Have you ever asked yourself if you really need to spend money on something? Spending guilt is common after you’ve made a purchase that you regret and wish you could get your money back. Saving money can only be achieved by spending less. The more you look for ways to save, the more you’ll realize that you don’t really need to purchase certain things that aren’t a necessity or don’t contribute to your long-term happiness.
Here are 4 things you don’t have to spend money on so you can keep more money in your pocket.
1. Snacks at the Gas Station
Purchasing a little snack or cup of coffee every once and a while may not hurt when you stop by the gas station, but doing it every day or even weekly can start to burn a hole in your pocket.
The other day I needed to run to the gas station after a group workout class I had at the gym. While I was pumping my gas, I got a random craving for something sweet and considered running into the gas station to ‘reward myself’ with some candy. I actually did go in and purchase candy that day.
But this week, when I realized I had to get gas after my workout class, I simply paid at the pump and went home instead of choosing to buy something. Paying at the pump with your debit or credit card is easy and can help you avoid the temptation of making an unnecessary purchase. You can also pick up nonperishable snacks in bulk and store them in your car for whenever you get a craving.
2. Name Brand Products
I understand that some name brand products are high-quality, but for the most part, many generic items will get the job done just fine as well. I have practically no brand loyalty when it comes to purchasing clothes for myself and my son, supplies for my household, etc. unless I see a clear distinction between the name brand and the non-brand product.
Some generic items I am happy to buy over name brands include: aluminum foil, spices and seasonings, cereal, and cleaning products just to name a few. It saves me quite a bit of money and nobody ever notices the difference.
3. Individually Packed Foods and Snacks
Purchasing several individually packed foods and snacks is almost always pricier than just purchasing them in bulk or in a small pack. Consider energy bars. They might cost anywhere from $1.50 to $3.00 each in a vending machine depending on the brand. That’s only for one bar. You’d do much better purchasing a package with 6-10 bars so you can get more for your money.
When it comes to actual food, purchasing fresh produce and meats are probably the only few things you should consider buying individually if you are trying to prepare a specific dish.
4. Basic Car Repairs and Maintenance
What type of basic car repairs can you do on your own? If you’ve considered changing your own oil, it’s not that hard. You can also check the pressure for your tires with a pressure gauge and pump air into them on your own instead of paying someone to do it as well.
If you’re still questioning your abilities, check out this post to see all others services you can provide for your car on your own.
5. Restaurant Food
Dining out often is a hard habit to break. But when you do, your wallet will thank you for it. You can commit to earning out less by making specific grocery lists to include all your favorite foods and cooking at home more. Food prep is a must if you want to avoid dining out often.
If you do dine out every now and then but still want to save money, you can utilize restaurant coupons, happy hour deals, Groupons, and even kids eat free specials if you are going out with the whole family.
How often do you spend money on some of these things? What would you add to the list?
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