How To Save One Hundred Extra Dollars A Month - Easily

This is a time when more and more individuals are trying to save, either because they fear possible loss of employment or because they are already unemployed. In good times and bad it is wise to control our spending both to ensure that our futures are secure and to save for just such an economic situation as many find themselves in today.

Consider adopting some or all of these suggestions, and you will see your savings rise and wasteful spending diminish.

First have a family meeting and explain that there are going to be some changes made. The adults will make the decisions but everyone should be informed.

FOOD and Sundries

Every week, you need to make a menu plan. Before you start, look over the weekly ads from you food market. Plan each meal, based on sale items if possible. Make a detailed list of all items you need. Make use of coupons. Shop only once a week and buy only what is on your list. Shop after a meal, never before. If you have forgotten something, do without. Be creative.

Eliminate or reduce restaurant meals.

Eliminate or reduce those expensive coffees. Bring your morning coffee from home. If you must have a special coffee occasionally, bring your own thermal cup. Many coffee houses will reduce the price if you bring your own cup. Use this for water as well. Cut out bottled water.

Take your lunch to work. When you have family outings, take a picnic lunch.

Limit treats to once a month. They will be enjoyed more.

Buy in bulk the foods that you use often.

Do your own baking and make your own bread.

Try a vegetarian meal now and then. They are healthy, cheaper, and generally more slimming.

Plant a garden.  Even a small one will help cut down on your food bill.  If you only have a balcony, plant a few pots of lettuce, tomatoes and herbs.

HOUSING

If you are buying a home you may be locked into your present mortgage. As soon as the time comes to renegotiate, get yourself a lower interest rate. Pay weekly instead of monthly to get significant saving over time.

Consider taking a boarder or two. Make sure you have a written contract.

If you have extra paring space, consider renting it.

If you have any outbuildings, rent out storage space.

If you are renting, look for cheaper accommodation, take in a roommate or move in with family or friends.

UTILITIES AND WATER

Turn down the thermostat in winter, two degrees in the day and two more at night. Use extra blankets, layer your clothing, or do a few exercises.

In summer, if you must have air conditioning, turn the thermostat up a degree each day for 5 days or more. Keep the drapes closed against the sun.

Turn off all lights when you leave a room. Turn off all electrical items when not in use. Do not use radios or television just for company. One television per home is enough. Reintroduce your family to reading and games.

Make a significant saving by going back to basic cable.

Only use your washer for full loads. Line dry your clothing.

Take showers, not baths. Turn off the water when brushing teeth, shaving, or soaping up. Water your garden before dawn or after dusk.

TRANSPORTATION

Car pool to work. Let the driver decide on the atmosphere whether musical, conversational or silent.

Walk your children to school if they are very young. Organize group walking for older children.

Food shop with a friend or neighbor. Keep each other on board with a savings plan.

If you have more than one car in the family, park one. Renegotiate your car insurance.

Share, take the bus, ride a bike, walk.

Make a list of all the errands for each week that need a car. Do them all in one trip.

ENTERTAINMENT

Have potlucks or barbecues instead of eating out.

If for any reason you must eat out, have a drink at home beforehand and come back home for dessert and coffee.

Eat out for lunch instead of dinner.

Make use of restaurant coupons and specials.

Cut back on liquor and cigarettes. The savings will literally roll in.

Take local holidays or at least holidays in less exotic locations. Shop for deals in restaurants and hotels. Never hesitate to ask for a better price.

Stay home. Rent movies. Make your own popcorn.

CLOTHING

Shop discount and thrift stores.

Unless absolutely necessary, do not buy clothing unless it is on sale.

If an item is imperfect, as for a price reduction.

"Wear it out, patch it up, make it do."

Shop only for needs, not wants.

SAVING IS ADDICTIVE - BECOME A SAVING ADDICT