Six simple tips to get more from your money
With the economy slowing and prices rising most South African households are having to tighten their belts. Here are 6 simple money saving tips and ideas to help you make the most of your hard-earned money.
1. Entertain at home.
Spending time with friends and family is a great way to relax. But not if it ends up costing you a lot of money. You don’t always have to go out somewhere. Have a casual braai or simple meal at home. And you don’t have to invite everyone at once. A few small gatherings of six or eight people will give you a chance to spend quality time with your friends.
2. Enjoy the outdoors.
We live in a beautiful country so take advantage of it by spending time at a local park, beach or nature spot. It’s not only healthy for you, it’s also free!
3. Look out for low-cost entertainment.
Museums and art galleries offer affordable ways to relax. Be sure to keep track of free exhibitions and public events in your community.
4. Have a money free weekend.
Once a month ask your family to think up ways of spending no money for one weekend. Bake your own bread, go to the library, enjoy the outdoors instead of going to a mall. There are many ways to get more out of a weekend other than spending more money. Over time, these frugal weekends could help you save up for a family holiday.
5. Make your own lunch.
Buying sandwiches, cool drinks and coffee can quickly add up to a big total expense every month. Even if you’re only spending R25 a day on lunch and snacks, this works out to R500 a month or R6 000 a year. Just think what else you could do with this money.
6. Start a lift club.
Whether it’s getting to work or dropping the kids off at school, sharing the burden of petrol can save you money. Ask your friends or colleagues if they’d like to start a lift club. You will all benefit in the end.