Saving money is not easy – sometimes it really needs a lot of research, and changing our habits into less expensive ones to have a long term effect. But, as the old saying goes, each penny not spent is an extra penny in our pockets, so saving is worth it in the long run. Here is a fresh collection of tips that might help you spend less.
1. Shopping
The first rule of shopping is that “thou shalt not buy stuff you don’t need”. Not even if you find a great deal on (enter product name here) with 50% off, if you don’t need it, don’t buy it. The best way to achieve this is to act like Santa in the well-known carol: make a list, check it twice, and stick to it.
Whenever you are looking for vegetables – peas, green beans, and so on – consider buying frozen instead of fresh. Frozen vegetables are cheaper, but they have the same nutritional value as the fresh ones, and their taste is the same.
2. Gifts and decorations
Do it yourself! The internet is filled with DIY websites showing you how to create amazing decorations or gifts with your own hands, using inexpensive materials, instead of spending who knows how much on ready-made (and most of the times ordinary) things likely to have been assembled in China. A hand-made present for your loved ones is special and unique, and will always remind them of you. And it’s much cheaper.
3. Socialize at home
Instead of going out with your friends, why not invite them home? Going out can be a burden on your budget, considering the high prices at restaurants and pubs. Besides, when you invite your friends over you can cook for them, prepare their snacks yourself – and impress them in the process. You can arrange for a movie night with the girls, or a poker night with the boys, and save a lot on beer and crackers.
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4. Keep your hands clean
This might sound like health advice at first, and it is – but it has some serious financial implications as well. Washing your hands first each time you get home will help you get rid of the bacteria and viruses you acquire while outside – handle bars on the bus, and so on. Also wash your hands thoroughly if you handle raw food or you use the bathroom. Keeping away from bacteria and viruses can keep you healthy – and save you a lot of money on medication!
5. Bag your lunch instead of buying
Instead of going to the cafeteria or the sandwich joint around the corner for lunch, prepare your own lunch at home. There are so many things you can prepare at home “to go”, from salads to sandwiches, which are consistent and healthy – and they cost you less than anything you can buy. Besides, you can be sure that you know exactly what’s inside.
There is money to be saved with the tips above, money that you can use as you wish – put them in your piggy bank or use them to try your luck at the best casino games online – it’s up to you!