Simple things mean a lot when it comes to saving money. You may already be doing some of these things, but hopefully you can pick up some new tips for the frugal life you live. Does that daily coffee from the local coffee shop really make a difference in your budget? Yep, it sure does, especially when you look at the bigger picture. The little things really do add up when you are trying to save money. Not only that, making those small changes puts us in the right mindset to make those frugal choices.
Have a budget
This is number one on the list for a reason. As much as everyone hates the thought of doing a budget, it really should be done. It is not as hard as you might think. Have different categories for expense such as: loans, utilities, school, daycare, groceries, gas and transportation, rent, shopping necessities, and last would be entertainment which includes dining out. You may have different expenses, but you get the idea, just account for everything. If you look back few months and categorize what you have already spent, you may be shocked at what you spend and where you spend it. That’s the main idea with a budget, to make you aware of where your money is going and motivate you to keep some coin in your pockets. You can also purchase a handy budget planner to help get your expenses in order.
Pack Your Lunch
If you don’t like making sandwiches everyday then make a pot of soup on the weekend and put into individual containers. Store in the fridge or freezer and take to work and throw in the microwave and you have a homemade lunch. It’s probably a lot healthier than what you’re eating out as well. The average cost for dining out at lunch is $8-$11 plus tip, and that’s being modest these days. Think of the money you could save in a month if you only eat out a couple times during that month or not at all.
Make Your Own Coffee
Paying $2-$4 for a cup of coffee could be considered the opposite of being frugal. Especially when you can get a whole can of coffee for $2 on sale. That would be worth like $100 for those who buy their coffee out every day. Invest in a coffee maker and cup and you could save hundreds of dollars in one year!
Grow Your Own Food
Having a garden is a great way to save some money while eating healthier. Want convenience, there’s nothing simpler than walking out your backdoor and picking part of your dinner. You can also grow some items, like lettuce and herbs, inside too. Check out our article on starting a garden here.
Cut the Cable
How many channels do you actually watch? It has never been easier than now to cut the cord. With so money options like Netflix and Amazon Prime, why pay the ridiculous price for cable or satellite when you can pick and choose what to watch.
Declutter and Sell
Time to declutter your home? Have two of everything? Get rid of it. You can donate it or sell it on Ebay, Craigslist or another venue. You can clean out your home and make some money in the process while you’re living the frugal life you live. Check out our short article on how to declutter your home.
$5 Bill System
Every time you get a $5 bill, save it and forget about it. Put it in an envelope and put in a safe place but don’t spend it. Before long, you will have a nice little pile of $5 bills. Now this trick may not be as good as it once was since a lot of folks use cash sparingly. But if you still use cash, it’s a great way to kickstart a new savings plan.
Wash in Cold Water
Save money on electric by washing your clothes in cold water. There are even detergents that are formulated for just that. Check out our article on saving money on your electric bills.
Use shopping programs or cards
Be sure you are registered with your local grocery store. Most have cards or programs that you can clip coupons electronically and have rewards (like cash off or money off gas) for spending a certain amount. It’s like free money if you already shop there so why not do it.
Fix it Yourself – DIY
Get creative and fix it yourself rather than paying someone else to do it. You can find anything on YouTube these days so why not give it a whirl. Now there are limitations, of course, so don’t put yourself in danger with electric, plumbing or anything you’re not comfortable doing.
Make a Grocery List
Make a list and try to stick to it. Easier said than done, right? If you have a list you will spend less, even if you pick up a couple other things. But you just have to remember to bring the list with you (that’s my biggest issue). You can add the list to your phone through the rewards or coupon apps we discussed earlier or just use the voice memo.
Get Rid of Your Landline
If you no longer need your landline, why have it? Unless you live where cell phone service is not good, is there a reason for landlines anymore. I’m sure there are exceptions, but this could be one bill that may be eliminated.
Buy Second Hand
Shopping yard sales and thrift stores can be enjoyable. You never know what you will find. A lot of the times, the merchandise is like new and only a fraction of the cost compared to new. Don’t forget about Ebay or other online retailers that sell second hand merchandise.
Save Money Shopping Online
There are programs for online shopping that actually pay you back, just for shopping. Rakuten is one of those programs. You simply register and there are a lot of discounts when you shop at the selected store. A lot of the stores are ones you already shop so just check it out before buying online. You can usually save 2% to 10% and more depending on what you’re shopping for. I have literally saved hundreds of dollars using this program. If you use this link you get $20 just for trying it out. It is totally free.
Check your Data – Do You Really Need Unlimited?
Speaking of phones, are you using that much data? With Wi-Fi everywhere these days, how much extra data do you really need? Check the amount of data you actually use and you might be able to ditch the unlimited plan and save about half of what you’re paying now. You can always try a prepaid cell phone plan to save even more!
Check Your Credit Card Statement
With so many digital subscriptions out there, you may forget you are still paying for that online magazine or streaming service. Be sure to check your credit card statement to make sure you’re not paying for something you no longer need or want.
Everything is Negotiable
Look for discounts by calling your insurance company, phone company, cable or satellite company, internet service or anything else you buy. Competition is a good thing so take advantage of it. You could literally end up saving hundreds of dollars a year by negotiating with some companies.
Sleep on It
When making large spending decisions, like a car, give it a day or two to make your decision. Impulse buying that snack is one thing but impulse buying a car can set you back for years to come. So sleep on it and wake up with a clear head before making that decision.
Just Say No
When in doubt, just say no. If you don’t need it, don’t buy it. Simple right? Don’t worry about what your neighbors or friends are buying. Worry about that budget that you have just started.
These frugal money saving tips will also help you build your savings for retirement. Be sure to check out our article on Retirement Saving Tips. Thank you so much for reading the Frugal Life You Live. We’d love to hear from you if you have other ways to save or any other comments.
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Stop Buying These Things to Save A lot of Money