Awareness Junkie
You might be saving up money with something specific in mind, such as a wedding, a dream vacation, or a house move. Or, you might simply be taking control of your financial situation by working to a budget for all monthly outgoings. Whatever reason you have for wanting to save money, many believe that it is often easier said than done. This isn’t always the case, though. Even in an economic environment, there are ways that you can save money easily, and you might be surprised at just how simple it is.
Meal plans
If you’re the sort of person who needs a Starbucks on their way to work, buys their lunch at Subway, and regularly gets a treat from Dairy Queen, it could be time to think again. Despite not being a restaurant meal with friends, takeaway food is one of the largest expenses for many people. To save money, spend half an hour a week to plan your menu for next week’s meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — and be strict with yourself in preparing all your lunches. Planning your meals will also keep you on track at the grocery store, but you should also try to incorporate groceries you already have to prevent food waste. There are many quick and tasty recipes for you to try, and you might find that preparing your meals at home is good for your waistline as well as your bank balance.
Keep an eye open for discounts
You probably know all about Black Friday, when you can buy Christmas gifts for all the family at a discount rate, as well as a few treats for yourself. However, stores also put certain regularly used products on offer on a weekly basis. Signing up to weekly circulars will enable you to keep up to date with weekly sales and products on promotion at your favorite stores, including Walmart, Target, and Dollar General. Another way to look out for discounts is by couponing, which will provide you with money off products and services such as contact lenses and eye tests. Both weekly circulars and coupons are good methods of saving money on regularly used household items.
Entertain at home
If there’s one thing the coronavirus lockdown has taught, it’s that it is possible to have fun at home. While you might be tempted to visit bars, restaurants, and cinemas with friends, entertaining at home is a good way of saving money. For instance, instead of going to the cinema, you could have a film night at home — complete with popcorn, drinks, and added bonus of a cozy blanket. This provides the added benefit of not being tied to a film that is showing at the cinema: you could each pick a favorite film to watch, or perhaps finally explore European arthouse cinema like you’ve been meaning to for years. One thing’s for certain — you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun with your friends! You can have fun in your home at a fraction of the price.
