While most people can think of big, expansive ways that they can save themselves money in the long run, it’s often harder to think about things you can do on a daily basis to cut down on your spending. But when you break your spending down to a daily amount, you’ll see just how much money you could be saving if you spent just a little less every day. So to help you find a way to start doing this for yourself, here are three ideas that just might help you save money on a daily basis.
Create A Weekly Meal Plan
A lot of what people spend their money on is day is food. If you eat out often, you’re probably spending a lot more money on feeding yourself than you would if you made your own food or got meals from a grocery store. Knowing this, Brittney Castro, a contributor to CNBC.com, recommends that you take some time each week to create a meal plan for the upcoming days. When you do this, you won’t feel like you have to just buy something from a fast food joint simply because you don’t have the time or energy to think about how else to get yourself some food. This will also mean going to the grocery store and sticking to your shopping list for your meals, which can also help you save a lot of money you otherwise would have spent on impulse buys.
Think About Your Transportation
If you leave your house each day, whether for work or for play, you’re likely spending some money on your transportation needs. Especially if you drive your own car, it’s important that you’re doing what you can to make this vehicle as cost effective as possible. To do this, Trent Hamm, a contributor to The Simple Dollar, advises that you clean out or change your car’s air filter on a regular basis. This can greatly improve your gas mileage. Also, if you don’t have to go far for your job, you may want to consider riding a bike instead, which can save you a ton of money on a daily and long-term basis.
Get Rid Of “Phantom Energy”
For those who are looking to save money, you’re probably already pretty good about turning off the lights when you’re not using them. However, you may not be as aware of the “phantom energy” you might be using. According to Paula Plant, a contributor to The Balance Everyday, appliances that are plugged in but aren’t being used still use up a lot of energy. So to keep this from cranking up your electric bill each month, unplug any appliances you’re not using as soon as you’re done with them.
If you’re wanting a few simple ways to save yourself a lot of money, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you do just that.
