5 Easy Ways to Save Money

I’ve noticed that any blog posts I write related to saving money are always a hit – so here’s another one. Here are five ways to spend a little less and save a little more!

1) Use a credit card that gives you cashback.

The 1% that I get back every time I use my credit card may not seem like a lot, but it sure felt like a lot when after a few years of saving up my rewards points, I bought a round-trip ticket to Belgium with it. My advice to you: get a rewards credit card, use it for as many of your purchases as you can, and then forget about those points being generated – until it’s enough to spend it on something substantial. Not sure which one to apply for? There are tons of rewards credit cards out there, but I like my Chase Freedom card. It gives me 1% back on all purchases, and 5% back on purchases in select categories (i.e. gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, Amazon) that change every three months.

2) Install an online coupon generator.

Have you heard of Coupons at Checkout? If not, you need to get it – right now. Coupons at Checkout is a totally free extension that you can add to your internet browser either on your desktop computer or on your phone. Once installed, it will automatically identify coupons applied by previous purchasers, and then apply the one that gives you the biggest discount.

3) Make gifts.

We love spending money on the people we love. However, a homemade gift shows just as much love (maybe more) and costs a whole lot less. If you’re looking for ideas, a google search will yield tons – but you can start with this extensive list from The Spruce Crafts. I’m a fan of making people cards. A small piece of handmade artwork from a friend is often more meaningful than any expensive gift.

4) Use the 10-second rule.

The next time you’re making a purchase – whether online or in-person – take 10 seconds to ask yourself: Why am I buying this? Do I really need this? Will this thing help me? Will this thing bring me joy? Sometimes just taking the time to consider these questions before buying something will make you reconsider, and if you do still decide to make the purchase, it’s more likely that you won’t regret your decision.

5) Get a crockpot.

There’s really no better way to make a large amount of food for a little money than with a slow cooker. If you google “slow cooker recipes on a budget,” you’ll find lots – here’s a list of 40 delicious crock-pot recipes under $5.

If you have any other tips for saving money in daily life, please let us know in the comments below!