Unlock the Money-Saving Code: 10 Hacks That Can Change Your Life

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Saving money can be daunting, especially when you are living from paycheck to paycheck, but it doesn’t have to be, according to the real-life experiences of these internet users.

From shopping tips to stemming extravagance and denial of self from the lure of wants over needs, here are some of the best comments on easy ways to save money.

#1. When at the Supermarket, Pay Attention to the Bottom Shelf First

Unlike opinion threads, where you’ll often find the best ideas at the top, shopping from the bottom shelves tops the response list of easy breezy ways to save some money, according to one user.

As another self-described addicted shopper thinks, supermarkets push the more expensive brands into view, but the bottom shelves are often where the sweet deals are.

#2. Bulk Buying Saves Cost

Several people agree that bulk buying items you often use can help save costs. One user explained that products are usually overpriced when sold singly than when bought in bulk because you wouldn’t have to pay for the excessive packaging.

Another countered that buying in bulk is the manufacturer’s way of making you buy more and spend lavishly.

But if I use it regularly, say the sanitary products, foods and drinks, and everyday needs, would buying in bulk to save some extra money cost me a thing? I don’t think so.

#3. Fix Before Replacing

Your household items will, in time, break down, but fixing them before replacing them, many users suggested, helped them save some bucks.

One individual, however, sounded a warning that certain extremes might pose dangers that could make spending on replacement a better option. Another user claimed their grandmother wouldn’t let go of a 49-year-old microwave despite outlasting its useable life.

#4. Separate Wants from Needs

According to one user, identifying the difference between what you want and need can help you save money. Because an item is available on sale doesn’t mean you have to unseal your wallet.

The user further explained that pricing only sometimes dictates product quality and that your choice need doesn’t have to be the more expensive item.

#5. Choose Your Partner and Circle Wisely

Defining wisdom for many can be challenging to pinpoint, but one user thinks you must be able to afford wisdom in choosing life partners and friends. The user argues that your life partner and social circles’ money habits can make or mar your money-saving goals depending on their tastes.

Here is where being a lone wolf makes the most sense, no?

#6. Avoid Subscribed Expenses

Several people agreed that subscription expenses could be draining your pocket. One user explained that subscribed expenses include anything that makes you pay an ongoing cost after your first financial commitment.

Another user cautioned that not all subscriptions are bad, citing health insurance as an essential subscription in the case of an emergency. If you ask me for a word here, I’ll scream.’ discretion.’

Finally, one person noted that you can  hire someone to pay your bills to avoid wasting money on unwanted subscriptions.

#7. Reusable Before Disposable

According to several users, a checklist that prioritizes the reusable over the disposable is a money-saving grace. For example, a user claimed that paper bags, plastic bottles, batteries, newspapers, and magazines could serve other household purposes.

Another user explained that choosing reusable over disposable will save you money and help protect your environment from excessive waste.

#8. Cook Your Meal

Arguing that feeding takes a large chunk of most people’s income, one user suggested that cooking at home can help save food costs. Another user opined that choosing easy recipes instead of fancy recipes is the way to save on cooking ingredients.

One person added that potatoes and rice could be money-saving staples and, if paired with a personal green garden, can help keep some more dollars in your pocket.

#9. Save the Car for When You Need It

The cost of managing a car can dig holes in your purse quickly. One user advised that you drive when driving is unavoidable and treats gas cost as it has tripled in value. Another user suggests that driving at 55 mph can increase gas mileage.

If you must have a car, learn the tricks to how to never have a car payment again  and save thousands in the process.

#10. Track Your Spending

One user rightly opined that you couldn’t save if you can’t track your money. A regular review of expenses can help safeguard against reckless spending and help you to save more.

So while the idea of budgeting might not be the most exciting thing in the world, it is something that you need to do if you want to get ahead financially.

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