Money Saving Tips

Just a few ideas to get you started:

Go to the library. Books, dvd's, and magazines are all here waiting for you. For free! Just return them on time, duh.

While you're there, pick up a cookbook and start planning your menu for the week! Use my guide here to get you started. 




That will help you shop only once a week and cut out impulse buys. If you live in a more, ahem, European setting and have little space to spare in your pantry or fridge then you get a pass on this one.

If you do have the room, grow some food! Be it a few cherry tomato plants, a full crop of corn, or just a little herb garden on your window sill. Now you don't have to pay $3 for a bunch of sad mint leaves when you only need a sprig.

If you don't go to the gym three times per week or more, cancel that membership! Running is free, there are loads of free workouts on YouTube, and you can buy some used free weights from Craigslist for a song.

While you're on Craislist, see if anyone is selling (or giving away!) an item you need to buy.

Think about selling some of your things as well.

Ponder this while you make your own coffee every morning. This is a no brainer! If you are really stuck on your favorite shop's beans then buy a bag and have them grind it for you. A $3 cup of drip literally contains 5 cents in beans.

While it's brewing take a few minutes to clear your counters and put things in their place. A neat home is a joy to be in and you'll avoid buying repeat items if you know where things are.

Use homemade cleaners to tidy up. They're cheaper and less toxic than storebought. A little vinegar and hot water with baking soda works wonders!

While you have the baking soda out, why not make a batch of pancakes? You can freeze what you don't eat and heat them up in the toaster for breakfast.

Make an effort to carpool or take public transportation to work or school everyday. It's better for the environment and it gives you more time to read all those books you got at the library!

What are your favorite ways to save money? Leave a comment and I'll feature it in my next round-up!