Ways to Save

A family of ten needs to find some ways to cut corners and save some money. I could be a whole lot better at that. Just thinking about it, I came up with a list of ways to save money without really trying. At least not very hard...

1. Cut down on the trips to Starbucks. Do the exercise of adding up the cost of coffee drinks for one month. It may astound you!

2. If chips and pop consumption are a regular part of your family’s diet, cut it down to 2-3 days a week. If that’s hard, ask the kids to buy the extra snacks they want. Drink more water for health and savings.

3. Combine errands instead of making separate trips, especially if you live rurally. It makes for a long day, but if planned well, cuts down on transportation costs.

4. Use long distance phone cards instead of a long distance carrier. Even though there is extra time taken in dialing the access number, it is well worth it. Phone cards available at Costco and other big stores.

5. Make use of second-hand stores for clothing and housing needs. People throw away things that are in great condition. You just have to look for the diamonds in the rough. It can become quite rewarding.

6. Ask for quotes from other insurance agencies. If they know you are interested in changing companies, they will work hard to give you a better price.

7. Shop the day old bread shops. Store up and freeze what you won’t be using right away.

8. Freezers are a good investment. Being able to buy food in bulk and store it safely can reduce your grocery bill. But make sure the bulk buying from your club store is something you will eventually eat.

9. Stay away from convenience foods. Compare a snack box of crackers and meat for you child versus buying the individual items and having many more servings.

10. Walk instead of drive. Not easy in a lot of situations, but try it when possible.

11. Extracurricular school activities can be fun, but also mean money. Talk about playing only one sport a year instead of two. Dinners away from home, snacks, equipment and travelling costs add up quickly.

12. Instead of getting the newest book hot off the presses, check out the library and put in your request.

13. CDs of your favorite music artists add up quickly. Multiply each jewel case by $10, at least. If movies rentals are a frequent purchase, try out a movie club like Netflix which doesn't have late fees.

14. Make a menu plan and buy accordingly. Go to the grocery with list in hand and promise to keep to it. This will cut down the impulse buying.

15. Make natural cleaners instead of buying the expensive brands. There are plenty of websites that show you how to make cleaners from natural ingredients.

16. Don’t run the washing machine for one or two items. Hang the laundry out to dry or on racks in your home.

17. Sew your own clothing. (OK, not easy, but can be cheaper) Do price comparisons.

18. Teach your kids early that hand-me-downs are not a bad thing. Small children grow out of shoes quickly without wearing them out.

19. Turn the heat down and wear a sweater. Keep screens on outside doors and place towels around door crevices.

20. Pay bills online. Even savings on stamps will help a bit.

21. Grow your own food. Again, not easy, but a huge cost savings if you have a green thumb. Lots of produce can be grown in very small places. Check out books like Square Foot Gardening.