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30 Common Sense Tips To Reduce Expenses

With the high cost of gas and groceries these days it is a wonder anyone can make ends meet. You might feel like your budget is already stretched as thin as it can go but you would be surprised. Here are 30 ways to cut expenses. Try just a few of them and see if you can start saving more of your paycheck each week.

1 Save on energy costs - use power-saving CFL lights, monitor and change your thermostat's temperature as required during daytime and night and don't leave lights/appliances on when you don't require them.

2. Go for a matinee show on weekdays. Avoid weekends.

3. Want to spend some time with friends? Instead of going out have a fun night of coffee, cards and good conversation.

4. Do you eat out at work? Plan ahead and pack your lunch.

5. Share rides to work with co-workers or use public transportation.

6. Go generic on prescription and over the counter drugs whenever possible.

7. Make a list when you go grocery shopping and stick to it. Use coupons on items you normally buy and try to shop on double coupon days. Stocking up on non perishables or items that can be frozen is also a good idea when they are on sale.

8. Try to limit long distance calls to nights and weekends unless you have an unlimited calling plan.

9. At the end of the day get into the habit of putting all your spare change in a jar. Once it is full roll it and put it in a savings account. Some banks will even count it for you for free.

10. Buy clothing off season and never pay full price. Often what you find at one store full price will offer something similar on sale.

11. If you smoke quit! Not only will you save a ton of money but your health will greatly improve.

12. Install a water saver type shower head.

13. Save the cost of a gym membership and work out at home.

14. Maintain your car yourself - i.e., do basic stuff like changing the oil, washing it, etc.

15. Shop discount stores. But be careful, sometimes you can still find the items cheaper on sale somewhere else.

16. Get out from underneath credit card debt by making more than the minimum payment each month.

17. Keep ingredients on hand for meals that you can have on the table in under 30 minutes. This just might keep you from ordering take out if you had a busy day.

18. Don't be afraid to ask for a deal when buying large ticket items such as cars and furniture.

19. Is rent high where you live? consider getting a roommate or move if you have to.

20. Do you freecycle? Many communities have local chapters that you can sign up for to give away or get things for free. Go to Freecycle.org for more information.

21. Stick with basic cable. Your family might balk at the idea but your wallet will thank you.

22. We all like to splurge once in a while on things like manicures but if are trying to save money consider doing this yourself.

23. Having a savings account just for emergencies is a must! Otherwise you'll end up resorting to credit cards. Try to put away just $5.00-$10.00 per week away and watch it add up. As you pay off debt increase your savings.

24. When shopping for your work wardrobe try to avoid anything that is "dry clean only".

25. Shop around for cheaper car insurance, homeowners, etc.

26. Cut back on soft drinks. Water is a much healthier alternative.

27. Have a yard sale. Not only will you make some extra cash but you will also get rid of excess clutter.

28. Always pay your bills on time. Late fees can really eat up your budget.

29. Consider planting a garden. Produce such as zucchini can be shredded and frozen for future recipes. Find information at your local library online on how to get started.

30. Know when to splurge. Cut back on the trivial things that eat up your paycheck and you can splurge occasionally on something fun.

These are just a few tips to help you stretch your budget. You might even come up with a few of your own!

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