From swapping where you to shop to collecting up coupons, here's our round up of easy ways to ensure you're better off in 2024
If you hoped 2024 would be the year you finally got your finances sorted, but that lottery win hasn't quite happened yet, then don't worry – we've got you covered.
With the cost of living crisis still hitting families pretty hard, here's 12 ways to have more money in your pocket each month. And the best part is they're so easy to do, you won't have to scrimp to make simple savings!
1. Swap where you shop
One of the easiest ways to save money is by cutting back the cost of your weekly shop. But, rather than ditching crisps or packing in pizza, there's an easier way to get everything in your basket for a lot less.
And all you need to do is shop at Aldi.
The budget store was named as the cheapest supermarket for 2023. So by picking up your groceries, baby buys and more at Aldi, you can get more of what you love for less. Easy!
2. Love it or list it
Fallen out of love with some items in your wardrobe? Sell them on and make some money in the process! Second-hand fashion is big news at the moment as people look to save money and be more sustainable while doing so.
Check out sites like Vinted, where sellers can list for free, or for larger items you might find Facebook Marketplace helps you to shift unwanted furniture, bulky baby items or boxes of unwanted toys.
3. Stash the cash
Worried about overspending each month? Then perhaps the viral TikTok 'cash stuffing' trend could be one for you to try. The method involves drawing out your monthly salary in cash, which you then divide into different envelopes, each labelled with categories like 'weekly shop' or 'holiday'.
You can only spend what's in the envelope, and once it's gone, it's gone!
Top tip: if you shop at Aldi, you'll find the money in your weekly shop envelope goes a lot further!
4. Upgrade your gadgets
One great way to save some money is by making sure that your household items are as energy efficient as possible. Heated airers, air fryers, slow cookers and electric blankets are all popular right now and for good reason.
Using them uses less energy than the likes of tumble driers and ovens, so investing in some new tech is a simple way to reduce your monthly bills.
5. Look after the pennies
Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis is the man to know when it comes to saving serious cash. And his 1p saving hack is a really simple way of saving some money without even really noticing.
In just one year you'll pocket £670 which could go a long way towards treats for yourself or the family. And, to start saving all you need is 1p!
You can start at any time of year. On day one you save 1p, on day two it's 2p... and by day 365 it's £3.65. (Plus this year you'll save a bit more because it's a leap year so there's 366 days.)
If you started with 1p on 1 January and put £3.66 away on 31 December, you'd have a total of £670 saved.
6. Access all apps
Right now, there's loads of money saving apps around, which means you can use your phone to save while you shop.
From an app that gives you instant cashback to one that finds you a discount code before you check out, it really does pay to use them.
Use them to save cash without you having to lift a finger!
7. Check your benefits
Depending on your circ*mstances, there might be additional benefits you're entitled to that you're not already claiming. For example, if you're pregnant or have a baby under the age of one, you can get free dental care and prescriptions.
You could also be eligible for child benefit, a Sure Start Maternity Grant or other support. Find out more about benefits and entitlements here.
8. Split the cost
If there's a 'must-have' item you're after but it's a bit out of your price range, then consider whether you could share the items with a family member or friend to keep the costs down.
For example, if you're after a state-of-the-art travel stroller for your little one, but you're only planning to use it every now and again, then maybe a friend or relative who is also after a part-time solution could go halves with you.
9. Borrow, don't buy
Following on from the above tip, if you don't have a friend or relative to split the cost of expensive items with, then you could look at renting instead.
There's lots of companies that loan out kids items like travel cots and pushchairs. If you're off on holiday and don't want to buy new, you could borrow for a fraction of the cost of buying new.
10. Banking bonus
It's worth making sure that you're getting the best deal from your bank or savings account. If you're not, then consider making a switch. Lots of banks offer you a sign up bonus so you'll literally get free cash for joining.
Some have other incentives like shopping vouchers or free gifts when you join, so it does pay to be a new customer.
11. Find freebies
One easy way to save money is by not spending anything at all! And thankfully, there's some ways you can get some great freebies without paying a penny.
By signing up here, new parents can get a full pack of Aldi Mamia newborn nappies totally FREE. It's also worth checking out any loyalty cards or apps you have, as there's often ways you can get samples and freebies through them without paying a thing.
12. Save in school holidays
Loads of places have cottoned on to the fact that keeping kids entertained during the school holidays is pretty expensive. So now, lots of restaurants offer 'kids eat free' deals during school holidays, and many popular attractions have also been helping families to save by offering reduced or free tickets for kids during peak times.
And to reduce the cost of feeding your kids at home during the holidays, simply shop at Aldi. From the Super 6 offers on fruit and veg to Super Weekly Offers on meat, poultry and fish, there are bargains galore to be had.
Shop the full Aldi Mamia range instore or online.
Related stories
10 edible sensory play ideas for kids
CHAT: Savvy Savers
How to have an indoor winter picnic with the kids
