Inflation is definitely upon us and you can feel it every time you pay your rent, get gas, buy groceries, and, basically, do anything that requires you to part ways with your hard-earned money.
While the effect of inflation is undeniable for everyone, it’s the families (especially big ones) that are really feeling it right now and they’re the ones that are making the biggest adjustments to cut costs.
Looking for more ways to save? We’ve rounded up a few money-saving tips for you so make sure to read on.
Combine trips and errands
Now that gas prices are through the roof, it’s important to plan your trips more mindfully so you can do more with each one. Instead of taking multiple trips to run your errands, map out all the places can go to in one day and do as much as you can. Going to the supermarket then home and then to the post office and back home is such a waste of gas when you can just go to the supermarket first, the post office next, and then, finally, home. Combined trips will not only save you gas but can help you save time as well.
Carpool with family and friends
Living close to family and friends can be such a blessing during these hard times. If you know someone who’s looking to save some money, too, try and work out a carpooling deal with them.
Plan your meals
Meal planning doesn’t always mean cooking everything in a big batch and then re-heating the food before you eat. It can also simply mean planning your meal for the whole week, buying everything in one go, and still cooking everything fresh daily. Either way, it’s a great way to save time, gas, and money. It’ll save you from the temptation to get take out or order in as well.
Be a smart shopper
It doesn’t look like prices will be dropping any time soon so the best we can do to save money is to be a smart shopper. Compare prices, buy produce that’s in season, and stock up on essentials when they’re on sale. If meat prices are too high, try substituting with fish or tofu instead. You could even try going vegetarian for a while -- it’ll be better for you, too! Be open to trying cheaper brands. You’ll be surprised to find that some generic brands are just as good, if not better, than the branded items you buy.
If you have a big family, shop at wholesale clubs to get better deals on bulk items. Membership can be anywhere from $45 to $120 a year but they always have sales, deals, and promotions that’ll help you save in the long run.
Another way to be a smart shopper is to use coupons. They’re everywhere! Check the back of your receipts, sign up for newsletters and rewards programs, or use apps to help you find amazing coupons that can cut your bill by as much as half.
Do a “No Spend Day”
Love a good challenge? Designate one day a week where you don’t spend at all. No eating out, no shopping, no buying anything -- nothing! You can even include not going anywhere so you don’t consume gas, though this can be tricky if you have kids, a job, and a schedule you need to follow. You can be as strict or as flexible as you want with this challenge.
Make it a family affair
Saving will benefit your whole family so it only makes sense to get everyone involved in the whole process. Explain what you’re doing and why and tell them how you’re planning on doing it. Give them a taste of the real world by getting them involved. Take them to the store with you and compare prices with them. There are so many ways to teach kids about saving money at an early age and it’s a lesson they’ll benefit from for the rest of their lives.
According to experts, we can expect prices to level out by 2023. It’s not certain, but also not impossible. Until then, all we can really do is save money for even rainier days.