As the cost of raising children continues to steadily climb, it is natural that parents are forced to become more and more frugal. Families are clipping coupons to save money on groceries or looking for online promo codes at websites such as RetailMeNot or Discountrue.com to get quality items from Overstock and other popular shops on a budget. Shopping for clothes on the clearance racks is also a sign of being well versed in the art of saving money. However, the hardest part for many families is the overhaul to their lifestyle that comes along with cutting back.
Thanks to these frugal tips for families, you can maintain a semblance of your normal lifestyle, without being forced to make drastic changes!
1. Smart Grocery Shopping
When you head out to the grocery store, make a list and stick to it. The easiest way to overspend is to head to the shop without a specific plan in mind. That’s how we end up impulse buying, forgetting important items and being forced to go back to the store several times throughout the week. Not only do you eventually spend more time and money at the grocery store than originally intended, but you also cause additional wear and tear on your automobile, plus your gas prices steadily rise.
2. Take “Staycations”
There is no need to throw all of your discretionary income out the window on one huge vacation to Disneyland or Six Flags. Take a closer look at the area in which you live and plan a staycation! There are tons of fun events that are happening nearby, if you take the time to do your homework. All you need to do is take a few days off from work during a period when the children have a few days off from school. As an added bonus, you no longer have to shepherd a group of cranky children through a long plane ride or car trip!
3. Shop At Thrift Stores
While society might look down on those who shop at thrift stores, they provide great values, especially on items that your children will be going through rather quickly anyways. Instead of buying new name brand sneakers every time they need a new pair, learn to rely on the thrift store.
4. Comparison Shop
Cable, Internet, cell phones, all of these creature comforts have become a part of our lives. In order to maintain the lifestyle, you’ve become accustomed to without breaking the bank, be sure to shop around and collect all of the local rates. From there, you are in a much better position to negotiate prices with companies in your region!
5. Save Energy
All it takes is a little bit of energy consciousness to help you save money. Don’t leave lights and televisions on in rooms where you are not present. Keep shower and bath times from becoming too excessive. While some might balk at these regulations, showing them the difference in your utility bills just might make them into believers!
Bob being a Light Saver at nursery.
Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post.
