Spending money can easily become an addictive cycle. Without conscious tracking of your financial ins and outs or keeping savings in mind, it’s easy for things to get out of control.
But, on the other side of the coin, saving can become an equally addictive habit. Witnessing the numbers in your bank account grow makes saving gratifying, particularly when you discover new ways to save money. Some of these methods are quite evident, like budgeting and high-yield CDs. However, others fall into the category of sneaky money-saving tactics. No, we’re not talking about stashing money under tables as in Monopoly. Instead, it’s about doing research and finding subtle techniques to economize wherever possible.
While these tactics might not result in massive savings, they help reduce living expenses and slowly build up your bank balance. Every cent counts in the long run, right?
Save on gas
Saving at the pump might sound like we’re talking about just pennies. Some days, you might only get a few pennies back on your gas purchases. However, on other days, you can earn over a dollar in savings. The secret weapon here is Checkout 51, a coupon app. If you’re not using it already, I highly recommend downloading it. While it’s great for grocery shopping, it’s also a sneaky tool for trimming your gas expenses.
But there’s a catch: Checkout 51 cashback discounts aren’t available at every gas station. Some participate, while others don’t. To maximize your savings, you’ll need to plan your fill-ups. Before leaving home, upload the offer to your Checkout 51 account (a required step), then refuel at a participating gas station. Later, take a photo of your receipt within the app and wait for your cashback savings to be credited to your account. Those pennies can add up!
Embrace the art of couponing
You don’t need to go to extremes with couponing to save significantly at the grocery store. All it takes is a few user-friendly apps to secure deals on the groceries you already buy.
Start by checking if your local grocery store has its own app. These apps often allow you to load discounts onto your shopper’s card and present your account barcode directly on your phone at the cashier. Additionally, many offer personalized coupons based on your buying habits. So, download your store’s app (and get a shopper’s card if you don’t have one). Beyond that, explore apps like Checkout 51 and Fetch Rewards, which offer different advantages. While their coupon selections vary, they can still yield substantial savings.
Say no to gym memberships
Gym memberships can be costly, and depending on your lifestyle, you might not even need one. When I was nearing the end of college, I made a promise to myself not to pay for a gym membership. Instead, I turned to free resources to stay in shape. Even after I graduated and worked abroad for a year, I relied on running and YouTube fitness videos for my workouts. Now, I incorporate Shape’s fitness challenges as well. With an abundance of workout routines available on YouTube, you can access various exercises suited to your fitness level. And it doesn’t cost a thing!
Experiment with new recipes
If you’re already cooking at home, that’s a great start. But when was the last time you tried a new recipe? On the flip side, when did you last dine out or order takeout? If the answer to the latter question is “too often,” it’s time to rediscover your love for cooking.
Cooking at home is not just about saving money; it’s also a gradual lifestyle shift. By choosing a new recipe every week or two, you can explore new dishes and enhance your culinary skills. This habit also encourages you to skip dining out, which translates into both savings and a boost in creativity. You might just discover a new passion for cooking!
Brew your coffee at home
For coffee lovers who can’t resist a daily Starbucks fix, making coffee at home is a game-changer. A single cup of drip coffee can range from affordable to wallet-wrenching depending on where you live. To avoid the temptation of stopping at coffee shops, I’ve committed to brewing my coffee at home. It’s more cost-effective, and I get to enjoy my preferred brew.
Consider investing in an auto-timer to prepare your coffee in advance. In warmer months, you can brew a big pot on Sundays and turn it into iced coffee for the week.
Make the most of your library card
Library cards are valuable not just for borrowing books but also for accessing various resources, from language courses to movies and music. Many libraries offer more than just books; they provide free access to a world of knowledge and entertainment.
Carpool or use public transportation once a week
If your daily commute involves solo driving, consider carpooling or using public transportation at least one day a week. Carpooling is an excellent way to save on gas and reduce the environmental impact. If carpooling isn’t feasible, opt for public transportation. The cost of a single bus or subway ride is much lower than gas or ride-sharing services. By introducing carpooling or public transportation into your weekly routine, you can experience significant savings.
Shop for makeup at the drugstore
Instead of splurging on high-end makeup, consider drugstore alternatives. For frequently used items like mascara, eyeliner, and lipstick, drugstore brands offer quality products at a fraction of the cost. You might be surprised by the savings without compromising on quality.
Embrace leftovers
Leftovers can be a goldmine for savings. Purposefully cooking extra portions of your meals can provide you with convenient and cost-effective lunch options. Knowing you have a delicious homemade meal waiting in the office fridge discourages impromptu takeout orders. So, embrace your leftovers and turn them into money-saving, delicious lunches.
