The topic of saving money is always a popular one. It’s difficult to find anyone who isn’t interested in saving a few coins. My personal finance journey has been full of it’s ups-and-downs just like most people. Although I still have further to go, I thought I would share a few of the tips that I have picked up along the way. Some of them might be new to you.
Unsubscribe from promotional emails
Signing up for promotional emails seems like a good idea at first. However, before you know it you have so much email clutter. You also end up with too much temptation to do online shopping. Promotional emails from stores can lead to unnecessary spending. If you want to save money when shopping online, wait to shop when you actually need something. Then do a quick online search for any available promotions or coupons.
Review data and phone plans
The cellphone industry is constantly growing and evolving. There is always a new smartphone on the market. While it’s tempting to get a new phone you should double check the offers out there. Also compare your current data plan to other data plans available. A cellphone plan better suited for your budget may be available. Also check your cellphone bill monthly to make sure you’re not paying for additional services that you don’t use.
Shop around for cost effective insurance plans
When it’s time to renew your insurance, look over your current coverage and see if all that is listed still applies to your needs. Life changes and sometimes you need to update your coverage to change with it. Shopping around may lead to saving some money down the road.
Brown bag your lunch
You would be amazed at how quickly paying for lunch several times a week adds up. Now if you and your significant other are both buying lunch that amount grows significantly. For example; the average cost of lunch at a fast food restaurant is $8. Doing that Monday through Friday is $40. Add your spouse into the mix and that’s $80 (give or take several dollars)! Bringing your lunch to work can save you so much in the long run.
Cut out excess
Plan ahead when running errands. If you have several errands to accomplish plan out your route to save gas. Also if you plan ahead you can avoid hitting heavy traffic spots repeatedly. You’ll get more accomplished and spend less time in your vehicle.
Plan & budget for date night
Date nights can easily feel like mini-celebrations. You want to live it up a little and enjoy yourself, right? To avoid waking up the next morning and feeling shocked at the balance in your account, budget for date night. It doesn’t sound exciting, but you should plan when, where, and how much you’re going to spend beforehand.
You don’t have to be in a relationship to plan ahead for “date night”. Budget if you’re planning a night out with your friends too. The main goal is no financial surprises later!
Take advantage of money saving apps and websites
There are several money saving apps and websites out there that can help you save a little cash. Ibotta is an app that gives you cash back for buying items at certain stores. My husband and I use this app every time we shop. SmartyPig is a website that allows you to save money for goals using a simple direct deposit account. Rakutten (formerly Ebates) gives you cash back when you shop online.
Like I said earlier, I still have further to go on my financial journey. It is not always easy, but that is where discipline comes in. I hope these tips help you. What are your financial tips? Share in the comments section below!
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