Are you struggling to make ends meet or looking for ways to save money? If so, you’re not alone.
A few years ago, my finances were in a terrible state. I was drowning in credit card debt and couldn’t seem to get ahead.
That’s when I decided to research some clever ways to save money.
Today, I want to share with you 27 tips that helped me get my finances back on track.
By implementing some of these strategies, you can take control of your finances and start working toward your financial goals.
Saving money is an important part of managing your finances, but it can be difficult to know where to start.
As someone who has had to learn how to manage my finances in the past, I know firsthand the importance of finding clever strategies and tips to help you save money.
In this blog, I’m going to share some of the ways I’ve personally used to save money.
From creating a budget and using coupons to cooking at home and investing in energy-saving devices, these strategies are designed to help you save money and work toward your financial goals.
Whether you’re trying to pay off debt, save for a big purchase, or just want to be more mindful of your spending habits, these tips and tricks will help you take control of your finances and start saving money today.
Here are 27 clever ways to save money:
1. Set a Budget
The first thing you need to do is set a budget.
This will help you keep track of your expenses and make sure you’re not overspending.
Start by listing your monthly income and your fixed expenses like rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and insurance.
Then, allocate a certain amount of money for variable expenses like food, entertainment, and clothing.
2. Use Coupons and Discount Codes
If you’re not already using coupons and discount codes, you’re missing out on some serious savings.
You can find printable coupons online or in your local newspaper.
You can also use websites like RetailMeNot to find discount codes for online shopping.
3. Cook at Home
Eating out can be expensive, so try to cook at home as much as possible.
Plan your meals for the week in advance and buy groceries accordingly.
You can also save money by packing your lunch for work instead of eating out.
4. Cancel Subscriptions You Don’t Need
Take a look at your monthly subscriptions and cancel any that you don’t need or use.
This could be a gym membership that you’re not using or a subscription to a magazine that you never read.
5. Buy Generic Brands
Generic brands are often just as good as name-brand products but at a lower cost.
So opt for generic brands whenever possible, especially for staples like milk, bread, and cereal.
6. Use Cashback Apps
Cashback apps like Ibotta and Rakuten can help you save money on your purchases.
These apps give you cashback for shopping at certain stores or buying certain products.
You can then redeem your cashback for gift cards, PayPal cash, or other rewards.
7. Shop Secondhand
You can save a lot of money by shopping secondhand.
Check out thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for deals on furniture, clothing, and other items.
8. Cut Your Cable Bill
Consider cutting your cable bill and switching to streaming services like Netflix or Hulu.
You can also find free streaming options on YouTube and other websites.
9. Use Energy-Saving Devices
Invest in energy-saving devices like LED light bulbs and smart thermostats.
These devices can help you save money on your monthly utility bills.
10. Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can save you money in the long run.
This is especially true for non-perishable items like toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies.
11. Plan Your Shopping Trips
Plan your shopping trips in advance and make a list of the items you need to buy.
This will help you avoid impulse purchases and save money in the process.
12. Use Free Resources
Take advantage of free resources like your local library, community center, and park.
You can borrow books and movies from the library, attend free events at the community center, and enjoy the outdoors at the park.
13. Use Public Transportation
Consider using public transportation instead of driving. This can save you money on gas and parking fees.
14. Use Credit Cards Wisely
Use credit cards wisely by paying them off in full each month.
This will help you avoid interest charges and improve your credit score.
15. Sell Items You Don’t Need
Sell items you don’t need or use anymore.
You can sell items online through websites like eBay or Amazon or have a garage sale.
16. DIY Home Repairs
Save money on home repairs by doing them yourself. You can find tutorials and how-to guides online for almost anything.
17. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat.
This will help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home.
18. Buy Used Cars
Consider buying a used car instead of a new one. Used cars are often just as reliable as new cars but at a lower cost.
19. Negotiate Your Bills
Negotiate your bills with your service providers.
This could be your cable company, internet provider, or cell phone company. You may be able to get a better deal just by asking.
20. Use a Cash-Only System
Consider using a cash-only system for your variable expenses. This will help you avoid overspending and keep your budget on track.
21. Buy Seasonal Produce
Buy seasonal produce when it’s at its cheapest. This will save you money on your grocery bill.
22. Use a Water Filter
Invest in a water filter instead of buying bottled water. This will save you money in the long run and reduce waste.
23. Use a Clothesline
Use a clothesline to dry your clothes instead of using a dryer. This will save you money on your energy bill.
24. Shop Around for Insurance
Shop around for insurance to make sure you’re getting the best deal. You can use websites like Policygenius to compare rates from different providers.
25. Use a Slow Cooker
Use a slow cooker to make inexpensive meals like soups and stews. This will save you money on your food bill.
26. Use Free Apps
Use free apps like Mint or Personal Capital to help you manage your finances.
These apps can help you track your spending and create a budget.
27. Use a Price Comparison Tool
Use a price comparison tool like Google Shopping to find the best deals on products. This will help you save money and find the best value for your money.
Conclusion:
These are just a few of the many tips and tricks you can use to save money.
By implementing some of these strategies, you can take control of your finances and start working toward your financial goals.