30 Common Sense Tips To Reduce Expenses

With the high cost of gas and groceries these days it is a wonder anyone can make ends meet. You might feel like your budget is already stretched as thin as it can go but you would be surprised. Here are 30 ways to cut expenses. Try just a few of them and see if you can start saving more of your paycheck each week.

1. Save on energy costs. Use power saving CFL lights. Hang your clothes instead of using the dryer, Only run things your dishwasher when full. And don’t leave lights or appliances on unless you are using them.

2. Instead of going to the movies rent or borrow one. If you must go to the movies go to an early matinee and save some money.

3. Instead of meeting friends for coffee or drinks invite them over for potluck. Take turns each week at each others house.

4. Do you eat out at work? Plan ahead and pack your lunch.

5. Use public transportation or a carpool.

6. Buy generic drugs instead of branded ones.

7. Make a list when you go grocery shopping and stick to it. Use coupons on items you normally buy and try to shop on double coupon days. Stocking up on non perishables or items that can be frozen is also a good idea when they are on sale.

8. Call long-distance in the evening and on weekends. If you make a lot of long distance calls look for a plan that offers unlimited free long distance.

9. Start saving your spare change. You will be surprised at how fast it adds up.

10. Buy clothing off season and never pay full price. Often what you find at one store full price will offer something similar on sale.

11. If you smoke quit! Not only will you save a ton of money but your health will greatly improve.

12. Save water - keep your showers short.

13. Don’t waste money on a gym - instead, jog, walk, workout at home or cycle.

14. Keep up on maintenance to extend the life of you car.

15. Dollar stores are a great place to stock up on items such as wrapping paper, gift cards, gift bags, etc.

16. Get out from underneath credit card debt by making more than the minimum payment each month.

17. Keep ingredients on hand for meals that you can have on the table in under 30 minutes. This just might keep you from ordering take out if you had a busy day.

18. Don’t be afraid to ask for a deal when buying large ticket items such as cars and furniture.

19. In the market for a new home? Find a home under the price the your bank has pre-approved you for. With more affordable payments you may even be able to pay a little extra on your mortgage each month.

20. Try Freecycle.org for getting and receiving unwanted items for free. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure!

21. Subscribe only to the TV channels that you watch and cut out the rest.

22. Don’t waste money on manicurists and pedicurists - you can do their work yourself at home.

23. Start a savings account just for emergencies. Start small like $5.00 per week.

24. Save on dry cleaning costs by purchasing items that can be washed at home.

25. Shop around for cheaper car insurance, homeowners, etc.

26. Drink less soft drinks and more water. Not only will it save on your grocery bill but it is also better for your health.

27. Have a rummage sale or check out local consignment shops. They will either give you a set price for all your stuff or, sell your items and share the commission with you.

28. Pay bills on time to avoid late fees and higher interest rates.

29. Plant a vegetable garden. If you don’t have a lot of space you could try container gardening.

30. Don’t be afraid to splurge once in a while. If you cut back here and there you deserve to treat yourself once in a while. Just make sure you plan for it.

These are just a few tips to help you stretch your budget. You might even come up with a few of your own!