Smooth Saving: Easy Tips for Saving Money

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By Rachel Derry
Staff Writer LIFamilies

Let's face it; times are tough, especially on our wallets. It seems that no matter how much you try to save, at the end of the month your bank account is right where it started. Maybe it's time to try a couple new tricks to save a dollar or two. If cutting down and not going out as much isn't quite adding up like you imagined it should, maybe it wasn't your social habits draining all of your funds, in the first place. Here are a couple quick money saving tricks that will hopefully really add up in the long run.

Be a bag lady/gentleman. When you head off to the store, make sure to use reusable plastic/canvas shopping bags. Most stores now have a plastic bag fee, or savings, of about 10 cents a bag. If you use your own bags a couple times a week, it can really add up after a year.

Don't dial 411. We have all gotten stuck in a jam where we can't find the location we're supposed to be at, or we need to find a location to head to in general. Calling 411 in a pinch, however, is costing you $1.99 every time you use it. Instead, if you don't have internet on your cell phone (trying to save money, of course) text Google, instead, at 466453 for free. If the answer can't be found by Google, it can't be found anywhere.

Always shop ahead. If you buy your kitchen essentials as the need arises there are going to be many trips to the closet market or deli to pick up a forgotten odd or end. These quick trips can really add up because you are paying a premium price for the product. Shop ahead and stock up in bulk or discount grocery stores. This will save you gas, time, and money!

Cancel your cell phone insurance. Sure, there was the odd time that you left your phone on top of your car when you loaded your groceries (and then drove off) or you lost it as you were climbing off the boat. You pay at least $5 extra a month, though, just in case such a mishap happens. On top of that, you then need to put out a $50 deposit to get the new phone that you pay $5 a month towards. Save your month. If you end up needing a new one, chances are good you will find a cheaper one used online.

Fight the gas war! If, like me, you have been thinking about taking up the Amish lifestyle, but just aren't sure where you will keep the horses, try fighting the pump instead. Before you head around the corner to get gas, go online and look up the prices. Websites like gasbuddy.com and billshrink.com will tell you were the cheapest gas is in the area around you. Gasbuddy.com even has an application for your Smartphone that will tell you where the gas is in comparison to your car.

Long Island Money & Careers Articles > Smooth Saving: Easy Tips for Saving Money