5 Random Money Saving Tips

Posted by MoneyThinker in featured, smart money tips | 0 comments

I like to save money, don’t you? I’d like to think that that’s part of the reason you come and check out Money Thinking and listen to me ramble on about stuff.  But, if it’s just to laugh at the fact that I ramble aimlessly about money, that’s okay too.

The best thing about saving money is that there are so many ways to do it if you just try! Today we’re going to look at 5 seemingly miscellaneous ways that you too can save some bucks here or there.

1.Consider doing online surveys. Be warned! Not all of these are legitimate. But, if you do your research and figure out which ones are, you can make a nice chunk of pocket change from them. I’m definitely not saying you can live off of them, but, for example, one of the sites that I use gives me Amazon gift cards. I didn’t spend any money on my Christmas shopping this year. How cool is that?

2. Watch what season you’re in before buying stuff. Don’t buy computers, camping supplies, or summer clothing (except swimsuits)  during January, February, and March. They’re usually the normal price, because old stock is gone and new stuff is coming in.

3. Pay off that debt! I’ve encouraged you once, gonna encourage you again! Get rid of your debt. Don’t be spending money when you’ve got a load of debt weighing you down. Sure, you need to buy essentials, but wait on that next big-ticket product until you get some of your previous debt down first. You’re wasting money on that interest that keeps accumulating, too!

4. Have an emergency fund. As I was writing this article, the radio said that it’s estimated that 70% of people do not have an emergency fund. Wow! I know that I’m part of the 70% too. It’s also recommended that you have six months living costs saved up for emergency. Six months. Whoa… I’m not even close to that, friends, and I’m willing to bet that you aren’t either. Make a point to save up, or you’ll get yourself into debt like I did when I was in college.

5. Cut your entertainment costs. I bet some of you saw this and screamed. “NO! Why would I do that?!” You say. Well, friend, entertainment is a majority of the American budget. I haven’t had cable in my home for 2 years. I share a Netflix account with my sister and brother-in-law. If it’s not on there, I can probably find it on Hulu. Or, I can just listen to the radio and support my local radio station. Not having cable has saved me $600 a year. Where are you spending too much on entertainment? Do you have to cut something out? Consider your alternatives that could save you hundreds.

So, 5 easy ways to get some extra money in your pocket or to save on what you’re already spending on. Consider them, enjoy them, and as always, spend smart, save smart! Have a great weekend, and we’ll see you here next week!