So you’re looking to save more money this year. Well, that’s a wise decision, and you’re far from alone. In fact, many Americans are trying to pad their wallets a bit more this year.
But the average household is only saving about three percent, making financial responsibility a distant goal.
However, there’s no better time to start saving than the present. Here are five easy ways you can save more money this year.
1. Buy Prescription Medications Online
The average person spends over $1,000 per year on medication. But what if there was a way to save tons of money on your essential medications without having to even leave your home?
Well, now you can.
Plenty of pharmacies have started to shift their efforts to the web. Not only can you buy the medicine you need, but you can potentially save a few bucks in the process by learning about generic forms of the medicines you use every day.
Shop now at an online pharmacy and you could potentially save yourself quite a bit of cash.
2. Combine Trips to Save Gas
How many times have you found yourself shuttling the kids to and from school or soccer practice only to forget the dry cleaning? Just as you’re about to settle in and get cozy, you have to muster the energy to leave the house and complete that one last chore.
Keeping track of who needs to go where and what needs to be done can save you quite a bit of gas money. Combine as many trips as you can.
For instance, while the kids are at practice, run over to the laundromat to drop off those clothes, then pick them up once practice is finished. You’ll save more money and have more time for yourself!
3. Set Aside Money From Each Paycheck
The simple truth is that most of us don’t make enough to put a ton of cash into savings. We have the best intentions, sure, but once bills are paid, groceries are purchased, and the mortgage and car payments are taken care of, there isn’t exactly much to put away.
Try and get in the habit of setting aside a small amount from each paycheck. Even something small like 5 to 10 percent can add up over time. Think of it as an investment in your future self.
4. Save More Money With Smart Appliances
At some point in the past year or so, you’ve probably heard about popular smart appliances like the Google Home or Nest thermostats.
And these appliances are popular for quite a good reason. While they offer more convenience, letting you control the temperature from the palm of your hand, they can also save you some serious cash.
The average family spends $2,000 on energy costs each year. A Nest uses far less energy, cutting energy budgets by over $100.
5. Shop More Efficiently
If you’re one of those people who are guilty of splurging on snacks, it may be time to start creating a grocery list. This can be one of the best ways save more money each month.
Plan your family’s meals out a week in advance, then do the shopping for the week in one trip. You’ll end up saving yourself time and money. Plus eating at home gives you more time with your family.
Save Money Without Sacrificing Your Lifestyle
These tips can help anyone save more money this year. All you have to do is exercise a bit of discipline and stick to them. Soon you’ll have more money in no time!
Don’t forget to read our guide on financial planning so you can save money without having to lose the things you love.