Just because you’re saving doesn’t mean you have to stop socialising or become boring. There are plenty of ways you can save money without sacrificing either the every day essentials, or the fun things in life!
 
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
  • Save $1,040 per year by taking a coffee from home and saving your $4 coffee for the weekends only, rather than everyday (saving $20 per week)
  • Save $260 per year by getting together with flatmates or friends to buy grocery items in bulk. Basics like rice, sugar and toilet paper can be divided easily, and can help you save over time (saving $5 per week)
  • Save up to $180 per year by cutting back on the extras at the hairdresser, like the blow dry or treatment, or switch to a cheaper hairdresser. You could also colour your hair at home! (saving $20 per visit every six weeks)
  • Save $60 per year by forward planning. Certain expenses come around annually, like birthdays, Easter and Christmas. Keep an eye out for potential birthday gifts during sales or buy seasonal decorations when they are significantly reduced after the holiday (saving $5 per month on gifts and decorations)
  • Save $25 by switching a lunch at a pub for a BYO picnic, and bring your own music and games for a fun day out (saving $35 on a pub meal versus spending $10 supermarket food)
  • Save $23 by watching a movie at home. Going out regularly to see a movie with your friends can set you back a pretty penny. Switch a couple of movie nights in the year to a night watching a free-to-air movies at your place, and suggest your friends bring a snack each. You could also share a subscription to a streaming service with your housemates (saving $18 on a movie ticket, and $10 on movie bar food versus $5 from the supermarket)
  • Save from $10 by going to free gigs! Go to a free gig instead of a paid one. You may just discover an up and coming new band at your local pub! (saving $10 or more on a gig cover charge)
Start small by switching one expense for a cheaper one. After a short while, you may find you don’t miss that little extra anymore, and you’ll certainly enjoy having more savings in your account!