Budgeting & Bargain Hunting

Over the years we have found that living on a budget is much harder than it looks. If you want to try these tips, you must have dedication and motivation. Instead of avoiding going out in fear of over-spending, there are several ways you can successfully control your spending, and have fun too! Good luck :)

• Write a shopping list
• If you can't stick to the list, allow yourself 1 luxury item per shop (this must be under £5)
• Do online shopping - check your cart for what you really need instead of what you want
• Go out with a limited amount of cash, leaving your card at home so you can't overspend
• Use your vouchers/clubcards/cashback apps/rewards
• Limit how much you go out purely to shop. Set a day for shopping and only buy small items the rest of the week if you really have to
• Charity shops are great for saving money BUT only buy what you really need or snatch bargains for things you have always wanted
• Home-making gifts adds a personal touch (and is way cheaper)
• Look for sales when buying presents BUT don't be drawn in by unnecessary or extra items 
• Put all small change into a saving pot and if you fancy a treat, use this 
• Set up a savings account. Even a small amount added weekly will soon add up
• Ask around - you'd be surprised at how helpful people can be, and how many treasures you can find. Furniture is a biggie here - when moving out, all our furniture was sourced from family
• Stay away from credit cards as much as possible - it's easy to get into debt quickly
• Save on energy - switch off appliances and lights
• Recycle your water - use the washing up water on your garden plants (but make sure to use eco-friendly liquid if doing this frequently, some brands can damage wildlife and pollute water, or be harmful to aquatic life)
• Keep an eye out for bargain offers such as affordable days out. Kids passes are useful
• Get crafty - use the recycling to make papier mache, cardboard creations and much more
• Buying clothes out of season or just at the end of a season can be cheaper
• Try to make home made cleaning products, such as newspaper to wipe windows, lemon juice for stains and vinegar to disinfect