Can you turn saving money into a fun game? It might not seem like it, but saving money can be fun. You can set up little competitions with yourself to see how much you can save this month compared with last month, to see how much you can trim expenses. You can figure out how to get by with less while using your creativity and problem-solving skills. To do all that and have a bit of fun in the process, try these seven amusing tricks for saving money.
Tip #1: Gather Extra Packets at Dining Establishments
The next time you visit a café, feel free to take extra packets of ketchup, sugar, salt, and pepper. You never know when you might need them! Eventually, you may accumulate enough sugar for your coffee that you don’t need to buy it from the store anymore.
Tip #2: Take Pictures of Your Refrigerator
Post grocery shopping, snap a picture of your fridge stocked with groceries. When it’s time to go shopping again, use the photo as a reference to remind you of what you have on hand. This will help you steer clear of purchasing superfluous items and will aid you in saving both time and money.
Tip #3: Use Coupons on Dates
When going on a date, particularly a relaxed get-together, think about using restaurant coupons or dining vouchers. You can have a delightful dinner and still save a few bucks.
Tip #4: Get Beauty Services for Free
Search for cosmetology schools nearby that are in need of models for their students to practice on. You can frequently have your hair, makeup, or nails done at no cost or for a minimal fee and assist in the training of future cosmetologists.
Tip #5: Enjoy Free Beverages
Think about requesting complimentary drinks instead of buying coffee or tea. Numerous establishments offer water at no cost, and you can savor that with any number of flavor enhancers—your own, or some that are often found in debates and discussions—without ever handing over any cash.
Tip #6: Share Large Drinks
Should you find yourself unable to complete a copious amount of liquid, you might think about asking a companion to assist you in consuming the remainder. That’s what I do when I get a large drink. Instead of downing the sugary contents by myself, I share the calories with my friend.
Tip #7: Use Your Rewards Card Wisely
If you visit establishments such as Starbucks, be certain to use your rewards card. After a set number of transactions, you can net complimentary beverages and assorted incentives, rendering your caffeine jones a mite more budget-friendly.
These ridiculous ways to save money can actually put a bit of fun into your financial life. If you look at them with a change of perspective—as you might look at any good savings tip—you can see that they are harmless, if silly, suggestions that will, if followed, help you save a bit of cash here and there.
