Finding ways to further your frugal efforts is becoming harder. While it is necessary to think of new strategies, some time-honored traditions still hold true.
1. Try The Dollar Store
You can find many useful items at dollar stores. They carry a well-stocked line of food items, school supplies, decorations, housewares & books! Books that would normally cost $25+ will literally cost you $1.
2. Your Local Food Bank Can Help
If you apply for assistance at an organization like this, you will receive produce and other staples to help out your weekly budget. With fresh produce and a few more canned goods, you will also be able to provide your family with healthy meals.
3. Learn to Combine Ingredients
By doing this, you can create great casseroles and soups. One can of cream soup, one can of vegetables and a can of the least expensive biscuits can make a great meal. Mix and place the canned goods in a casserole dish and top with biscuits. Bake until done.
4. Keep Winter Heating Costs Low
How about adding inexpensive throws and blankets to the couch so everyone can wrap up? You’ll stay warmer when they are not moving around and you’ll use less heat for the home. Everyone is warm when they are well-wrapped and enjoying a hot drink!
5. Check with Local Farms and Ranches
These are great sources for end-of-season produce. This is when the fields will be stripped of any remaining plants. Ask if you can have produce for free if you pick or dig it yourself. This is a great time to gather potatoes, apples, root crops and berries.
6. Go Back to Basics!
Create healthy snacks from fresh produce and fruit. Do not purchase expensive packages of cookies, soft drinks and ice cream. Drink water with dinner and snacks, using sodas for a special treat. Make your own ice cream or yogurt shakes. Keep it healthy and cheap.
7. Get the Most Out of Your Clothes
For instance, clothes must be worn twice before washing. This saves at least one load of washing a week (saving you time) and will cut down on the use of water and energy (saving you money). Go one step further – wash clothes by hand and hang to dry over racks.
8. Become Handy in the Garage
Learn to change the oil in your car. Do not take it to a shop. On most vehicles, it’s easy and you can save even more money by learning how to perform other basic maintenance.
9. Stay In
Create a circle of family or friends when you need some outside entertainment. Do not go out to dinner or the movies. Arrange for everyone to meet at one home and have a pot luck, game nigh or movie screening. Have fun, share your favorite past-times and enjoy good company.
10. Barter & Trade
For instance, when you need tires on the car or truck, check out the used section in your local newspaper or online. You can advertise your needs for an affordable price or for a barter. Take what you have and trade for what you need. When there isn’t money to even buy a good used product, you may be able to trade! Never be afraid to ask.
Ashley Johnson enjoys writing about saving money, recycling, travel tips and Mint Coupons.