Written: 04.11.10

 

Here a few tips to make your money go further:

 

Make a list of incomings and outgoings
List every single outgoing you have. It may be easiest to keep a diary for a few weeks so you can see where your money is being spent. Keep all of your receipts. Are you outgoings higher than your incoming money? If it’s a yes then look at the list and see what you can cut out; do you really need Sky TV or a takeaway every week?

 

Shop Smart
Only buy what you need. Make a list for your grocery shopping and stick to it. Only buy new clothes if you really need them. Don’t be tempted by the sales unless you want something specific. Take out the cash you need for the week and leave the debit card at home.

 

Ditch the car
Walk where you can, only take the car on necessary trips and save on fuel. The added bonus of walking is that you’ll be getting fit at the same time.

 

Get a Babee Card and Save
Not only can you budget with a pre-paid BabeeCard but you can also join the exclusive Discount Club. Then you can treat yourself to a meal out with and chose from one of the restaurants in the eating out section.

Toy and Clothes Swaps
Get your friends together and have clothes swap, it’s a good excuse for a get together and you could come away with some new clothes. You could also arrange a toy swapping party, the kids get to play with new toys and take them home and mums get a coffee and a chat.

 

Use exercise DVD’s instead on going to the gym
Going to the gym can cost upwards of £30. Invest in a few exercise DVD’s and exercise at home when it’s convenient to you. You could buy a few free weights or a Pilate’s ball and start a mini home gym.

 

Cook from scratch, no more ready meals
Stop buying ready meals and start cooking from scratch. Not only will it save you money but it’s much healthier.

 

Have your heating on a timer
You’ll be surprised how much money you can save by just having your heating on a timer. Set it for half an hour before you get up in the morning and for half an hour in the evening. Make sure you keep the doors and windows closed when it’s on. Also check to make sure there are no drafts in your house.

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