(BPT) - Whether you're single or have a family, budgeting for household expenses can be challenging. Balancing necessary expenses like rent or a mortgage payment, groceries, utilities and health care costs with discretionary spending like shopping for clothing, eating at restaurants and going to the movies can seem almost impossible.
However, with just a few adjustments to your spending habits, you can simplify your budget. These five simple tips can help you keep your household expenses in check so you can save money and have some cash left over for fun experiences.
1. Meal prep and batch cook to reduce grocery waste
Prepping meals for the week is a great way to spend less money. When you prepare meals at home, you won't have a reason to spend money on food at the cafeteria, coffee shop or a restaurant. Plus, cooking multiple meals ahead of time can help you reduce grocery food waste!
Batch cooking - cooking a lot of food for multiple meals ahead of time - allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, which can cost less than buying food items one at a time or in smaller quantities. Plus, not only are you saving money, but meal prepping on the weekend means you are also spending less time cooking during the week.
2. Bundle internet and streaming services
Paying for internet and subscription streaming services individually can quickly add up. Instead of deciding which subscriptions to keep or cancel, consider looking for bundles. Check with your internet or phone provider to see if they offer discounts or bundles for multiple services and streaming platforms.
3. Enroll in low-cost, affordable vision insurance coverage
Taking care of your vision can be costly. However, don't let the cost keep you from taking care of your sight. You can enroll in an individual vision plan to help reduce vision-related expenses and stay on top of eye health.
A great vision insurance option that can help you save money without compromising your well-being is a VSP® Individual Vision Plan. When you enroll in a low-cost VSP vision plan, you can easily manage exams, glasses and contacts for everyone in the family - even when employer insurance isn't available.
There are several benefits to purchasing an individual vision plan through VSP. Unlike other vision coverage options, you can purchase a customizable vision insurance plan at any time. No need to wait for open enrollment or deal with waiting periods. VSP Individual Vision Plans offer same-day use of benefits once you are enrolled; use your plan the same day you buy it!
You can also save an average of $350 annually, which includes 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Plus, VSP members have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras. Compare vision plans and find the best fit for you.
4. Shop secondhand or hold clothing swaps
Shopping for clothing can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. Instead of hitting your local department store, find thrift and consignment stores in your area. By buying gently used clothing, you can pay a fraction of the cost of a new item while refreshing your closet. Plus, you'll be doing your part to keep clothing out of the landfill.
Another option is to get new-to-you outfits by organizing clothing swaps with friends. Ask everyone to gather their unwanted clothes and set a day, time and location to hold the swap. Not only will you get free clothing, but you can also spend time with friends.
5. Choose energy-saving home upgrades
If your electric bill is one of your highest utility expenses, consider upgrading your home appliances with energy-saving models. When shopping for a new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, opt for an Energy Star certified model. By choosing an Energy Star appliance, you can save 10-50% compared to conventional models, including older models like the one you may own.
You don't have to give up the things you love to stay on top of your budget. Try these five easy money-saving tips and see how far your budget can stretch.