and appliances.

We don't pay sales tax. You can order stuff from the base or you can order from AAFES.com. We've ordered appliances and furniture and have had them delivered to our various homes. We pay the same USPS prices as anyone else.

Jenn

I second Jenn!

Yep it's worth it really. Yeah the one at Fort Sam is really nice and BIG! You save a lot on groceries and AAFES online you can really get great deals. XMAS shopping can be a little less on the pocket because of how cheap some items are versus buying them outside. And most bases also have Gas too, where you can continue to save. All you need is your DEERS ID card, and you should be able to get around quite easy. Plus there is always someone before you go into the military department stores that will verify your ID and help you with other questions you have! And they have lots of events and organizational activities, especially for families to do and participate in.

[DCJenn]

and the Class Six is the liquor store and they usually have a pretty decent selection and are significantly cheaper than 'real life'. I bought a case of barefoot for one of the parties and it ended up being something like $3/bottle. As good as Two buck chuck!

J/