20 Simple Money Saving Ideas


  • If there's a book you want to read, check it out from your local library. Even if your local branch doesn't have a copy, they can order it for you through the inter-library loan system. Many libraries will also purchase newly released books that are specifically requested by their patrons.

  • When driving, don't speed! Traffic tickets are expensive, and will increase your insurance rates.

  • Don't equate money with love. Give your children more time with you, not more things from you.

  • Look around for bartering opportunities. Hair-cuts, baby-sitting, cooking, errands, yard work, etc. The possibilities are endless. Start brainstorming!

  • Sell clothes you're finished with at a consignment store. You'll get a better rate of return than at a yard sale.

  • Avoid Dry Clean Only items.

  • If you want to eat out at an expensive restaurant for a special treat, go for lunch rather than dinner. The menu is often the same, but prices are often half.

  • Check for free concerts, plays and other live entertainment at local parks.

  • Get free video rentals at the library.

  • Plan menus ahead of time. Base your menus on the sale items at your grocery store, and always shop exclusively from a list.

  • Bring snacks, lunches and beverages from home. Most people spend at least $5 per weekday on food related items at work (lunch, pop, coffee, snacks, etc.), so bringing these items from home could easily save you over $1,000 per year!

  • At mealtimes, serve each person one glass of milk or juice. Then any additional servings can be plain water. If you really want to save money, drink water only. Make sure your children are getting enough dairy products in other forms, though, if you choose this option.

  • When dining out, drink water only. Ask for a lemon or lime wedge if you want it to seem special. Drinks can easily add an extra $10 to a meal total, which for many families could mean the difference between staying home again or having a fun outting to a nice restaurant now and then.

    For further tips for living within your means, go to: A Frugal, Simple Life


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    The copyright of the article 20 Simple Money Saving Ideas in Debt-Free Family is owned by Deborah Taylor-Hough. Permission to republish 20 Simple Money Saving Ideas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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