Spending Strategies That Will Boost Your Savings

I always like to share the latest tips, tricks, and ideas on saving you money. This week, let's take a look at spending habits and cheaper alternatives for everyday items. 

Frozen Produce 

I know, some of you are thinking that fresh is always better. Sometimes this is true, but not with everything. 

Most frozen veggies nowadays are flash frozen, which means they taste as fresh as the day they were frozen and sealed. They also retain their nutrients for much longer. 

Consider switching to frozen produce for certain things, like sides for meals. This will save you several dollars each time you substitute a frozen item for a fresh item and when you pick produce that flash freezes well, you can't even tell it has been. 

Don't Splurge on Convenience

This isn't always feasible, but when it is, do things yourself. Don't eat out for the fourth time this month because cooking seems too taxing that night. 

First of all, when you plan dinners for the week, pick simple meals that are easy to assemble. Dump and go crockpot meals or single sheet pan oven meals are great for this type of low-prep cooking. 

Stick to your menu for the week and avoid eating out altogether when you're really grinding to save extra cash.

Another tip on this topic — make your coffee at home! Even a cheap cup of coffee a day can cost you $60 – $70 monthly depending on your area. Skip buying coffee out and you're already saving a good bit of cash.

Also, if you ever hire maids or pay for car washes, try to limit your spending here as well by doing those tasks yourself (or delegating to household members!) 

Pick Up Your Take Out 

If you still want to eat out from time to time, don't have the food delivered. Picking up your take out or fast food will save you a lot on what you spend for it. Paying for convenience does have its perks, but it's not a mindset for those trying to save. 

Do a Monthly Expenses Breakdown

Go through each and every bill you have for the month. Do you have an old subscription or membership you forgot about and never use? You might even have several and not be aware. 

These types of things are usually low in price and auto draft from your account, but don't let them continue if you know you don't use it. Doing a massive, in-depth breakdown like this every few months is the best way to get rid of bills you don't need to continue paying for.