Make your money go further by cutting out those extras

That is right, be strong and stop buying the things you really do not need. If the rich can do it, then why can't you? It is a proven fact that people with money are the biggest scrooges. That is why they are rich. In honesty, think about the wealthy people you know, how many of those buy goodies from the second hand stores and op shops.

You would be amazed. I thought they would be ashamed, or too embarrassed to admit it, but no, they are actually proud of how much money they save. Therefore, learn how to be frugal and join the rich and become richer yourself.

Checkout those op shops

Yes you can do it too! You will be surprised just what is available in these places. And you can often find new items of clothing, shoes, curtains, and all sorts of nic nacs.

Create a budget and stick to it

Write down everything you have to pay including all the insurances, licenses in fact everything you pay out each year. Allow extra for medical expenses, birthdays, and the normal incidentals.

If you get paid weekly, divide this amount by 52 to work out how much you need to put aside ever week. If paid monthly divide by 12. Put this amount away and do not spend unless for those on your list. Bank anything you can save.

Do you need to buy these?

• Takeaway coffee everyday
• Daily Newspapers
• Magazines
• Counter lunches
• Impulse buys

Earn interest

• We all have to pay bills. Instead of racing out to pay them straight away, keep that money in your bank, and pay it 3 days before it is due, I say 3 days to make sure you are not charged any late payment fees. That way your money is earning you interest instead of the supplier.

Prevent bank charges

• Make sure you have money in the bank to pay direct debits when due. Overdraft charges are a killer.
• Cut up those credit cards

Shopping

• Always make a list and stick to it
• Buy multiple when on special or in bulk.
• Shop once a week or fortnight to prevent impulse buying
• Never buy at the corner shop its convenient but costs more
• Buy seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables. They are cheaper than tinned or processed food
• Buy generic on special. Watch the sizes, some look cheap but contain less.
• Buy bulk, if you cannot use it, freeze or share with a neighbor.
• Use rice, spaghetti, legumes to make your food go further.
• Cook enough for two nights, freeze the rest for later in the week, or add curry to change flavor
• Stock your pantry when things on special
• Stack the freshest to the back. Keep an eye on expiry dates
• Buy meat on special. Pack, freeze in flat packaging, this saves space and reduces thaw time
• Plan your weekly menu
• Buy required amounts, do not overstock
• In winter, make soups and stews

If overstocked use it do not waste it

• Make soups with leftover vegetables
• Use leftover meat in stir fries or mince meat and make into potato pie

By following some of these suggestions, you can put extra money in the bank

How to save when traveling