By spending just a little less every month, consumers can really save big. Cutting out just $50 a month is simple. And once that task is mastered, it's easy to save even more.
How to Save $50 a Month Quickly and Easily
First of all, cut out those snacks! It will help wallets and waistlines in the long run. Sweets like candy are highly caloric and expensive! So cut those out first. Instead of a candy bar, munch on dried fruit in a bag. The savings can be enormous. For example, a 2.6 oz. bag of Deerfield Farms Dried Cherries from Walgreen's costs $1.99. That bag contains about three servings. While a king-size Reese's Peanut Butter Cup (2.8 ounces) runs $1.29 on sale a Walgreen's, that's only one serving! Who says health food is more expensive?
Drink Coffee at Home instead of at a Coffee Shop
Buying a bag of whole beans at a warehouse club costs only a fraction of what a made-to-order latte does at a gourmet coffee bar. Invest in a grinder. It will last for years, and the savings will be realized in less than a month. Grinding and brewing beans at home will easily save $50 a month, especially among die-hard everyday coffee bar patrons.
Eat out Less and Cook at Home More
That seems like a no-brainer but people continue to eat at fast food establishments every day. Not only is the food more fattening, it is a lot more expensive! Buy fresh fruits and veggies at a local farmers' market, then stock up on non-perishables at a warehouse club, and frequent local supermarkets for sale items and other necessities. Even online grocery shopping can pay off. Do a search for lightweight non-perishables (cheaper to ship) at places like Overstock and Drugstore.com. Products like laundry detergent are often less expensive at these online retailers. Shampoo and body wash might also prove to be cheaper online.
Borrow Books and DVD's from the Library
That will save at least $50 a month for those movie lovers who have to watch the latest flick either at the movie theater or at home. Older classic movies are often more plot-driven than the shootem-up fare offered these days. Saving money could turn some people into old-fashioned movie buffs!
Plan a Staycation, or Travel Closer to Home
Visit local lakes and parks instead of venturing to the ocean this year. The kids won't know the difference, but that pocketbook sure will!
L. Marie Dubuque - Based in St. Louis, Marie Dubuque is certified as a life coach. Her latest book, Emotional Spending: How to Break the Addiction is now ...
