Everybody wants to save money, but most people think it is too difficult and their lifestyle requires them to spend what they are currently spending. However, there are many small changes you can make that do not adversely affect your lifestyle and will save you a great deal of money throughout the year.
One really good suggestion that can save a significant amount of money throughout the year that does not require a lot of effort is packing a bag lunch every day before you go to work. There are two benefits to doing this, which include saving money and better eating habits. When people eat out for lunch on a daily basis they generally spend at least $5 a day, if not more. If $5 is the minimum, and this is spent every workday, then an individual could save at least $1200 per year by simply taking their lunch to work. This money then could be used for family emergencies, investments, retirement plans, and the like.
Another good tip is to clip coupons and shop grocery store circulars. When you do this you will save so much money and not be putting forth much effort, either. Many grocery stores honor competitors coupons as well, so you should keep this in mind too. If you shop circulars and use coupons it is not unlikely that you will save $40 a week on your groceries. Be smart and take advantage of the discounts you will receive when shopping this way.
Another tip is to make sure you have the appropriate cell phone plan for the amount of minutes you talk. Too many people buy an inexpensive plan and continuously go over their minutes on a monthly basis and end up paying significantly more than they would if they bought a better phone plan.
Use your cell phone wisely. Many people buy a cheap phone package and then overspend on their minutes every month. If this is happening to you, upgrade your package and pay more on the front end, but save significantly when you do not go over your minutes and have to pay high rates.
This is important to keep track of, so check your cell phone statement to see your monthly minutes used, the amount in your cell phone plan, and the hours you most frequently talk. Then, work with your cell phone provider to find an affordable plan for you and your talking habits.There are a lot of ways to save money, you just have to be creative and know where you are spending your money. By following these simple tips you will not be changing your lifestyle very much, but will be saving hundreds of dollars each month which means thousands of dollars each year.
Green To Save Money
You can save up to 50% in travel expenses, if you follow these steps.
1. Better to travel during low season.
Choosing to go on vacation during low season can save you a great deal of money on airfare, hotels, cruises, car rental and more.
The best dates to travel are between:
February - May
September - the week before Thanksgiving
December 1 - 15
For example, a 7-day cruise in the Caribbean can cost around $1,000 during summer and winter but it can cost $495 in November.
A ticket to Europe can cost between $800-$1,200 during high season but you can buy it at $395 roundtrip during low season.
2. Hotels Rates
The same applies to hotel rates.
When it comes to hotels, you should look for 3-star hotels that will offer most amenities you need at a lower price than 4 or more star hotels. You should keep in mind, that 3-star hotels are smaller, but you can find very good hotels for a great price.
Keep in mind that hotels that are very near local attractions will be more expensive than hotels located 2 or 3 blocks away.
3. Attractions and Places to Visit
Make a list of the places and attractions you want to visit and do some research. Find out about the schedules, locations, special events, etc. You'll find out that there are certain dates during the year that they will have discounts and even free admission.
4. Restaurants
Don't visit tourist-oriented restaurants.
Instead, ask locals to recommend family-owned or small restaurants. Not only will you pay less but the food, quality and service will be much better.
Two years ago, I visited Monaco, France and we went to a small restaurant on a side street and we only paid $100 (for 4 people) for appetizers, great pasta, drinks and dessert (including tip). Not a bad price considering that Monaco is very expensive.
5. Train or Taxi
In most places, there is a metro or train system which will be a lot cheaper than traveling by taxi. All you need to do is get a map and trace the route you're going to visit and find out the train or metro numbers you need to get on to.
By planning your vacation in advance, choosing the best dates to travel (low season), doing research about places and attractions to visit, going to local restaurants versus tourist-oriented ones, and using the metro or train system instead of taxis, will save you a great deal of money and allow you to go on vacation at least twice a year.
Both Nathan Dawson & Jagi are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Nathan Dawson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Finances, Credit Counseling and Debts Loans. Find more great articles at a great online source for finance information.. Nathan Dawson's top article generates over 49500 views. to your Favourites.
Jagi has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pets, Travel and Leisure and Personal Finance. . Jagi's top article generates over 8100 views. to your Favourites.
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