#1 Make more meals at home.
This includes that cup of coffee you buy every day. Do you need that cup of coffee on the way to work? Could you pack a lunch? Can you make something for dinner that will provide for a few meals? This all adds up, think about $5.00 per day just on coffee. There is an average of 22 work days in a month so that alone is $110 savings per month. You sometimes can eat at home for an entire week with what you spend going out to eat just one time. Also, at home, you know what your cooking with and home-cooked meals tend to be healthier.
#2 Be creative with what you spend at the grocery store.
Where do you shop? Could you buy in bulk to save a little? This is a big part of your monthly spending and a little attention will go a long way. Create a budget and stick to it. When you shop look at the price, do the math, and make the choice that is based on good value for the money. Maybe that brand name is not the best value. Often the off-brand is made by the brand name company so you might want to give it a try and see if you like the less expensive option. Sometimes brand names matter but can you really tell what can your green beans come from?
#3 Pay attention to gas prices.
Buy at a station that is convenient for your daily route. This way you’re not creating drive time looking for a station. Pay with cash as it’s always cheaper, once you use a credit card they charge more. Also evaluate your driving habits, rather than going out three times a day to grab something you might want to make a list and do it all in one trip.
