5 Ways to Save Some Money This Year

This is a guest post

As the economy struggles beneath the weight of the recession and the unemployment rate remains stagnant at over 8 percent, saving money where ever possible is a huge priority for many households. When trying to cut back on expenses, it is important to look at all of your shopping habits to see where you may be paying a lot more than you have to. Here are five excellent ways to make sure you optimize your saving this year.

Be Thrifty

Long considered to be exclusively the haven of poor people, compulsive hoarders and collectors, thrift stores should be your first stop when you need a wardrobe change. Many thrift shops provide a large variety of clothing for all ages and sizes. They’re also a great place to pick up perfectly good household items like blenders, slow cookers, hair dryers and lamps for a fraction of what they would cost new. Other commonly found thrift store items include children’s toys, books, games, movies, music, furniture, decorations and craft supplies. If you’re looking for something, chances are good that you’ll find it at one of these establishments.

Shrink Your Cellular Bill

Many people pay a lot of money per month to be able to talk, text, download and browse to their hearts’ content. Even without unlimited services, these monthly bills can add up to an astronomical amount. To save money, switch to a cheaper plan, even if it allows less texting, talking and data usage. Instead of relying as much on costly services to stay in touch with friends and family, write them letters, emails or send them an instant message. Those services cost nothing. Better yet, cut down your phone usage and switch to a pay as you go plan, buying air time only when you need it.

Price Comparison Sites

The popularity of websites that compare prices on different sources for products and services has exploded because of the amount of money they can save people. You can find these sites for just about anything from mobile packages, car loans, internet service carriers, insurance, home loans, credits cards, utilities and more.

Don’t Shop Hungry

One of the worst things you can do for your wallet and waistline is shop for groceries on an empty stomach. Even if you weren’t hungry when you left home, simply being around packages of food and the delicious smells from the deli and bakery can have your stomach growling within minutes. In such a state, you’re likely to buy more food than you need, as well as foods that may be exorbitantly priced or unhealthy.

Take the Car Less

Fuel prices continue to increase, making driving an expensive habit. Unless you’re very far away from your destination or there is no public transport available, consider walking, riding a bicycle or taking the bus or train. These all provide great exercise while saving you the cost of gas. If you’re very close to key locations, you may consider selling the car altogether to save the additional costs on insurance, taxes and wear and tear.