Sometimes, we all spend a little more than we should. Whether you’re a frugal person or not, it’s easy to convince yourself that splurging on an extra chocolate bar at the checkout or buying yourself a coffee on the way to work isn’t a big deal. Unfortunately, these little expenses quickly add up, and when you get to the end of the month, you may suddenly discover that you don’t have enough cash left over to add to your savings account.
If you’ve been saving for something special lately, or you simply want to make sure that you have some emergency savings in place in case something goes wrong, the following tips will help you to find more money for your future…
STOP SPENDING ON THINGS YOU DON’T NEED
Perhaps the easiest way to find more money for your savings account is to stop spending cash on the things you don’t need. Sit down with your bank statements or scroll through your bank app and look at all the items you spend on each month. Some things will be essential, like food, rent payments, and even insurance costs. On the other hand, you’re sure to find a few things that you don’t really need to spend on.
For instance, if you’re paying every month for a gym membership that you never use, then now’s the time to make a change. Giving up on your gym membership doesn’t mean that you have to give up on exercising. You could always try exercising at home or going for runs in your local area to help you stay fit.
BE MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT
If you want to put more money for your savings account, but you don’t want to stop having fun in the process, then you can always start by reducing your energy use. Turn your thermostat down as far as you can without feeling uncomfortable, or simply choose a lower temperature for your laundry. There’s nothing wrong with wrapping up in a blanket when you feel cold instead of turning up the heat. At the same time, did you know that simply keeping the tires on your car inflated can be enough to improve your fuel mileage and help the environment?
SWITCH SUPPLIERS OR BRANDS
A lot of us continue to spend more than we need to on items from specific brands, or services form certain companies, simply because we get into the habit of sticking with one provider. However, if you’re willing to compare your options, you may be able to find a much better deal elsewhere. Consider stepping away from your favourite brands at the grocery store and trying some of the store’s own brand items instead. Alternatively, head online and see whether you can save cash by switching your electricity, gas, mobile phone or broadband provider.
LOOK FOR DEALS EVERYWHERE
Sometimes, all you need to do to get a better deal is keep your eyes open. Thanks to the wide range of online forums and social media channels, it’s easier than ever to find discounts for your favourite products. You can sign up for an email newsletter to be the first to hear about an upcoming sale or discount with a brand you love. Or you could consider whether buying in bulk will save you more in the long-term. If your local stores have any loyalty schemes that you can sign up to, take advantage, provided that it’s free for you to become a member. Just don’t be tricked into buying things you don’t want or need just because they’re on offer.
DON’T FORGET THE SMALL STUFF
Finally, small actions like saving your spare change in a jar might not seem helpful at first, but it can quickly begin to add up. Bagging up your change can be a great way to make sure that you have a few extra pounds to take to the bank at the end of each month when you want to add to your savings account. After all, every little bit helps when you’re achieving those financial goals.
What do you do to add to your savings pot each month? Let me know in the comments below. I hope these ideas will give you a little motivation to start saving more and increase your rainy day fund!
This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content 🙂
