There is no shortage of advice out there about how to cut expenses to save more – and much of it is well-taken. But if you’re tired of scrimping, it can be just as important to know how to make the most of the money you have. From thrifty fun-seekers, here are ten great ways to do just that:
- Splurge on lunch instead of dinner – Eating out is fun, but prices are typically more expensive at dinner time. Stay within budget by enjoying the same delicious food at your favorite restaurants during lunch hour.
- Use credit card rewards points – Assuming you pay off your credit card debt in full each month, use a card that offers rewards points. Use those points to pay for flights, hotels and things you might not be able to afford otherwise.
- Buy pre-owned designer goods – Be expensively dressed while staying within budget. Sites like Thredup.com for women and Farferch.com for men offer gently used designer clothing, handbags and more at a fraction of their original cost.
- Shop out of season – Mark your calendar to remember end-of-season clearance times, and make it a point to buy swimwear and sandals just as school starts and winter gear in early spring.
- Try a beauty school – Have your hair cut, colored and styled at a local beauty school, where students are closely supervised and a basic haircut can cost a quarter of salon prices.
- Plan at-home date nights – These days, the cost of a movie out and snacks can be prohibitive. Pop some popcorn, chill the sodas, and choose from hundreds of great streaming movies on TV. (Alternatively, check local movie houses for discount nights and move your date night accordingly.)
- Look for free entertainment – Lyrics to an old song said, “The best things in life are free,” and most museums, libraries and other local venues regularly schedule free or low-cost events. Search online for free events in your city, and save money while expanding your horizons.
