If you're scratching your head for more ways to save money each month, we've got you covered. Here are some unexpected savings tips you may not have considered.
There are many creative (even fun!) ways to save money that aren't immediately obvious. Read on to discover some surprising ways to save and get more bang for your buck!
We've all been there — grocery shopping on an empty stomach (we want all the snacks!). But unless you've got iron willpower, it's best to avoid the hungry shop. When we're hungry, we're more likely to buy things in the heat of the moment that we really don't need, and that hike up your bill.
The savviest grocery shoppers know that you need a game plan to achieve maximum savings. Planning what you're going to eat for a week is a great place to start. Try grouping recipes with like ingredients to minimize food waste and keep your list efficient. And then stick to the list! Making a list doesn't just jog your memory. It also helps you move through the store with purpose. The more you wander up and down aisles, the more likely you are to sneak a few extras into the cart.
If you haven't already migrated to streaming services for your TV and movies, it might be time. Cable bills can be more than $100 each month, depending on your area, with some even exceeding $200! Meanwhile, many of the popular streaming services range from $8 to $15 a month. Research where your favorite shows can be found, and consider bundling a few streaming services and put a bit of cash back into your monthly budget. (Some cell providers even offer certain streaming services as a bonus for signing with them.)
While there's a possible up-front cost to making your home more energy-efficient, you'll find that you can make a serious dent in your monthly energy bill with a few tweaks.
Replacing any damaged weatherstripping on windows and doors, insulating your roof and ceiling, and energy-efficient window coverings can help your home use energy more efficiently. In addition, LED light bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
Other hacks include adjusting your thermostat just one or two degrees to use less heat or AC and adjusting it further when you're not home. You can even find programmable thermostats so you can set it and forget it! And many systems will even clue you in on the most energy-efficient temperatures. While there is some up-front cost, it may be worth the long-term savings.
Improperly aired tires can be a drag on your car's mileage. It may not seem like much, but the right amount of air pressure can make a tank of gas go farther. If you drive often, this is a huge budget booster!
While not for everyone, gardening can be a great way to get fresh produce for pennies. After all, seeds are cheap! If you don't have the land, you can start a window-sill garden pretty easily. If you're new, start small. Tomatoes, for example, are easy to grow in large quantities and are used in tons of dishes. You can easily save a few dollars a week on tomatoes alone!
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