Pocket Change

We all want to save money right? I know… It’s easier said then done but I’m going to remind you of 5 ways of how to save some bucks.

1.) Let’s start with cooking at home. Going out to eat costs a lot nowadays. You’d be surprised at how much it can add up. This includes lunches during the day so start packing your lunch. It’s so much cheaper and healthier to make a sandwich or salad for lunch then spending $5-$10 on greasy takeout or drive thru food. So brown bag it at least 3 times a week.

2.) Make a grocery list before going to the store. Have you ever gone to the store for something and came back home with something else? It drives me crazy when I do that. I end up buying 6 items and forgetting the 1 thing I went to the store for. So make a list and plan ahead. This should help distract your impulse shopping.

3.) Avoid ATM fees. Make sure to use only the ATM machines where your bank doesn’t charge extra fees. Sometimes we are in a hurry to get cash out and don’t even realize how much the machine charges. Make sure to find out what ATM locations your bank uses.

4.) Clip Clip Clip…go through your newspaper and find products your family uses. It may not seem like a lot but saving some change can add up fast. Most stores carry their own coupons and allow you to use both the store coupon and a manufacturer’s coupon together. These savings add up fast.

5.) Saving money on gas…We’ve all had to tighten our budgets when it comes to the astronomical prices of fuel but there a few ways to help save. Keep your car maintained such as your tires inflated and make sure your oil and air filter are changed regularly. Lighten your load by removing extra cargo. Driving with more people, and more stuff in your car, drags the car and requires more fuel. If it’s a hot day, park in the shade, and use your garage. A hot car evaporates gas. Also…Buy gas during the morning or evening hours, when it’s cool, or you will be buying gas at a time when it’s expanded and getting less gas.

These are just a few ways on how to save some pocket change. Hopefully they will help you save some money. The savings can add up which means you can spend it on something that really matters.

Like shoes.