1. Don’t be afraid of ‘Off-brand’

My mom would always tell me, “It’s all made in the same factory anyway”. You can save some bucks if you opt for the off-brand or store-brand. Some things I do only buy in a particular brand, but I make decisions about what I actually really want to be a particular brand and then be open-minded about everything else. I’m not a beauty-guru so I don’t have a problem buying my makeup and concealer (etc.) from Kroger or a drugstore. I do, however, invest in good shampoo and conditioner. I buy the cheapest espresso I can find, but I only buy certain brands of pens/pencils. It’s all about balancing.

2. Open an Ibotta account

With this little snazzy app you get money back on things you buy every day! Use the code: hptjohe for $10 added to your account when you sign up! Before you go to the store, check the listings of coupons and items and add them to your list. When you get back from the store, scan your receipt and see the money start rolling in. I’m super happy with it. I like to save the money for my travel funds.

3. Coupons don’t mean buy more

Don’t fall victim to thinking if you’re saving money on something that you should buy something else just for the heck of it and because you have a lil extra dough now. It’ll cancel out and you won’t have saved any money. Coupon smartly!

4. Refunds are not ‘fluff money’

If you get a refund from a school loan or your taxes, this is money to SAVE not splurge on drinks for everyone and a hot tub to go along with it. To each their own, but I’d much rather save that money. Don’t spend money that you technically had to buy.

5. Use what you know

Did you use to babysit in high school? Offer your services again! Know an instrument? Offer to teach a class once a week to a kid who is interested. If you do a craft like woodcutting or sewing, make a Facebook page to promote your craft. You’d be surprised how many family and friends are willing to support you and your art.

6. Get thrifty with it

There's nothing wrong or gross about buying used clothes. Just make sure you check for quality, stains, any holes or stretching of the fabric. There’s a lot at thrift-stores that are actually good quality (sometimes name-brand!) and super cute!

7. Sell clothes

Plato’s closet is a good start, although they can be quite particular with clothes they actually accept. Check other second-hand stores around where you live to sell your clothes. Sometimes you won’t be paid up front and have to open an account with them and come pick up your money once a month. Worth looking into!

8. Don’t buy things

(above, an example of what not to do)

I’ve heard it said, “Don’t invest in things, invest in experiences” and I think that’s really great advice. Do I want to purchase this new makeup or save that money for when I go out with friends to Atlanta? It’s hard holding out for things you want, but it does make a big difference when you cut down on ‘impulse buys’.

One way to combat those impulse buys is to make sure your backpack or purse are filled with food and drink for the day. Try to make your own coffee, food, and snacks at home before you leave for the day. It’s faster and cheaper. Maybe your local coffee shop has discounts if you bring your own cup. Just find small ways to save money on your purchases.

9. Produce

Produce can be expensive, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't buy it. Know the stores that have the best prices (normally) and buy from there. DON’T buy pre-cut fruit or pre-made veggie plates.

Those are outrageously expensive, not to mention normally dryer and worse-tasting than a nice bag of fresh carrots for example. If you want fruit for smoothies, a much cheaper option than paying $10 for berries is to buy a bag of frozen fruit. The fruit is actually fresher and your dollar goes a lot further.

10. Try a ‘savings challenge’

I’ve seen these on Pinterest a lot lately. It looks daunting at first, but it’s a great goal. You can stick to a pre-made plan, or make your own based on your needs.

11. Coconut oil!!

This may sound like a silly piece of advice, but me (and my friends) think this is a real game-changer. This is a great substitute for any oil you cook/bake with, makeup remover, facial moisturizer, lotion, hair-care. Makeup remover can be expensive, but just buy a tub of coconut oil and it will last forever, even if you put it in your hands and your hair too. It is SO GREAT. My friends and I swear by it.

What tips do you have for saving money? Which tip are you going to try out?