One of the challenges faced in people's finances is figuring out how to save, and the best answer to this is to cut down on unnecessary expenses.
Money saved should always be put away in a savings account or, better yet, in an emergency fund. If you don't have one, you should work on opening one as soon as possible.
Experts advise you on how to cut expenses by unplugging appliances when you are not using them, losing that gym membership, etc., but that is not all. Here are the five unnecessary costs you should get rid of.
Internet Video Streaming
Watching your favorite game, your favorite television shows, or even streaming that new movie are all fun activities, but they could be draining your wallet. Services such as Netflix are luxuries that you can do without. Cutting them off would mean having more money to put into your savings account.
Letting go is hard, but you can search the Internet for free trials of streaming accounts such as Hulu. Many networks have also invented apps where you can watch the latest episode on your smartphone or tablet.
Spas and Beauty Salons
Yes, you need a haircut occasionally, but you don't have to pay a hefty price to get one. You might have to consider going to a cheaper hairdresser. Check out beauty schools and ask any of the students to give you a hairdo. Because they are students, their services come at a lower price or for free.
However scary the idea of having a hairdo from an inexperienced person is, they are always monitored closely. They come in to show their students techniques and how to give proper cuts, so there is no need to worry. You do not need to go to a salon if you want to color or dye your hair. You can do it at home. Watch YouTube for tutorials about it and which chemicals you can buy.
Drinking and Smoking
Who doesn't know how overdrinking and smoking are both unhealthy for your body? If you drink four drinks daily, how much are you spending monthly? The same goes for smoking. That money can be channeled into your savings account, and oh, your lungs will thank you, too.
Having Too Much Credit Card Debt
Are you fond of putting most of your expenses on your credit card? Watching movies, shopping, and eating out should never be on your credit card. Also, if you do not have money to pay your credit card at the end of the month, avoid going into debt to avoid extra charges. Always stay on a budget and try as much as possible to avoid going into more debt.
Also Read: Discover the Secret to Maintaining Financial Discipline
Dining Out
Cooking your food is much cheaper than eating out. For instance, a plate of food can cost about $10, but $10 is actually enough to buy enough food at the grocery store to last you the whole week. Eating out occasionally is not bad; be sure not to make it a habit, though, and your wallet will thank you.
Conclusion
It's not going to be easy, but it's still doable. If you have been dining out every day, cut down to three times a week, and so on. Gradually, you will get used to it. Getting rid of these unnecessary expenses will help you save that extra dollar. Click here for more advice on financial planning.
