Some Ways to Save Money You May Not Have Thought About

Realistically, the vast majority of us are looking for ways to make our money work harder. Spending less on certain essential items is definitely one way to do this. However, in practice, this is often easier said than done and changing our spending habits can be quite difficult.
So if you are looking for some tips for how to save money, try starting with these suggestions.

Think about how you shop

Much of this is a mind-set change. With things like your weekly groceries, make sure you aren’t going to the shop feeling hungry, and avoid the tempting, end-of-aisle offerings that trick you into making impulse purchases. Get a rewards card with your regular supermarket which will often give you money-back vouchers on certain items that you regularly buy. Perhaps also consider a credit card which will pay you cashback for purchases made on it, though you should always ensure you can pay this balance back in full each month.

For things like shopping for electronic items or clothes, try comparing prices online, rather than buying the first item you see. You can also find good cashback deals on certain websites, meaning you are effectively ‘paid back’ some of the money you have spent. 

Reduce your travel spending

A surprisingly large amount of money can be saved if you change your driving habits. Becoming a more considerate driver will help you use less petrol, i.e. leaving a bigger gap between yourself and the car in front, accelerating and braking less aggressively, not speeding - especially on motorways, will all reduce your fuel costs, as well as help contribute positively towards a healthier environment.

When it comes to trains, use season tickets when it comes to regular journeys, such as the one you make to work each day. For longer trips try to book online as far in advance as possible. Also try to use advance tickets where possible, i.e. where you have to travel on a set train on a specific date.

Cut down on electric and gas prices

Energy prices are one of the quickest rising costs at the moment, seemingly going up a staggering amount far above inflation every year. So finding ways to cut back on your gas and electricity bills will save you a large amount of money across to course of the year, especially during the winter months. Firstly, consider the things you can do yourself such as ensuring that lights are turned off when not used, not leaving devices such as televisions and games consoles on stand-by, filling up the kettle with only as much water as you need etc.

After you have thought about your own usage, then it is time to do some research into other providers. If you haven’t already, it’s well worth using a comparison tool to see whether you could save money elsewhere and make the switch if necessary - something which is far easier than you may think!

The Best Ways to Get the Things You Want for Less Money

While many of us know how important it is to save our money and to keep some packed away for a rainy day, that doesn't stop us from wanting things and from feeling the need to make the occasional purchase. Of course if we stuck rigidly to a budget that let no room for whimsy then we could quickly save up quite a sum of money, but what would be the point? If you don't enjoy your money at all, then what is the point of having it? And wouldn't it make life rather miserable? (Which is not to say there aren't ways you can have fun for free...). 

This is a fine line to walk, and for many it can be tricky deciding how much of their income they are going to spend on things they don't need and how much they are going to put away. One of the best ways to compromise though is to get the things you want for less. That doesn't mean buying alternatives that you don't want as much either - I mean actually buying the very same things for less money. This way you can still enjoy your money and the things you love, but you won't be spending excessive amounts or more than necessary. Here I will share with you some of the best ways you can get the things you want right now without spending as much money. 

Shop Around

This is the most obvious and straight forward way to get things for less, and even if you're buying something brand new that's only been out a few days you will normally find variation in the price if you shop around. The best place to look of course is online, and if you browse the web you'll find lots of great online stores that offer the same things for less money. Of course if you can find a deal then that's even better. 

Wait

The other 'obvious' way to get your items for less is to simply wait a while until they come down in price. You may struggle to do this if you really want the item - but try just making a pact with yourself to make the purchase on X date. This way you know it's coming so you'll find it easier to wait.

If you're someone who doesn't need to get everything brand new then you can also wait until you find the items second hand - often there will be no noticeable difference. Ex-Display items are also another very good way to get your items for less as are refurbished models and ones with light imperfections. 

Use Cashback Sites

Cashback sites are sites that pays you for shopping. Basically you buy online, but you do so by following a link on the cashback site which means that the site then gets some commission for referring you as a customer - commission which they share with you. It takes a while to pay out, but you can often get 5-10% back on your larger purchases which is worthwhile. 

Upgrade Regularly

You might think that getting the latest iPhone every time it comes out would be an expensive idea - but it's not really if you keep each model in the best condition possible (use a good case and screen protector) and then sell it in order to buy the new one. This way you'll be spending about $150 every 18 months or so and you'll constantly have the latest gadgets. Likewise you can also get money off by trading in your cars, films, games and pretty much anything else where hygiene isn't an issue.

And speaking of trading you can also get new things by trading with your friends. Two of you want to play two new games? Then why not just buy one each then swap?

Rent

In some cases you don't even necessarily have to buy the item you want. For instance, if you want to drive a brand new car that you can't afford you can do so by just renting the vehicle. This way you may be able to afford something you otherwise couldn't and you'll also find that things like MOTs are taken care of for you. Find out if car hire is right for you here: http://financialplan.about.com/od/personalfinance/a/Should-You-Lease-Or-Buy-Your-Next-Car.htm 

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk is always a great way to save money because it means more guaranteed profit for the dealers. If you only want one item then, consider doing a 'group buy' and then splitting the cost among friends to take advantage of the savings. You can even find people online willing to go in with you if the item you want is a little more 'niche'. For things that you actually use in bulk though - just stock up!

Author Bio: Nick Dunin likes to blog about finance related issues. He provides help on acquiring the loan that is most correct for you and your requirements through http://www.debtconsolidation.com.au.