Managing a tight budget can sometimes feel like a circus act, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are many clever ways to make your money go further, and you might be surprised at how simple some of these strategies can be. Here are 18 smart ways to save money that most people ignore.
Skip the Pre-Packaged
While grabbing that pre-cut fruit or instant meal is certainly convenient, you’re paying extra for that convenience. Buying whole ingredients and doing some prep work can cut your grocery bill down a lot. Instead, you should pick whole vegetables and fruits or get a block of cheese instead of shredded, and see how your total at the checkout is a lot lower.
Take Care of Your Stuff
It doesn’t matter if you’re oiling a squeaky door or cleaning the filters in your AC because keeping your things in good shape can prevent expensive fixes later. Be proactive with what you have, and think about the satisfaction of not having to call a pro every time something goes minorly wrong. Regular checks will only save you money and extend the life of your belongings.
Regular Car Check-Ups
Similarly, regularly maintaining your car through oil changes and tire rotations can help you avoid big repairs later on. Investing a little now will save a lot down the road by keeping your ride safe and sound. Staying on top of these things means you won’t be stranded on the side of the road with a problem that could’ve been easily fixed.
Babysit Swaps
If you need a night out but don’t want to splurge on a babysitter, try setting up a babysitting swap with a neighbor. You watch their kids tonight; they watch yours next time. It’s free and can be much more reliable than some services, especially since this arrangement will help you build a sense of community and trust among your neighbors.
Thrift Shopping Is In
Who doesn’t love a good thrift store find? You can get practically everything there, whether it’s books or even furniture, and thrift shops have it at a fraction of the retail price. You’ll get to save money and find some unique pieces while recycling old things. There are no downsides to this.
Unplug and Save
Unplug your electronics. Even if you stop using them, you can still use electricity because they are in standby mode. This will add to your bill, but pulling the plug on TVs or microwaves helps save you some money and the planet. While it’s only a small decrease in energy costs, you’ll notice it over time.
Water Wisely
Using a watering can instead of a hose for your garden or using a water-efficient showerhead can cut your water bill by quite a bit. You could even try collecting rainwater in a barrel can, which is legal in many states, to get a free supply for watering plants. Soon enough, you’ll be saving money and water simultaneously.
Cook in Batches
Cook large portions and use your leftovers in different ways. Making meals in batches saves more time and energy than cooking every day. You’ll also make fewer trips to the store, which means less impulse buying and more money in your pocket. Experimenting with different recipes will also keep things interesting.
Cut Down on Meat
Speaking of food, reducing the amount of meat in your diet can help you save quite a bit, as meat is usually one of the most expensive items on your grocery list. Try having a couple of meatless meals each week with beans or lentils. Plenty of nutritious alternatives will fill you up without draining your wallet, and they’re usually better for your health.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees when you’re not home will reduce your heating and cooling costs. Lower it a couple of degrees in winter and bump it up in summer. Such a small adjustment won’t affect your comfort but will certainly be better for your budget. Better yet, get a programmable thermostat that’ll adjust the temperatures automatically.
Use Apps for Budgeting
There are tons of apps out there that can help you manage your money more effectively, like Mint or YNAB. These apps track your spending and help you see where every penny is going, which can highlight areas where you can cut back. They’ll also send notifications for unusual spending and give you tips for savings based on your financial habits, which is pretty important.
Consolidate Trips
You should try to run all your errands in one go by planning your route to hit the grocery store and any other stops in one trip. This way, you’ll stay organized while saving gas and time, so it’s a win-win-win situation. Less traveling means lower fuel costs and less wear and tear for your vehicle.
Sell Unused Items
If you have any stuff lying around that you don’t use, you might as well sell it online or at a yard sale. It doesn’t matter if it’s old books or electronics because you’re not using them, so why not make some extra cash? If you do it regularly enough, you’ll have a nice increase in savings or extra spending money.
Go for Refills
Whenever you can, buy refill packs for products like laundry detergents or hand soap instead of a new container each time. Refills often come cheaper and are better for the environment because they reduce plastic waste. Over time, you’ll realize that such a small change can help you save quite a bit and create far less trash. That’s good for everybody.
Pay Bills Online
Switch to online bill payments if you haven’t already. They’re convenient and may also save you the cost of postage and check paper. In fact, some companies will give you small discounts for setting up automatic payments and going paperless, which can mean you’re saving cash in the long run. Automated payments also reduce the risk of late fees.
Annualize Your Insurance
Although it costs more up-front, paying your car or home insurance in full annually rather than monthly can mean you’ll save quite a bit. Many companies charge extra for the convenience of monthly payments, which could mean you’re paying more than $100 extra just because you’re paying over a longer period. One less monthly bill to worry about can simplify your finances.
Volunteer for Events
Many events, including concerts or festivals, offer free entry in exchange for a few hours of volunteering. You can have a fun day out or experience without spending a dime and just need to give a few hours of your time. You could even meet new people and maybe even learn a new skill or two.
Barter with Neighbors
Don’t waste your money on new items or services; try bartering with your neighbors. For example, if you’re great at baking and your neighbor’s handy with home repairs, try swapping some homemade bread for a few hours to help fix things around your house. It’s free; better yet, you can build ties with your community.
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
