Saving money can feel overly intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. While you can cut your spending in specific categories to save up, there will always be the essentials you’ll need to pay for regardless.
Things like groceries, a car payment, and medications are things you’ll need to buy anyway. So, how can you continue spending on things you need while saving money all the while?
In this article, we’re covering six ways to do just that. We’re sharing our top secrets, from better car financing to generic medicine alternatives to keep your bank account full without cutting your spending.
1. Get Better Car Financing
Unless you live somewhere with good public transportation, there’s a good chance you have a car, or you need to buy one soon. When you work with the wrong dealerships and financial lenders, you can walk away with a high monthly payment that will eat away at your income every month. But there’s a better way.
You can finance your car smarter using a lender like Kiwi Car Loan to save money on your monthly payments while still driving around in a well-oiled machine.
2. Use Rewards Programs
Another great option to save money on things you have to buy anyway is signing up for a reward program, like Ibotta or something similar. These programs give you cash back on things you would have purchased regardless, so why not tap into those extra savings?
You can save a few cents per item or shave off a few dollars here and there. It all adds up, and then you can use this extra cash on something you want or need!
3. Grocery Shop Smarter
We all have to grocery shop, but some of us do it smarter than the rest. It’s easy to get distracted by things that look or sound good at the grocery store, leading you to buy a bunch of things you don’t need or won’t really eat.
Instead, shop with a plan by coming up with 3-5 meals for the week and plan to make extras so you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch. Then, create a list containing only the ingredients needed for those meals and maybe one or two additional snacks. You could even reward yourself with one “fun” buy each trip to rope in your reckless spending.
4. Opt for Generic
If you have the choice, always choose generic medications, whether over the counter or prescription.
These generics have the same active ingredients as the branded versions but are typically much more affordable for the patient. You can ask your doctor or your pharmacist about available generic alternatives.
5. Ask About Discounts
Think about how many things you buy regularly. Now, think about how many times you ask if any discounts are available. You may be walking away from savings opportunities simply because you don’t ask.
The next time you book a hotel, a flight, or something large but necessary, talk to the sales agent about any promotions they may currently have. You may be surprised by the savings you can access simply by asking.
6. Learn to Make Your Favorite Beverage At Home
Is your morning coffee habit putting a dent in your wallet? While it may seem like a small amount of money, getting coffee every morning adds up.
Instead, try to learn how to make your favorite beverage at home and invest in the products you need to do it. Soon enough, you’ll have made money back that you spent by avoiding your daily coffee shop pit stop, and you can make fancy drinks for your friends!
Think Smart, Save Smart
If you want to start saving money, it doesn’t require significant budget cuts. It just requires a smarter perspective on how you spend your money and a bit of extra forethought for things like grocery planning, asking about discounts, or thinking twice before settling on car financing. Use these tips as a jumping-off point, and you’ll have more money in the bank before you know it.