I spend a lot of time giving you specific deals, coupons and free events. As it seems you are generally pretty satisfied with the content on display here, but I thought I would take a bit of a new angle today. Don’t worry I am going to stay consistent in the sense that I am going to help you save. I just figured I should compile a few of my favorite tips about saving money in our daily lives into one single post. From there, feel free to explore and find out exactly what I am talking about.
- Free Entertainment
In my family, we love anything free. Then again who doesn’t? I recently posted about free movies and concerts here on Long Island. I realize that was a little location-specific, but I am hoping it led you to research your area. Many towns and counties host free events. The best way to find things for your family is through community websites. More specifically, look into your local chamber of commerce or park and recreation sites to find free movies, concerts, fairs and additional activities.
- Smart Shopping
It’s no secret that the majority of my site is revolved around shopping like a genius. I offer advice and tips along with current deals. This is just a little reminder of the different possibilities you have when it comes to saving a dollar.
1. Rewards programs encourage return business. Sign up for loyalty programs through your favorite sites and watch the points rack up. These points will turn into gift cards or additional savings.
2. Free Shipping is one of the easiest ways to save money that many people don’t take advantage of. Go to freeshipping.org and find everything you want and need without those all too expensive handling fees.
3. Couponing is not necessarily my favorite way to save, but it does work. Websites like retailmenot and nerdwallet are good resources to find online and printable coupons to meet most of your needs.
4. I never pay to shop online; in fact I get paid to do so. I use mrrebates.com for all of my shopping needs. If you are not a member yet go ahead and sign up. They will start you off with $5.00 cash back. The money is definitely the best part, but in a close second are the 2000 stores you can shop through them.
- Something New
One thing I don’t spend too much time on is the money we save by being conscious of our energy consumption. I had to mention this because it helps our family and it is one of my best kept secrets. My first tip on maximum savings is to make sure you have the best plan for the energy consumed in your home. If you feel you may be overspending on utility bills it’s time for you to look for cheaper utilities prices from an energy program in your area that will offer you great service and easier payments. Not only will they help you find a better plan, they will offer an abundance of tips to help you conserve.
- Menu Planning
Planning out my family meals is one of the newest ways we are benefiting from major savings. I have yet to turn to extreme couponing. Instead I find inexpensive easy to make meals through other bloggers with a love for saving money. I will print a coupon or two for more expensive items that we use. I just don’t see the point in spending all of my time cutting coupons for items my family doesn’t need. It works for some, but hoarding can goods isn’t really my thing.
So there you have it: a guide to how you make it work on one income, 2 kids and a dog.
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