Money Saving Tips from A to Z

Happy New Year!

The new year brings new resolutions, and for many people that includes saving and spending money wisely. In honor of the new year, I wanted to bring back this past (fun) post on the ABC’s of money saving. What I have learned about saving money is that it doesn’t have to be major changes. It is the little things that we do that can make a major difference in our overall budget. So, here are a few money saving tips that may be helpful for you:

Avoid Impulse Buying. Have a list when you shop at the grocery store and stick with it to cut down on excess spending.

Budget. Create a budget, record what you spend each month, and see where you cut your expenses.

Coupons. They really can save you! On average I save 65% off my grocery bill and 90% at the drugstore. Find out more at Couponing 101.

Dine In. Save your money and calories by fixing healthy meals that are based on deals that you find at the grocery store. Check out $5Dinners.com for ideas.

ECB. Loyal CVS fans know this one! These print on your receipt on participating products and as used as “money” on your next transaction. More at CVS 101.

FREEBIES. Many companies want you to try their products and will send you FREE stuff.

Garden. Grow your own vegetables, fruits, or herbs and save at the grocery store.

Homemade. Lunches, baby food, gifts, cleaners, laundry detergent, etc. All of these items can cost more if you buy retail, so try making it yourself to save.

Invest in an Extra Freezer.  Stock up on fresh foods, batch cook, and save on your grocery bill.

Just Be Frugal. Use your resources wisely, staying within budget, and don’t be wasteful.

Kids Eat Free. There are many restaurants that offer kid meal deals to help lower your bill. Check out KidsMealDeals.com.

Library. More than just books, you can rent movies, read current magazines, surf the internet and many libraries have different free events for kids.

Menu plan. Know what you have in your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer to stop compulsive spending.

Never Shop Hungry. You’ll end up buying things you don’t need (or want after the hunger passes).

Organize. Closets, drawers, shelves. When you are organized, you know what you have, what you need, and what you don’t need to spend.

Public Transportation or Carpool. Save on gas by using the bus, light rail, train, subway, or if weather permits, a bike!

Quit Buying Generic. It won’t necessarily save you any money, and many times you end up paying more.

Receipts. Always double check your receipt when you check out at stores or restaurants to make sure you got all the deals and your coupons were applied correctly.

Stockpile. When you find a great deal, you can stock up on it so that you won’t have to pay full price when you need it.

Turn it Off. Lights, computers, and other electronics consume energy and cost money. Turn them off when not in use to conserve and save.

Used. Second hand shops, garage sales, ebay or craigslist are all great places to find gently used clothes, furniture, or toys.

Value your Resources. Time, money, and space. Before you spend, ask yourself if it good use of your resources, whatever they may be.

Watch for Sales. Don’t pay full price for anything, unless it is the last resort.

eXtra Coupons? It helps to have multiple coupons, especially if you want to stock up on a great deal. Check out 10 Tips to Increase Your Coupon Stash.

Your Hair. Salons can be expensive, try coloring yourself, cutting your own bangs, or even cutting your kid’s hair.

Zoo, Museum, and other Attraction Memberships. Go when they are free and save on the admission price.

There you have it, saving money is as easy as A-B-C! Do you have a better idea for one of the letters? What are your money saving tips? Please share!

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