Let’s be real, ladies – we all love a good bargain, don’t we? If its about how to save money, we’re ready to sign up. Whether you’re a fashionista on a budget or a savvy saver looking to stretch your hard-earned dollars, these money-saving hacks are about to become your new best friends.
The cost of living crisis is real and pretty much the dinner time conversation on many tables. With the expenses and bills piling up, its great to have a few tricks up your sleeve to keep your finances in check.
I’ll add the disclaimer that you won’t love all of these because they require some uncomfortable changes. So pick and choose the ones you’re happiest to start with and progress along.
Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and perhaps even a little surprised by the sheer brilliance of these tried-test-documented hacks that help you on how to save money. Trust me, your future self (and wallet) will thank you.
Lets go!
Tips and Tricks on How to Save Money Starting Right Now
Ditch the Daily Coffee Run:
Lets get my least favourite one out of the way. Making your coffee at home instead of buying it from a cafe can save you around $15-$20 per week. Invest in a good quality reusable cup and brew your own. And when you do get a coffee, say when you’re in the office or every Monday – it will be a treat to yourself and will taste all that much better.
We recommend De’Longhi Magnifica S Automatic Coffee Machine (ad), which is a highly rated and high quality coffee machine.
Embrace Meat-Free Mondays:
Going meatless one day a week can significantly reduce your grocery bill. Incorporate more vegetable meals into your diet for a healthier and more cost-effective lifestyle.
Swap Gym Memberships for Outdoor Workouts:
Take advantage of Australia’s great outdoors by going for walks, runs, or doing bodyweight exercises in parks or at home. Cancel that expensive gym membership and save hundreds of dollars annually. It was a very sad day for me when I quit my local YMCA and had to say bye to my personal trainer. But as I get on top of my finances, this is a change I had to take.
Organise Clothing Swaps with Friends:
This doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or weird. Instead of buying new clothes, esp for special occasions like weddings, organise clothing swaps with friends and family. You can refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime and declutter your closet simultaneously.
Buy in Bulk Your Non-Perishables:
Purchase non-perishable items like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pantry staples in bulk when they’re on sale. This can lead to significant savings over time. Your local Costco or discount seller is the best place to visit over the weekend.
Always Make a Grocery List and Stick to It
It is very easy to get carried away and bulking up your trolley when you go grocery shopping. Make a list over the whole week – stick up a fridge magnetic board like this one from Mizexe (ad) to scribble your list on – and then take a picture as you grocery shop over the weekend. Stick to it.
Meal Prep and Batch Cook:
Prepare meals in bulk and freeze portions for later. This not only saves time but also prevents impulse takeout purchases, which can add up quickly.
This will help you plan your meals across the whole week. It took me a while to get into this habit but it has saved me a lot of effort and mental load, and its a great hack on how to save money. There is something in the fridge or something in freezer to take out and heat up.
Negotiate Bills and Subscriptions:
Don’t be afraid to call your service providers (internet, cable, phone) and negotiate for better deals or discounts, especially if you’ve been a long-term customer.
Utilize Cash-Back Apps and Loyalty Programs:
Apps like Cashrewards and loyalty programs from major retailers can help you earn cashback or discounts on your purchases.
You can also sign up for programs that offer you points for buying such as Velocity Frequent Flyer or your credit card points. This will give you added value when you shop.
Pay Your Bills in Full and on Time
There is usually a discount available when you pay your bills early. And when you pay your full bill, such as on your credit card, you will not incur any additional fees or charges. Save, save!
Embrace the Library:
Instead of buying books, audiobooks, or movies, take advantage of your local library’s free resources. Many libraries also offer free or discounted access to online courses and subscriptions. And then once you fall in love with a book or movie, then buy it for your collection.
DIY Beauty Treatments:
Skip the pricey salon visits and learn to do your own manicures, pedicures, and hair treatments at home. There are numerous online tutorials and recipes for homemade beauty products using affordable ingredients.
Invest in easy to use tools, such as the Dyson Airwrap (ad), which will save you heaps of money in the blowouts visits. It might be a pricey up front cost but it will save you money in the long term.
Unsubscribe!
Saving (pun, right here) another less popular one for last: unsubscribe from the apps and services that you can part with for a few months. Give Netflix a rest (you can pause) or Audible the boot (you can pause this one too) – make a lovely Excel spreadsheet with all your subscriptions. Might be best to go through your bank account as some might be set to auto-debit and you’re not even aware you’re being charged. These add up over time and managing the ones you plan to use over the next month or so will save you money.
You don’t have to part with them forever – just plan how you use them. For instance, I paused my Audible to go through the books I had purchased already and had on my to-read pile.
Another little tip: you might get a nice discount when you’re ready to head back to your favourite apps.
Remember, small changes in your daily habits can lead to substantial savings over time, allowing you to allocate more funds towards your financial goals. These aren’t easy but as you make each one a habit, you would have learnt how to save money like a pro.
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