Tough times require extraordinary measures. During this latest economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak, you may be finding yourself short on funds. Government programs can provide some help to get you through but there are other ways you can use to save some money yourself. We have assembled some of the top frugal living tips for beginners who are facing tight times.
Meal Prep
Whether you live alone or with a large family, food costs can add up quickly. By planning your weekly meals and making as many as you can ahead of time you’re able to save on your overall food budget. Find recipes ahead of time and make meals that will keep well. For meals that you cant make ahead of time, figure out your ingredient list and only buy what you need for those meals. Just think of all the times you go to the grocery store and fill your cart with items not on your list. The modern grocery store is setup to get you to buy more than you need.
Try Grocery Pickup
Stores like Walmart now offer grocery pickup options at many of their stores. While this makes many people feel safer by not having to physically go into the store, it can save you money as well. As we mentioned before impulse buys add up over time. Placing your order online and picking it up, or having it delivered, you can avoid those items you find that you “need” walking the isles.
Buy Generic
Brand name items almost always cost more. Many of the same factories that make those name brand items also make generic or store brand goods. Simply put, packaging with a different label, and a different name, can greatly increase the price you pay at checkout. Why pay more for the same exact item?
Stock Up
Buying bulk isn’t always the cheapest option, however, when you can buy staples and non-perishable items in larger quantities you can often save some cash. When you find a good deal, buying in bulk also makes sense Another plus is you don’t have to go the store as often.
Use Coupons
Coupons have been around for awhile, and for good reason. They save money. Just remember, just because you have a coupon for something doesn’t mean you have to buy it. If you don’t need it right now or have no room to safely store it, don’t buy it. Most stores offer their own coupons and local papers will usually carry an assortment weekly.
Grow Your Own Food
Planting a garden is a great way to save money. Fresh fruits and vegetables taste much better when you know where theyre coming from, especially if you grew then yourself.
5 Tips for Gardening When You Have No Space
Buy Used
Visit your local thrift stores or yard sales. While many stores have junk and items others don’t want anymore, you can find some great deals at times. This is the same for clothing and home items. Occasionally valuables show up. Inventory at the thrift store or yard sales can vary considerably between each and can change often, so it’s often worthwhile to stop in regularly.
Ditch the Cable Bill
With so many options available now is the time to cut the cord. With a WiFi connection we now have access to unlimited amounts of free or low cost entertainment. Free options such as YouTube also have paid subscriptions such as YouTube Premium. Some are include with services you may already be using. Such as Amazon Prime and Prime Video.
Do It Yourself
Not all of us has a green thumb or mechanical aptitudes. However, with the advent of the internet you can learn virtually anything, and have access to information at our fingertips. Free courses on most subjects are available on many platforms. YouTube has millions of videos on how to make, do, or fix, nearly anything.
Other DIY Projects to look into can be making your own laundry detergent, beauty products, home decor, etc.
Free Activities
In most locations you can find free activities to do. Look up your local parks and recreation department or Chamber of Commerce. Visit a park witht he family for some outdoor games and family time. You don’t need to pay for something to have fun.
Family Activities to do This Fall
These ideas are just a start when it comes to frugal living for beginners. Checkout Pinterest or Facebook for many other ideas others have on frugal living and living a budget while still enjoying life.
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