It’s good to save money. Whether you’re saving for something specific or just so that you have some money set aside for a rainy day in an emergency fund, it is essential to save as much as you can without putting your daily finances at risk.
When you first look at your outgoings compared to your income, you might think that saving isn’t going to be possible. However, even saving just $10 a week is going to be better than saving nothing at all, and savings can often be made on everyday items that can add up. Here are the best ways to save money every day – soon, you’ll have a nice contingency fund set aside, just in case.
Set A Budget
When you want to save money, it’s good to set a budget. Work out precisely what you have to spend each month and take that from your salary. Then, whatever is left is you ‘spare money’. This money can be split into two parts; one part will be for enjoying and having fun through the month, and the other part will be to put into your savings fund.
Some months will offer more of one type of money and less of another, but this can change depending on what is happening; if you have a birthday to buy for or a vacation to take, you will be spending more and saving less, but as long as you save something then you are doing well.
Use Coupons
Coupons are a great way to save money on everyday items. You can find them in the newspapers and online – sometimes they will be emailed to you if you’ve signed up for a newsletter, and sometimes you’ll have to go searching for them. You can get a coupon for almost everything, from groceries to websites with a Squarespace coupon. The key is to check for coupons before you spend any money, as you might be able to save a reasonable amount without realizing it.
Once you have used your coupon, you can put the money you saved straight into your savings account. You won’t miss it as without the coupon, you would have spent it anyway, and it will be a fantastic way to ensure you keep topping up your special fund.
Don’t Compare Yourself
It is easy to slip into bad spending habits when you compare yourself to others. Seeing what other people have in their homes, what they’re wearing, what they’re driving, or where they’re heading on vacation can make you want to spend more money to keep up with them.
Firstly, this is never a good idea – trying to be like everyone else will only lead to unhappiness in the end. Secondly, you’ll be spending far too much money on things you don’t need. It’s far better to save that money and put it to one side. Once you’ve got enough, you can buy something you want or need with it.
