10 Ways To Beat The Credit Crunch

We may all be feeling the bite from the dreaded ‘Credit Crunch’ but it’s not all doom and gloom and it certainly doesn’t mean that we can’t still enjoy life! Follow our guide to the top 10 tips to beat the squeeze.

1. Cut your energy bills- Did you know around 1/3 of heat is lost through your walls and roofs through inadequate insulation? Invest in some cavity and loft insulation- research has proven your investment will be more than worth it and the cost can be made back in less than 2 years! Look into whether you could be eligible for a discount. You can even fit it yourself if you’re willing to get your hands a bit dirty!

2. Avoid the crowds and shop online- You’ll not be tempted by those tempting treats that you can’t really afford. Working from a shopping list can also really cut your spending as you’ll only buy what you need and make impulse purchases. Shopping midweek can also cut costs, Tesco’s online delivery service for your groceries is cheaper midweek.

3. Discount code websites- Can offer you huge savings on items ranging from haircuts and electricals to dining out. Remember businesses want to get you through their door and will offer plenty of incentives to tempt you to buy.

4. Cut out expensive take aways- Cooking meals from scratch really cuts cost and won’t take as long as you think. You also know exactly what is going into your dinner. Traditional recipes such as cottage pie and toad in the hole have been known to rocket in popularity when times are hard. Leftovers can be taken for a delicious and nutritious packed lunch or frozen for later. You can even freeze wine in your ice cube tray to be added to make delicious sauces next time!

5. Dine in rather than eat out- Hosting a dinner party can be a great compromise. Consider the fact that a bottle of wine is usually more than twice the cost at your local bistro. One night of hosting friends also means more nights out around their place!

6. Buy in season- You’re mad if you choose out of season fruit or vegetables- you will have effectively paid for your turnip to travel first class from the other side of the world! Be like the French and just buy fruit and vegetable that are in season, you’ll not only save money but you’ll save the planet too.

7. Make your own cards and presents- Friends and family will really appreciate your extra time and thoughtfulness. How about making some delicious truffles in a handmade box? You can add extra flourishes that will make your gift unique and unforgettable.

8. A little research goes a long way- and even better price comparison websites do all the hard work for you. For example you can compare car insurance online and search all the best deals so you don’t need to wade through hundreds of quotes.

9. Re-use and re-sell- Your unwanted items might be able boost your finances. How often have you bought something only to get home and decide that it doesn’t really fit or you don’t really like it? Rather than taking it back and keeping it ‘just in case’ just think, when will you really wear it? There may be someone just crying out for your unwanted item. Auction sites such as eBay and the newly re-launched Oxfam shops could be your new best friend. You can also make the most of others doing the same.

10. Book ahead for travel- Planning ahead can save you pounds. Companies such as Eurostar offer a limited number of seats at great discounts but these are first come first served so as soon as you know your dates get online and snap up those bargains.

Although we know cutting back is order of the day now economising can really help change your way of thinking in the long-term. Why spend more when you can pay less? Who knows, your pennies could add up to a little an extra little treat or two.