7 Ways to Keep More Money in Your Pocket (Even in a Recession)
Excess spending hasn’t been a word on anybody’s lips for a while now. Finding ways to cut back or spend smarter are pieces of advice everybody could use in times like this. Here are 7 ways to help you save money during these rough economic times.
7. Cut your cable and be FREE
TV has transitioned nation-wide to over-the-air, all-digital broadcasting that’s available free to anyone with an antenna. Meaning, you can get what used to be considered ‘regular’ cable for free now. Many people end up with more channels now than when they were paying for it. If you’re in the afflicted group of on-demand addicts, there’s still hope. With tons of different entertainment sites on the web it’s easy to find just about anything you want to see through your computer. Research torrents or check out ovguide.com for a huge source of available streaming and downloadable content.
6. Become a better self-recycler
Your elders have surely shed some light on this topic with stories about the tinfoil that doubled as uphill snowshoes and a sandwich wrapper for their first year of college, but being smart about reusing doesn’t always have to be a struggle to be bearable. Simple ideas area available everywhere except from the manufacturers lips. Just think twice before throwing away those extra large plastic cups or the shirt that can be mended.
5. Cut food expenses
Food can easily be your highest daily expense and is easily influenced by choices in taste and motivation the day before. Making your own meals is a no brainer, but big tips like buying whole animals for meat lovers is easier than it might sound. Restaurant recipes are sometimes available through the web, pretending to dine out will keep the money protected.
4. Dress sharper spending less
Saying you’ll get on magazine covers might be out-stepping bounds, but a few stylistic changes with some thrift influence can still look great without a showy price attached. Avoid malls all-together, retails stores haven’t seem to be phased one bit from the recession so let them feel it by boycotting until your pocket weight is up to par again.
3. Chop cell phone costs
Cell phone companies have to balance their need for revenue with their desire to gain and keep customers. Trying to talk to your provider about finding corners to cut in your plan or deals they can make is a worthy idea. Pre-paid or pay-as-you-go phones are the ultimate option if a data plan is just too unbearable. Websites like CellSwapper.com and CellTradeUSA.com are on standby to help you find a way out of any binding fees involved.
2. Consider craigslist more often
Craigslist is every budgeter’s dreamland. You can find anything you need from people who are in the same boat as you at a reasonable if not great price. It’s also a great market for selling or getting rid of just about anything. The free section of the site speaks for itself in helping your savings along.
1. Just ask to reduce bills
You’d be surprised to know how many people have found ways to cut their bills back by simply talking to the providers and asking. Everything from cell phones to internet services at the very least will have a special offer going on that will work in your benefit. Don’t be afraid to ask, this is your money were talking about.
Veronica Davis is a freelance writer and internet business columnist. She works with several saving money sites and recommends to also look for an Ebay coupon when shopping, as you can find pretty much anything there. Also, check Freecycle.org to get free stuff in your area that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill.
