It's tough to have a good time if you constantly end up finding yourself playing financial catch-up.



But there are ways you can easily improve your money affairs and still have a great time. Along with the bonus of lowering those stress levels that can affect the quality of your sleep and overall health .

With just a little discipline and ingenuity, within a short period of time, you will be able shave thousands of dollars off of your everyday expenses.

Ideas to Consider:

Transportation

Never purchase an automobile less than two years old. The value of new cars depreciate as soon as you drive them off the lot.

First pay off one car loan before you finance a second vehicle.

Do not buy on impulse. Shop around, read reports and choose a reliable vehicle with a good resale value.

Only get a vehicle you really need. Do you really need that $40,000 truck for just a few trips to the hardware store when you can often rent a truck for $20 per hour.

Figure out all of your expenses before purchasing a vehicle. Down payment, monthly payments, insurance, gas, oil, tune ups,and the necessary garage visits to keep up the manufacturers warranty.

Rather than take your aging car on a long road trip, consider renting one. It will save ware and tear on your day-to-day vehicle and if trouble should happen, you'll have a backup car available from the rental company.

Shop around for the best Insurance rates.

Consider increasing your deductible to have a smaller monthly payment.

Do you really need full coverage for that older vehicle?

Ask if your insurance company offers lower rates if you pay in advance.

Shop around for fuel prices.

Use public transportation whenever possible.

Save money and time by combining your shopping trips, and don't schedule them during busy traffic times.

Walk, or bike to whenever possible.

Ride share with other workers and your friends.

Keep your car tuned.

Restauranting

Limit how often you eat out.

Use coupons when available or eat out at lunch instead of the higher priced dinner hours.

Find a locally owned restaurant with specials.

Split a meal.

Order only what you want.

Don't go out to eat when you're very hungry. You will end up spending more money.

Home Savings

Winterize / summerize your home to help prevent heat loss/gain.

During the winter wear a sweater and keep your thermostat as low as you can remain comfortable. During the summer don't let yourself become misrable, but use your air conditioner as little as possible.

Take short showers.

Use cold water when washing your clothes whenever the materials will allow you to do so.

Close doors to rooms not being used. Close the heating/ air conditioner vents in those rooms.

Use your grill in the summer and oven in the winter.

Install water saving devices inside your home and in the yard.

Plant your yard, with native plants. Generally they will require less water and less attention.

Get some exercise and sweep your walks and driveway instead of using water or an electric blower.

Entertainment

How many cable channels do you really need? Why pay for channels you'll never watch? Try out Net Flicks and rent movies instead of rushing out to see the newest release.

Go to the movies during the lower priced matinee hours

Go for a walk, hike or a picnic. Enjoy life's simple pleasures.

Instead of subscribing to a magazine, read it at your local library or on the internet.

Buy used books.

Go to the movies during the low priced matinee hours.

Rent certain items instead of buying. Recreational gear for instance can be rented for much less than it would cost to buy them and you do not have to worry about storage.

Clothes

Don't spend an excessive amount on a trendy items that will quickly go out of style.

Never buy anything at full price.

Shop quality, not quantity. It is better to have a few items that you really like and look good on you, than a closet full of stuff you've lost interest in.

Buy in quantity if you find a good deals on basics, such as socks or undies.

You will always find great bargains at the end of the season specials.

Buy clothing that is easy to care for.

Don't go shopping impulsively or for emotional reasons.

Shopping is not an entertainment.

Bargain shop, compare prices, check out consignment stores, thrift stores, garage sales and online sales.

These money saving ideas are not going to cramp your style that much, but they are just little things you can do which will add up to substantial savings throughout the year.