Another 10 Tricks to Save Money

Monday, July 27th, 2015

We all get that feeling where we sometimes you have far too much month at the end of our money. Using these tricks to save money will make your rands go just that little bit further before payday.

Everyday tricks to save money

Start a change jar

Instead of using those R1 and R2 coins for quick-fix items like treats, start a coin jar and save your change for something that you really want.

Turn off your lights

You’d be surprised how much money you can save on your electricity bill if you simply switch off lights when you’re not in the room. While rooms that are frequently moved in and out of may need the light on constantly, switch the lights off in bathrooms and entertainment rooms as you leave them.

Compare prices

Do your homework before doing your monthly, or weekly shop. Shopping around can save you thousands in the long run when you make the extra effort to find the best price instead of settling for what is easy. Look out for coupons and sales in your local newspaper too.

Avoid retail therapy

For those who use retail therapy to relax or let off steam, try taking up a hobby instead. Gardening has been suggested as a great substitute for shopping as you can still get the aesthetic pleasure of beautiful things, and get all the mood boosts that shopping would give you too! Try growing herbs or vegetables so that you can use what’s in your garden in your kitchen too.

Monthly tricks to save money

Spring clean

Give your home a good once-over every month. Sort through items that you don’t use frequently, pack away seasonal clothes and items, and do a thorough clean to help maintain your appliances, and reduce maintenance on your house. Take it a step further and have a garage sale, or sell your unused items and clothing online to get a bit of extra cash.

Avoid shopping on payday

If you’re an impulse buyer, save money by avoiding the shops on payday and the week after. Many stores organise pseudo-sales around that time to make shoppers think that they’re getting good deals – rather (as above) shop around for good deals instead.

Pay yourself first

The trick to keeping your savings regulated is to treat saving like a bill that you pay yourself every month. Chat to your bank and get a savings account that suits your monthly expenditure and pay-grade, and then deposit money into your savings account each month as you pay your other bills.

Cancel unused subscriptions

While a coffee table of magazines might look inviting, and the intention to go to the gym is all good and well, if you find that you are no longer using your subscriptions just cancel them. Reread old magazines or buy books from a charity shop, and walk around the neighbourhood instead.

Do your own maintenance

Getting clued up on basic DIY skills for around the house won’t only save you money, it’ll provide a great sense of satisfaction too! (Just leave the more difficult things to the professional to avoid doing more damage). Do you have any interesting tricks that you use to save money? Let us know in the comments below, via Facebook, Google+, or Twitter!

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