Ready to give the frugal life a shot? Here are nine simple ways to get started:
1. Befriend the Library
Buying books gets expensive. Take a trip to your local library; and you'll find all the books available free of charge.
2. Eat Out Less Often
Eating out is fun, but far more expensive than eating at home. Challenge yourself to eat at home more often – even if it's just once more a month, and watch your bank account grow. Then, find ways to minimise the cost of eating out when you do decide to treat yourself.
3. Switch to Online/Mobile Bill Pay
Save yourself a stamp, errand expenses, and avoid late fees by paying your bills online or by mobile money. You can pay direct to your creditors, or set up automatic bill pay with your bank; and take yourself out of the equation entirely.
4. Group Errands
Reduce your gas bill by grouping your errands and only driving when you need to. For even more savings, consider biking or walking when you don't have far to go.
5. Make Your Own Cleaners
Home-made cleaners work just as well as store-bought cleaners and at a fraction of the price. Stock up on basic cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda; and you'll be ready for any cleaning task that comes your way.
6. Seek Freebies
Freebies are fun and budget-friendly. Look online for a wide-array of free or cheap offers, and enjoy a mailbox bursting with goodies. Like to try new products? Then, this is a particularly good savings strategy for you.
7. Wash in Cold
Cut your electric bill substantially by washing your laundry in cold water. Your clothes will still come out clean, and your hot water heater won't have to work nearly as hard.
8. Flip a Switch
Reduce your electric bill even further by turning off lights and other electronics when they aren't in use. It may seem like a small thing, but you're sure to see the difference on your next electric bill.
9. Change Your Own Oil
Skip the quick lube, and change your own oil. You'll reduce your tab to the price of oil and a filter, and maybe even save time too – quick lubes aren't always as quick as the name suggests.
Courtesy:
BeiYangu