Ways to Save Money
When thinking of ways to save money, some people may envision something complicated, such as living an uncomfortable lifestyle or eliminating all debt. The simple truth is that there are 10 simple ways to save money that you can begin right now, without having to give up everything you love and want.
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Cut Coffee Expenses
Completely going without a cup of joe would just be ridiculous. However, investing in a simple Keurig and a well-insulated travel thermos will put you in a better position than paying a minimum of $5.00 at every Starbucks window. Also always purchase good quality k-cups pods such as Starbucks, but don’t pay more than 60cents for each pod, good quality k-cups can be used two times without sacrifice any flavor. This is one of the best and simplest ways to save money.
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Cable TV
Do you still need to pay for Cable TV services? Cable was great in the days where that was the only way you could access TV shows. Now, it’s a costly nuisance when you can pay for a streaming service like Netflix for well under $20.00 a month. The standard HD plan on Netflix is currently $13.99/month. Sure, you may not have access to every single show, but you will still have a great variety and can catch the rest elsewhere. Canceling cable is one of the best ways to save money, as long as you don’t sign up for 5 different streaming services afterward.
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Eat a Packed Lunch
Eating a packed lunch may seem like a simple, old-school way to save money, but it is still one of the most efficient things you can do. Not only is it healthier, but when you do eat out, it will be a treat.
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Look for Discounts/Rewards Programs
Take advantage of discounts, such as movie theater promotions and sales in stores. Sign up for rewards programs at the places you frequent, so that you can make the most of your visit and get a little kickback for it.
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Pay with Cash
One of the best ways to save money is still the cash payment system. Keep an envelope with cash and if you don’t have the cash, don’t make the purchase, this rule or method will help you not to only limit your spending on what you really have in hand but also will avoid any new debt, Not to mention that it will also show to yourself how all the money is literally disappearing from your pockets.
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Save Extra Income
Get a bonus at work, or an unexpected lump sum from a family member, friend, or inheritance? Putting extra income aside that is not planned for is literally one of the best ways to pile up cash and save money.
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Go Thrift Shopping
That shirt that you get at Macy’s for $50.00 can probably be found at a Ross Dress for Less for around $10.00. The great thing about thrift stores is you never know what you will find, but you can still get quality items for at least half the price (and usually lower).
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Try a Staycation
Instead of going to Hawaii, try staying at home or renting a cheap Airbnb in your city if you need a completely different view. Staycations, pandemic or no pandemic, are still one of the simplest ways to save money.
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Sell What You Don’t Need/Want
Selling what you don’t need/want is one of the best ways to save money by making money. For example, if you want a new video game console, selling yours may not give you enough to buy a new one, but putting the money you made from the sale towards your new purchase will certainly keep you from paying the full price out of your own pocket.
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Try Generic Brands
Not everyone is willing to try this one, but some brands are really just as good as the others. Try putting brand loyalty to the side and take a moment to see if that cereal that’s an extra two dollars per box is really “that good.”
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Limit Your Electric Water Heater Time
You can do this manually switching on/off your electric water heater only when need it (usually 1 to 2 hours a day) or automatically by installing a water heater timer, where you can set when it will be turned on and for how long, any way you choose, you will see a nice difference in your next electricity bill.
You can also take advantage of your electric company plan by activating your water heater only during lower electricity rates times, usually late at night or early in the morning, depending on your plan contracted some electric companies offer lower rates on off-peak periods.
