Living on a budget may require lifestyle changes. These may be short term or long term depending on your financial goals. However living on a budget doesn’t need to be a chore. Sometimes people get the idea that living on a budget means that they can no longer enjoy life.
If you are currently budgeting, it doesn’t mean that you sacrifice, comfort and enjoyment. While you are living within planned expenses, you can still be creative and adventurous at times.
What is a Budget?
A budget is a plan on how you are going to spend your money.
At The New Horizon Life, we have been focusing on financial planning. If you are new to budgeting after reading this article, I recommend you check out the article titled 7 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Create a Budget. Additionally, if you would like to learn how to create a budget, then the article 9 Simple Steps to Create an Achievable Budget is right for you.
Here are 15 Simple Ideas to Save Money on a Budget:
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1. COOK AT HOME
Dining out or purchasing fast food can be quite expensive. In fact, eating out can be more than twice the cost of cooking at home. Skip dining out and experiment with easy healthy recipes. Plan meals ahead of time. This can save you quite a significant amount of money.
2. BUY IN BULK NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS
Buying in bulk can save you a great deal in the long term. Non-perishable items such as rice, pasta, canned foods or toiletries last a long time. Should you find these items on sale consider stocking up. I have found by doing this that it creates a cycle of savings. That is, by purchasing several months’ supply at a time, later down the year the items go on sale again allowing me to replenish my stock thereby savings me a substantial amount of money.
3. MAKE YOUR OWN SNACKS
Packaged snacks can be quite expensive. In addition to this, most of them are unhealthy for you. Instead of buying package snacks, why not make your own? This is simple to do and can include things like trail mix, popcorn, and energy bars. By doing this, you will realize that it is cheaper, healthier for you and puts money back into your pocket.
4. MAKE YOUR OWN COFFEE
If you are a coffee lover, then you may have one cup or more each day. Brewing your own coffee at home is much cheaper than buying it at a coffee shop. The price that you pay at these shops for two cups of coffee may actually be the cost for a small bag of coffee that can be made at home. You may argue that the taste is not always the same however you will be giving yourself extra cash by following this practice.
5. MONITOR ENERGY CONSUMPTION
Finding was of lowering your electricity can save you dollars each month. You can lower energy cost by turning of lights when not in use. Switching to LED bulbs, adjusting your thermostat temperatures and by using energy efficient Appliances. You can also check out the article,11 Simple Tips to a Lower Electricity Bill Now! for more energy saving tips. Taking steps to lower your energy bill can help you save as small changes add up. You can also use a smart plug to monitor your energy consumption. I personally use the Kasa brand found on Amazon.
6. USE A REFILLABLE WATER BOTTLE
In today’s world it’s easy to grab a bottle of water on the go. Invest in a good water bottle that is refillable. Ensure that it is BPA free, non-toxic and made with safe to use metal. By using a refillable bottle, you will avoid buying bottled water, which in the long run can save you quite a lot of money. An added bonus is that you will be engaging in climate-friendly activities. You can find an assortment of refillable water bottles on Amazon.
7. CANCEL UNUSED SUBSCRIPTIONS
When living on a budget it is important to review subscriptions. These may include streaming services, health and fitness, food and memberships. Certain Subscriptions payments are automatic which means that you are not always aware of the payments. If left unchecked this can lead to you losing money. Consider unsubscribing to the ones you no longer need or use. As a result, you will be saving money that can be used for other financial needs.
8. SELL UNUSED ITEMS
I am sure at one point or another we’ve have all had things we did not use for a long time. It may even take up storage space or cause clutter. These may include unwanted presents, old devices, clothes, and books to name a few. Look around your home or apartment and as you do, see whether you can turn any of your unwanted belongings into cash. Why not begin decluttering and sell unused or unwanted items on websites such as eBay and Poshmark. If you’re not one to sell online, then you can opt to having a garage sale. By doing this you earn some extra cash.
9. USE DEVICES UNTIL IT THEY NO LONGER WORK
Living on a budget means that there are times when strict spending is necessary. The world of electronics changes rapidly. The need to keep up is not always a wise idea as it comes with added cost. Furthermore, you do not need the latest devices such as a phone each time a new one is released. Certain devices can last and receive software updates for at least seven years. Using your investment for the long haul will save you money.
10. USE COUPONS
Coupons are a great way to save money on the items you need. You can find coupons in newspapers, in-store and by using certain apps. When you purchase on Amazon or Walmart be sure to look for coupons or discounts and clip them. Additionally, you can find coupons on sites such as Amazon and Groupon.
11. CONSIDER CLEARANCE ITEMS
When it comes to significant savings you can find it in the clearance section of a store. Whether it is clothing, furniture or home goods, consider purchasing those items as they usually have a chunk of savings. You will not have to compromise on quality or brand.
12. MAKE GIFTS INSTEAD OF BUYING THEM
Nothing shows thoughtful considerations and affection like a personalized gift. It tells the receiver that you have given of your time, energy and self to be able to give you this present. Handmade gifts such as baked goods, food items, personalized crafts, redeemable coupons and other thoughtful gestures can be just as meaningful as store-bought presents. In fact, in some cases they may have a greater expression of thoughtfulness and love. As a bonus, it may even be cheaper to make such giftable item when compared to store-bought ones and can save you money in the process.
13. USE FREE ENTERTAINMENT
You may ask, is there such a thing as free entertainment? And the answer is yes. If you are living on a budget, then to save money you can look for alternative ways of entertainment without have to pay for it. Take advantage of free local events in your area like concerts, art shows, community festivals, museums, parks and online resources. Further, you can also view free movies or shows on YouTube and streaming platforms offering free content. These may not offer the latest content, but it will keep you entertained and save you money.
14. DIY ACTIVITIES
DIY activities can definitely save you money. If you are a homeowner, then mowing your lawn, trimming the hedges can save you the money spend on landscaping services. Instead of going to the car wash, you can wash the car yourself. You can even make your own cleaning products using simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, citrus fruit and essential oils. These are safer, cheaper and just as effective when compared to commercial products. Doing these activities can go a long way in saving you money.
15. START A SMALL GARDEN
Starting a small garden is inexpensive to do. You can grow your own herbs in pots, trays, grow bags or old plastic bottles and place them on your steps, or windowsill or front yard. Additionally, you can grow vegetables and fruit tree in your backyard. This can save you money on produce in the long run. Further to, gardening can be quite therapeutic as it helps to relieve stress after a long day.
Final Thoughts
This has been 15 Simple Ideas to Save Money on a Budget. These practical, easy to do ideas ensure that you save money allowing for extra cash in your pockets. Saving a little cash here and there can add up. You’ll be surprised as to how much money you have accumulated overtime by an of these 15 Simple Ideas to Save Money on a Budget.
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