Stay in for dinner and make bagged lunches
Eating in restaurants has increased by about 2 to 3 percent each year, Yahoo Finance reports. A 2015 survey showed that the average American spent $1,043 a year on eating out for lunch, USA Today reported in November 2015. Add dinners and drinks and that adds up to a pretty penny. Bringing a bagged lunch to work and eating in on the weekends can save you a lot of cash.
Use money-saving and money-managing apps
There are a number of apps that you can utilize to help you save money. One such app is Mint, which is best for “beginner budgeters", “mobile users” and “hands-off budgeters,” according to NerdWallet. The app is free and provides bill tracking, automatic account syncing and the offering of a free credit score. Other apps that manage your finances include Mvelopes and Clarity Money, Forbes reported in June.
Set limits for online shopping
If you have a habit of online shopping, you probably have a few websites you visit frequently. While it is more convenient for your purchases if you make an account at those websites, it is more convenient for your wallet if you don’t, according to NerdWallet. If you have to enter your credit card number and your shipping address each time to purchase, you’ll be less tempted to purchase because it won’t be as easy. You’ll also have more time to think over your more frivolous purchases.
Consider your transportation options
Another way to save money is to engage in thrifty modes of transportation, Forbesreported last year. The biggest money-saver is walking, but for situations when that isn’t possible there are other ways to save money on your way from point A to point B. Taking public transportation such as the subway or the bus is an easy option if it is available to you. If you live in an area where you need to drive, Forbes suggests sharing a car or carpooling.
Getting rich isn’t easy, but if you do it little by little through money-saving habits, you’ll notice a lot more cash in your pocket by the end of 2018. Don’t be afraid to make that your New Year’s resolution.
This article originally published on Newsweek.com by Zola Ray