Top 20 ways for parents to save cash

With many UK families being hit by budget cuts, rising fuel costs and other financial pressures, more and more people are becoming 'money saving super savvy’ and hunting for the best deals and bargains available.

 

1. Shop around. Check out money saving websites, comparison sites and forums to find the best price before you buy. A free online portal that deals with discount codes and coupons Plus Voucher Code is a great place where you can find the best deals for you and your family. There are great deals available, from holiday to insurance.
2. Budget, budget, budget. It may seem obvious, but a lot of people don’t assess their expenditures. Look at your income and expenditure and create a budget. You’ll be far less likely to spend more than you can afford if you have a clear idea in your mind of what your budget is.
3. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Shop on second hand auction sites like eBay. Remember to save the packaging from new items to give you better second hand resale value.
4. Before you buy…always ask yourself “Do I really need this?”. Don’t impulse buy…give yourself a few days (or weeks if it’s a big purchase) to think about whether you really want it.
5. Food glorious food. Plan your family meals for the week, so you don’t end up throwing away out of date food. Try reusing leftovers for the next night. It you’re inventive, the kids won’t know the difference.
6. Trolley dash. Do your grocery shopping online. You will be less tempted to buy more than you need. If you have to shop in store, do up a shopping list beforehand and stick to it. Try and leave the kids at home when shopping, or else you’ll find a lot more in the trolley than you planned.
7. Buy in bulk. Stock up on offers, deals and bargains or items you use regularly. If you have a baby, keep an eye out for special baby events at supermarkets. You’ll find nappies and wipes are heavily discounted when you buy in bulk.
8. Never pay full price. Before you buy, always look for a relevant voucher or discount code online, and use cashback sites too. Look out for coupons from magazines and newspapers.
9. Name drop. Try a few value brands for some items, like nappies, wipes, school uniforms, and you could save yourself a lot of money.
10. Savvy Saver. Open a savings account and set up a standing order so there is money going into it every month. Saving a little amount every week will add up in no time.
11. Credit crunch. Avoid using credit cards. If you have to, pay them off as quickly as possible to avoid costly interest. Or try using a debit visa card, so won’t spend more than you can afford to pay back.
12. Know your worth. Keep a close eye on your finances so you have control of your funds. You’ll be less likely to incur bank charges if you keep an eye on things. Internet banking is a brilliant way to check finances, as it’s really quick and convenient.
13. Life lessons. Teach your children the value of money by making them work for pocket money. Give them household chores to earn their money. Learn to say no sometimes, it’s a valuable life lesson for them.
14. 999. Set aside fund for an emergency situation. You never know when you could have a burst pipe or a problem with your car, so it’s always good to have something in reserve. Then you don’t need to reply on credit arrangements which can end up being very costly.
15. Forget the Joneses! Don’t feel under pressure to have what the neighbours or your friends have…it really doesn’t matter. Teach your children they don’t need to have everything their classmates have.
16. Buyer Beware. Don’t spend a lot of money on expensive toys, especially ones that won’t last. Kid’s are great using their imagination to entertain themselves – and it’s completely free!
17. Get more from your loyalty. Lots of stores, cafes, cinemas, supermarkets and restaurants now have loyalty cards, so make sure you collect your points and make the most of them. Use your supermarket loyalty points against family days out instead of against your shopping – you get up to four times the value.
18. Ruffle up a few feathers. Many UK families are now keeping chickens! They can lay up to 320 eggs a year – which is around one box of eggs a week. While there will be an initial cost, you’ll save in the long run.
19. Supply and demand. Contact your broadband/TV/energy/insurance suppliers and tell them you’re thinking of leaving. They will offer you a better deal. Check your energy and utility bills and make sure to request any overpayments.
20. Use local services. Make the most of public services like libraries, parks and leisure centres. If your child is a keen reader, you could save a small fortune by availing of the library and the park is a great way to spend a family day out without spending a penny.