More and more of us seem to be struggling to make ends meet each month. Shopping trips seem to cost more money, but income doesn’t seem to be going up. It’s tough when you have to start cutting back, but it’s also a good way to avoid getting into financial trouble. Living within your means may not be easy these days, but there are plenty of helpful tips and tricks to try.
Coupons have been a firm favorite for shoppers in the supermarkets for decades. Now you can find them online for both eStores and your regular mall outlets. Using coupons from places like Manycoupons saves you money at all your favorite stores. It can soon add up to hundreds of dollars each year. If friends or family ask you what you would like for your birthday or Christmas, why not ask for a store gift card to make those savings go even further?
Utility bills are often the biggest bills you have to face. The cost of energy can be so high at times. Of course, there are plenty of savings to be made here too. Batch cooking can save you a fortune. You can cook up a week of meals for the same gas or electricity as just one. Freeze the portions then pop them in the microwave for a few minutes to heat through. It saves you a lot of time as well.
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You can make even more savings on your energy bills by swapping your energy saver light bulbs to LEDs. LEDs cost roughly the same, but they don’t waste energy by heating up. This means you can light a room for just a fraction of the electricity cost as other kinds of bulbs. Best of all, they can be used in all your regular light fittings. You might even get creative with the colored strip lights and revamp your decor!
Do you ever drive short distances of just two or three miles? These journeys can be made on foot for free! Sometimes, it can be quicker to walk the journey when you consider traffic jams and trouble parking. The cost of gas is now so high, it simply doesn’t make sense to take the car on short journeys. Best of all, walking can help you become fitter and slimmer without all the effort of a workout.
Most stores have promotions during the sales periods. If you can wait to replace that dining set or that appliance, it’s worth making the most of these discounts. However, the art of haggling could give you that promotion price outside of the sales season. If you’ve never tried it before, why not give it a go? Do a little research to find the best price for the product you want. Pop over to the store and speak to the manager. They may be able to price match, saving you a fortune on those goods and services you need right away.
Life is expensive, but there are many ways to cut costs here and there. If full price is too much, see what you can do to encourage a cut-price. Use less and save more. How do you save money every day?
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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