Everyone wants to save money, but that can be easier said than done. If saving seems impossible, take a moment to consider these 10 easy ways that will save you cash. It might not pile up fast, but saving money is a long game. Start now and you’ll be surprised at how quickly it adds up.
- Share Accounts
Skip signing up for cable, and instead look into sharing a Netflix account with close friends and family. Sharing accounts takes a little effort and coordination, but it allows you to save money while watching your favorite movies and television shows.
- Get a Gas Rewards Card
Gas is expensive, especially when you drive a lot. Sign up for a rewards card from the gas stations you frequent most. It may not save you a ton of money at once, but every little bit helps.
- Go to Free Events
Keep an eye out for any free events being held around your town and surrounding areas. Most towns host special events like concerts, plays, and other family-friendly activities. You might be surprised by the number and variety of events going on in your community.
- Have Friends Over
It's far cheaper to host people at your home than it is to go out. Instead of going out for dinner and drinks, which can easily cost you forty bucks, invite guests over to socialize. You can save even more money by having a potluck.
- Create a Shopping List
Create a list and stick with it. A shopping list helps keep you focused when shopping for food or goods and can discourage wandering through the aisles. This can be especially helpful if you tend to make impulse purchases.
- Shop Less
Cut back on fun shopping trips. These trips often aren’t for items that you truly need and can seriously cost you.
- Don’t Eat Out
When you eat at a restaurant, you’re paying for the service, not the food. Eating out several times a week adds up to a lot of money that you could have saved by eating at home. Pack a lunch from home instead going out for lunch every day and limit going out for dinner to once a week.
- Use the Internet
You can use the Internet to exchange all sorts of things, ranging from movies to books to music. Swapping makes use of items that you already have, and lets you get new stuff without spending money.
- Gifts of Service
One of the worst things about being short on cash is feeling like you can’t give someone a gift. Instead of giving a tangible gift, give someone a gift of service. Watch their kids for a few hours, clean their house, or use some other skill or hobby to help them out.
- Grocery Store Membership
Is there a grocery store close to you that offers a reward card? Many grocery stores offer discounts and coupons for cardholders. The savings may seem relatively miniscule, but the savings add up over time. Be willing to commit to shopping at one store for good savings.
