How Can I Save Money?

Whether you’re saving for something in particular or simply want to see your personal finances looking healthier in 2014, there are plenty of ways to save money the smart way. Many of us find it difficult to tighten our belts, but as long as you take an honest look at your finances and decide where you can legitimately cut back, the task of saving won’t be nearly as daunting as it might seem at first.
Save Money and the Environment
It’s likely that your energy bills are costing a significant chunk of your income due to the recent hike in gas and electricity prices. However, you can combat this in several ways. Start by switching all appliances and devices off when they are not being used, rather than leaving them on standby. Think about how well-insulated your home is. You can buy draught excluders inexpensively and use them on all outer doors. If your windows aren’t doubled glazed, this will be costing your dearly in terms of your energy bills. Some homes in the UK are currently eligible for free loft insulations, as much of a house’s heat is lost through the roof. It’s definitely worth checking to see if your home qualifies. Remember that using less energy in your home greatly benefits the environment, so if you’re interested in sustainable living, it’s important to save energy wherever you can.
Save Money in the Supermarket
Unfortunately, the big supermarkets are still fooling many customers with erroneous deals that don’t actually save shoppers any money. Read the small print and look at the individual prices of items before grabbing a bulk deal. There’s nothing wrong with buying own-brand foods and stocking up on things like bread, meat and vegetables, as they can be frozen and eaten at a later date. In the UK, families throw away £60 of good food every month. To cut down on your food waste, make sure you check the use by date on goods before you buy them, and don’t bin leftovers. They can be reheated and eaten later in the week. Encourage your children to clear their plates and praise them when they do so. It’s important not to over-face your child with inappropriately sized portions as doing so generates a great deal of food waste.
Small Ways to Save
When you’re saving money, it’s important to remember that changing your behaviour in small ways can make a big difference to your bank balance. Why not start making a packed lunch in the mornings or the night before, instead of buying your lunch at work? When you leave the house, check that you have a small snack and a bottle of water with you so you can avoid being overcharged when you need to refuel.
Quick Ways to Save
If you need fast cash but you’re wary of taking out a loan, you may wish to consider pawning an item. When your financial situation changes, you will have the option of buying it back. For more information, contact a trusted firm like H&T Pawnbrokers.