On Monday, in our 1st part of the series; we saw some of the ways in which cutting expenses was possible on transportation, debt, energy bills and entertainment. Today, in our 2nd part of series; we will explore some other ways in which we can cut back some more expenses.
Let’s get started
Food
Food is one of the most common problem areas. We either spend too much on groceries, or eat out so often that it costs our budgets (and waistlines) to swell. Here are some ways to save money on food and eliminate waste.
1. Cook (and pack) your own meals at home
When you cook at home, you are eating healthy, nutritious food. Your body and wallet will thank you for it.
2. Reduce eating out or take-out
Take-out and dining out can be a huge time-saver for a busy family, but the expenses are tremendous. Instead, look at other options to make dining at home more convenient. Focus mostly on simple recipes, and choose recipes that use the fresh produce in season in your area.
3. Buy non-perishable items in bulk
Buy a lot of non-perishable items in bulk, from salt and sugar to soap and shampoo. This can add up to a lot.
4. Start a garden
Focus on vegetables that are easy to grow and produce abundant fruit, like tomatoes, and learn how to can and store the excess. It can really help with trimming the food bill.
5. Buy generic when you can
Many other products are available in a store-brand or generic form for significantly less money.
I tend to try the generic version of a product at least once — and if I like it, I’ll continue buying it. Although all generic products have not worked for me.
Miscellaneous Expenses
These suggestions can help you find all of the potential savings in your monthly budget.
1. Lower your cell phone bill
Look for ways to downgrade to a cheaper cell phone plan. If you use it a lot, look at the features you’re paying for on your bill and see if you can trim any of those.
2. Consider cheaper childcare options
Compare childcare options in your area to see if there is a cheaper alternative.
3. Reduce or eliminate organized child activities
Look at the real expenses involved with any sport or activity before you let your children sign up. Meanwhile, keeping kids in only one activity at a time can also help you save much.
4. Try doing things yourself
If you hire out household services to others, consider reducing. Instead, put aside some time each week to do them yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll find that many activities can get the whole family involved (like housecleaning, cooking etc.).
5. Stop buying so much clothing
If you need to dress well for work, that’s okay. You can still save plenty by buying fewer but high-quality pieces and really utilizing the wardrobe you already own.
6. Reduce grooming expenses
Instead of having your hair cut and styled weekly, cut back to once a month, try having manicure and pedicure at home. Homemade skin and hair masks makes for an inexpensive but effective self-care regime. It doesn’t have to cost so much to look good.
7. Move to a less expensive area
Most people don’t consider this when they are thinking of cutting expenses but if you can find work in another area, it may be worth considering. Look around at other areas of the country where you can find employment, see what your salary would be there. Then look at the housing costs and see if they work for you.
Conclusion
Cutting expenses with a few of these strategies could lead to huge savings in the long run. Meanwhile, trying all of them could literally transform your financial future.
Which of these strategies are you already using and which do you want to add? Let us know in the comment’s section.
Until Then
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