These days, most families could stand to save more money. But if you’re not one to clip coupons or buy mystery meat at the supermarket just because it’s $2 cheaper than the ground beef, then this article will help you with seven ways you can save money for yourself and your family.
Tune Out of Your Television
One way you can save a ton of money is to watch a lot less television. Some of the financial benefits you could receive include getting less exposure to ads that make you want to spend money and lower electric and cable bills. Watching less television also gives you more time to focus on other activities, such as time with your family. You could even start a side hustle that could bring in even more money.
Try Instituting the 30-Day Rule In Your Home
If you’re going to start saving money, you’ll have to master the art of delaying instant gratification. You could do this by instituting a rule in your house that says everyone must wait 30 days before making a major purchase. One thing that many people find is that after the 30-day period passed, the urge to buy the product or service had also passed as well. By waiting to make a purchase, you can save a considerable amount of money. You’ll gain perspective on whether the purchase will be worth it in the end.
Drink A Lot More Water
We all know the health benefits of drinking more water. But did you know that it could also benefit your family’s budget? Before every meal, start drinking a glass of water to feel fuller, which will make you eat less. You will not only save on your food expenditures, but you’ll feel better when you hydrate yourself. When you’re not spending the money on juices, sodas, and teas, you’ll spend less money. Plus, drinking tap water is 100 percent free.
Take Out a Car Title Loan
A car title loan should only get used in the event of a financial emergency. If you own your car free and clear and you need a significant amount of money quickly, you could get a loan against your vehicle. As long as you make on-time payments, you will get to keep your car while you pay off the loan. Many families have used this option to get them through financially perilous times.
Shop the Right Way
You don’t have to clip coupons to save a lot of money at the supermarket. Smart grocery shopping can act as just the thing to pad your bank account over time. For starters, shop only once every week and try to get everything you need in one shopping trip. When you keep going to and from the grocery store all week for this thing and that, it can all add up over time.
Another way you can help your grocery shopping budget is to shop without your kids present. That way, you’ll keep yourself from making sugary impulse purchases that your children will certainly encourage.
Try a Staycation
You don’t have to take on the stress of flying to Disneyland for a week to have fun with your family. You can have family-friendly fun miles within your hometown. Look for activities such as campgrounds, free museums, hiking trails, and cheap admissions to movie theaters during the day. Before you and your kids complain about not being able to see Mickey Mouse in person, remind everyone that family time is about making memories, not spending money the family doesn’t have.
Stop Shopping With Credit Cards
Unfortunately, many people have to use credit cards as an extension of their income. Avoid doing this whenever possible. You never want a balance to travel from one month to another month. By doing this, interest gets added to the purchase. When you pay with cash or debit cards, you do not spend above your means.