Five easy ways to save money this year

Saving money can prove difficult at times, but if you’re determined to try and save a little this year, then there are certain things you can do - and not do - to try and achieve this.

There are five changes that people can make to try and help them spend less money, according to experts at Rooster Insurance.

Don’t get swept up by sales

Although discounted prices in the January sales may be tempting, sales can “encourage us to spend money that we wouldn’t have had there not been a discount available,” says the insurance company.

“Before you make your next sales purchase, think about whether you really need that new jacket or coffee machine and think about the savings pot you could be topping up instead.”

To avoid temptation, you could mute notifications on your phone for shopping apps and limit the time you spend browsing online.

Cut down your fixed costs

Fixed costs are the non-negotiable bills and payments you need to make in order to live or work, but some of these costs can be astronomical.

However, taking a look at each of these fixed costs, and searching around to find the best deal, for example with car insurance, can help to save money.

Think about where you buy

It can be important to think about where you are buying from, as where you shop can make all the difference on how much you are spending.

“For example, petrol is typically more expensive at motorway service stations than it is at supermarkets or filling stations, so if you are going on a long road trip then make sure to fill your tank in advance,” explains Rooster insurance.

Opting for non-branded food when doing your grocery shopping is also a good way to try and reduce cost.

Take a packed lunch

If you’re still heading out to work, then packing lunch at home rather than buying a sandwich from the local supermarket can save a lot more than you think.

The average meal deal on the high street costs around £3.70 and a chain coffee shop meal deal can set you back around £5 to £7, which means you could be spending over £20 a week on your lunches.

Be environmentally and economically friendly

Adopting more environmentally friendly habits can not only help the planet, but it can help you to save a few pennies, too.

For example, switching off lights and plugs when you aren’t using them can help to reduce your energy consumption and your electric bill at the end of the month.

You could set a reminder on your phone every night reminding you to switch off all your appliances at the mains, if you regularly forget to switch things off.

You could also opt to purchase secondhand clothes, as opposed to the fast fashion industry, as not only is it socially-conscious and eco-friendly, but some charity shops and re-selling apps can prove cheaper.