Whether you're planning for a wedding, buy a big ticket item or are just trying to kick start the resolution you made on New Year’s day to be more financially responsible, there are simple ways to save money. Here are 12 things you can do to save some money every day, and before you know it, you'll be well on your way to a better financial health and of course healthier bank balance.
1. Have a date, a Money date(with yourself)
Set aside some time each week to plan the next week's expenses, set a budget and evaluate how you did in the previous week. Just because you've decided to live a more rigorously budgeted lifestyle doesn't mean you're going to take to it instantly. Give yourself time to adjust to the new regimen and be more aware of your expenses.
2. Use a budgeting App
Impulse purchases however small and insignificant they might be, tend to pile up and make a significant dent in your budget without you realising it maybe until it's too late. A budget tracking app is an easy way to self-regulate and will go a long way to keep you on track with your savings. Most banks in New Zealand have an expense tracking feature built in into their bank app.
3. Up-cycle and recycle, before buying
Re-purpose old stuff and ask friends if they're throwing away what you might be in need of before buying something. man’s trash in another man’s treasure.
4. Stop that Itch to click on the "buy" button
Sleep on it before you click. If it still feels like something you "must" have in the morning, only then buy it. Every home is full of stuff that was bought on a “Click” but never used since.
5. Beauty treatments- Your way
These days there’s practically a video for everything on YouTube. Give it a go. You'll end up learning new skills and save heaps doing that.
6. Potluck for Good Luck Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean your social life has to suffer. Ditch the restaurant and have friends over for a potluck to cut the cost of eating out. Home-cooked food is always healthier and cheaper too.
7. Get Creative Who doesn't love personalized cards and stationery? Make a gift if you have the time. It will be appreciated more by the receiver. Say No to buying generic last-minute gifts online.
8. Quality, not quantity For any essentials that you use long-term, you’ll be better off buying quality stuff even if it's more expensive. Not having to pay for regular repairs or replacements will save you a pretty penny in the long run.
9. Car-pool or Bike
Walk short distances if you can. If not try a bicycle . It combines health benefits of exercising while getting you from one place to the other, saves you money and saves the planet as well. How cool is that!
10. Switch it Off Turn off the switch/power button of your fans, lights, laptops etc., while not in use. It will save you quite a bit when your power bill arrives.
11. Get rid of unnecessary subscriptions From magazines and newspapers to TV shows, almost everything is available for free online. So why pay when you can save? Unsubscribe from what you're not using.
12. Quit smoking! You'll save money and your health. Call Quitline on 0800778778 or text 4006 if you need help and support to quit smoking.
If you need a hand with your finances, Call MONEYKART today on 022-09MKART Today!