Easy Ways to Cut Spending

Cutting back doesn’t necessarily have to be difficult. Once you get into the habit, it becomes automatic. To start spending less and saving more, try these easy tips: 

1. Go Generic
Check out generic or store brands at the grocery store. You may be surprised at how similar they are to name brand products in every way but the packaging and, more importantly, the price. 

2. Shop the Sales
Retail stores are constantly having sales nowadays so there is no reason to pay full price for anything. Make it your habit to only look at the sales or clearance racks for clothes and other items—it’s not as hard as you may think. Most stores have discount cards and distribute coupons in the mail or in the newspapers. Take advantage of the savings. 

3. Shop with a List
Curb your impulse shopping by going with a list and make a deal with yourself not to stray. Extra items here and there really add up and you don’t really need more stuff, do you? 

4. Bottle your own Water
You’ve probably heard of how much bottled water Americans are buying—over $11 billion in the U.S. alone in 2007, according to Beverage Marketing, a provider of beverage industry data. Besides being bad for the environment, it’s bad for your wallet. Why not just use your tap water and fill your own reusable bottle? 

5. Bring your own Snacks
Whether it’s a vending machine habit or fast food, carrying your own snacks is always less expensive, and is usually healthier. This is especially beneficial for children who aren’t immune to bad habits either. You may have been through the phase when your child was hungry or thirsty every time they saw a fast food restaurant. Purchasing snacks can definitely add up. Get into the habit of bringing your own. 

6. Shop at Home
Most people have a lot of unused or partially used items in their cupboards—food, toiletries, hobby supplies, office supplies, etc . . . you may have even forgotten what you bought. Start a mission to use what you already have and in the process, you’ll clear your cupboards.