Ten Easy Ways To Save Money

So you want to save a bit of money? With lockdown and the impending issues we face with the corona-conomy we get you. Thankfully there are lots of easy ways you can save money.

Here we list our top ten easy money-saving tricks.

1. Price Comparison Websites

Price comparison websites are an excellent tool for comparing the price of goods and services. They help you choose the best deal when comparing your energy, broadband, or insurance.

Using a service like this is a super quick and easy way to make sure you’re always getting the best offers. Less money spent on bills = more money in your pocket! 

If you haven’t already checked out the “Save” tab on the Emma app then do so right away. We make switching your bills a breeze, letting you know how much money you could be saving in a matter of minutes!

2. Fall In Love With Loyalty Cards (Again)

Loyalty cards have been around for years, and that’s precisely why we’re adding them to our top 10 list. We bet you’ve signed up to hundreds of loyalty schemes in the past, but are you getting the most out of them? 

Spend 20 mins reminding yourself of the perks each loyalty card holds. Next time you reach the till you’ll be ready to claim your rightful rewards! 

3. Cancel Unwanted Subscriptions

Whether it’s a gym membership, streaming services, or even a Graze box it’s a good idea to review your monthly subscriptions. According to Citizens Advice, UK consumers spend an average of £640 a year on unwanted subscriptions. Don’t let yourself be one of those people! 

If you’re looking for a quick way to cut back, reviewing your subscriptions could be a good way to start. If you need a helping hand, open the Emma app, and head to the recurring payments section.

We’ll list all your recurring payments in one place, and highlight any upcoming bills that need to be paid.

4. Get A Better Mobile Phone Deal

Do you know when your mobile phone contract is ending? If not, make a note in your calendar, and make sure you set some time aside to agree a better deal with your provider.

If you haven’t switched phone deals, or at least haggled for a better deal in the last few years, chances are you’re overpaying! Negotiating a better price may not feel like an easy thing to do, but it’s a sure-fire way to save some money.

5. Opt For Own Brand

It’s tempting to buy fancy branded goods when you’re browsing the shopping aisles. But, ask yourself whether they’re worth the extra cost. Items like salt, vinegar, and porridge rarely taste any different whether they’re supermarket owned or not.

Experiment by switching to supermarket own – testing if you can taste the difference. After a while, you should notice a nice reduction in the cost of your grocery bill! 

6. Make Your Own

We appreciate this tip doesn’t work for everything (make your own…car?) but embracing the MYO mentality can be a great way to save some money. We’re talking about making your own lunches, takeaways, coffees, and even juices.

A small task that can motivate you to MYO? Add up the cost of your daily Starbucks, over a year’s period. Use this figure to then decide whether you’re better off spending the money elsewhere. 

7. Look Out For Deals

Keeping an eye out for the latest deals can be an easy way to save money. Sign up for your favourite brand’s newsletters to hear about any special offers they may have. Or, keep a beady eye for special discounts when you’re roaming the aisles. (see also: follow the shop assistant while they yellow sticker the food items).

If you’re shopping for big-ticket items always remember this one point… If something costs £200 and it’s on sale for £150, you did not save £50, you spent £150. Don’t always let the idea of a bargain draw you into unnecessary spending.

8. Make The Most Of Restaurant Offers

If like us you’re a big fan of eating out then restaurant offers can be a great way to reduce your spending. Follow brands on Instagram for their latest deals, or use websites like Bookatable.  Restaurants will often offer discounted menus for dining during off-peak times – a great way to experience pricey restaurants, for less.

BYOB (bring your own beer) is another excellent way to cut the cost of your bill. Swing by Sainsbury’s or bring alcohol you already own for a cheaper way to drink with your meal.

9. Take A Staycation

Whilst you may be dreaming of a two week holiday on an exotic beach, in reality, a staycation might be more suitable. Save money on expensive flights and travel to somewhere in the UK instead.

Airbnb has a new section on their site called “nearby getaways” and we’re loving the options available! 

10. Download a Money Management App

We may be a little bit biased, but this is our favourite money-saving tip. Download a Money Management app (preferably Emma!) and get detailed insights into how you’re spending your money.

Budgeting is the key to successful money management, and with the Emma app, you’ll know exactly where your money is going each month!

If you want to download the Emma app then click through here – we would be thrilled to have you! Or alternatively, find out more info about the app by reading “How To Use Emma – Your First 10 Days With Emma”.

Summary:

There are lots of easy ways to save money. Explore each of these money saving tips and find out which ones work best for you. You could find yourself saving huge amounts of money that you can then put toward saving, investing, or even your retirement fund.