Prudential budgeting secrets: How many of these are you doing?

On a tight budget? We’ve put together 15 dollar-saving tips that will have you pocketing more of your earnings.

Saving water

  • Don’t keep the water running! Wash fruit & veggies in a half-filled sink, and apply the same method to your morning routine.
  • Wait for a full load before turning on the dishwasher or washing machine. And whenever possible, do a cold wash.
  • Swap to a water efficient showerhead.
  • Close taps tightly so they don’t drip.

Saving power

    • Only heat/cool occupied rooms. Shut all other doors, and use door snakes for gaps.
    • Dry clothes in the sun when possible, rather than using a heater or dryer.
    • Switch to LED lights – they save energy and last much longer.
    • Turn off appliances or chargers at the powerpoint, so they don’t use standby power.

General

    • Swap before buying. Books, movies, tools, appliances – does a friend or relative have it for you to borrow?
    • Meal prep! Pre-pack meals to reduce the need to eat out.
    • Opt for second-hand. Look on Gumtree before buying in a chain store.
    • Entertain at home over going to eat out.
    • Shop when you have time – you’ll be more likely to miss discounts in a rush.
    • Stream fitness classes. And ditch the gym membership you don’t use!
    • Invest in a coffee machine to save on bought morning coffees.