10 Ways to Save on Everyday Purchases

Here’s how to save money on the things you need in life so you can spend your money on the things you want.

Author:: Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell
Publish date:: Mar 24, 2012 6:00 AM EDT

Gas, utilities, clothing and food are all rising in price, making it increasingly harder to save up for non-necessities. Luckily, there are many ways to save on the things we need in life so we can have extra money for the things we want. Here are 10 great money-saving tips from several savings and financial pros. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: katerha

Gas, utilities, clothing and food are all rising in price, making it increasingly harder to save up for non-necessities. Luckily, there are many ways to save on the things we need in life so we can have extra money for the things we want. Here are 10 great money-saving tips from several savings and financial pros. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: katerha

This might seem like a no-brainer, but many people don’t actually clip coupons, or they see coupons but then use them to buy things they don’t really need. It’s best to clip coupons only for the things you need and to use them with in-store sales and actually track what you’re saving. Lisa Reynolds at Redplum.com says the average family can save up to $1,000 a year just by spending 20 minutes clipping coupons. Reynolds also offers this tip about coupon-clipping and meal planning: “If you find a fantastic coupon, don’t dismiss it simply because the item is not usually on your list,” she says. “Planning your meals at the same time as reviewing coupon offers and store circulars lets you take advantage of really great deals and try new recipes. Many savvy cooks create meal plans based on what the stores advertise that week.” Photo Credit: sdc2027

When it comes to buying wholesome foods for your family, “Stock up on fruits and veggies in season,” says Melissa Garcia, a savings expert with couponqueen.com. “Cut them up and freeze them at their peak so you’re not forced to pay those off-season prices and you know the quality is good.” Photo Credit: CJ Anderson

Just because you’re trying to save doesn’t mean you cannot ever dine out – just do it less often and do it smarter, suggests Reynolds. “Countless chain establishments have proven the old adage of no free lunch or dinner wrong, especially if you have kids. Full-service chain restaurants continue to offer some pretty sweet deals in the form of kids-eat-free promotions,” Reynolds says. “You can also try cutting down on heading out to your favorite restaurant every week, or only try hitting up your local spots for which you only have a coupon for.” Paul Vazquez, a savings expert at keycode.com, advises people to pack their lunch rather than buying it daily. “With some planning, you can save big on daily lunches by planning the lunch week in advance,” Vazquez says. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Nedo Homawoo

You can find some nice clothes at consignments shops for kids and adults. “Oftentimes there are great, unique finds at your local consignment shop, including some of the top brands, at extremely affordable prices,” says Reynolds, who recommends using the site magicyellow.com to find a consignment shop near you. Photo Credit: The Living Room Kenmore

There are other ways to save on gas other than carpooling and putting your child on the bus or walking to school with them. This writer saves by using the gas stations that give discounts on certain days or that gives discounts for using a Wal-Mart gift or credit card. Of course, if you do use a credit card, make sure to pay it off as the bill arrives. Garcia, our expert at couponqueen.com also recommends downloading the Murphy Oil app, which will tell you the cheapest gas in your area. Photo Credit: taylor.a

Garcia also says you can save by making your own cleaners out of other things you have around your house. “White vinegar can be used as a glass cleaner and deodorizer for the laundry and a fabric softener, among other things,” Garcia says. “You can even make your own foaming hand soap, baby wipes and more.” Photo Credit: Jos Dielis

Consider using a change jar to save up for special purchases or outings. Bille Sharp, author of the book Lemons and Lavender: The Eco Guide to Better Homekeeping, concurs that change jars are a good idea. “When it’s full, you can put the money into your savings account,” Sharp says. Photo Credit: Ben+Sam

If you need to withdraw cash, don’t spend your hard-earned money on unnecessary ATM fees. “Only withdraw from machines approved by your bank,” says Sharp. Photo Credit: redspotted

Vazquez also says that people can save on many things using the old barter system that many people in small towns still use. If you need a babysitter, trade a neighbor or family member for the service. Negotiating with companies for various services can also help you save money. “Negotiating can even work with retailers, especially if you can point to offers from their competitors,” says Vazquez. Photo Credit: TheeErin

Wait! If you haven't already, now is a great time to follow us on Twitter. You'll get all of our most important stories, right as they publish. Follow us: twitter.com/mainstr Photo Credit: clevercupcakes

Save Now, Spend Later

Gas, utilities, clothing and food are all rising in price, making it increasingly harder to save up for non-necessities. Luckily, there are many ways to save on the things we need in life so we can have extra money for the things we want. Here are 10 great money-saving tips from several savings and financial pros. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: katerha