How to reduce your spending (2)

Have long lay-ins when possible- this is a good way to save money, you can't waste money while you sleep. Sleeping is free!

Smoking - I know it sounds like I'm preaching but if you smoke you are spending more than you realize, try putting the same amount of money you spend on cigarettes in to a jar each time you do for a week/month. Once the week/month is over count up how much you have and see what else you could of spend that money on. I am against smoking myself however it is personal choice as to weather you do or not.

Going out at the weekend? - Only take the amount of money that you want to spend, this way when your money has run out you can't be tempted to buy more drinks. Also a good tip is to never take your debit or credit cards with you as taking these can not only lead you to spend more but also running the risk of them becoming lost or stolen.

Also try to limit the amount of alcohol you consume, only having this once or twice a week will not only save your money, but will improve your health.

You don't need to get drunk every night to have fun, if you cut back on a few nights then you will be saving yourself a lot of money.

Have a cheap weekend - Drink before going out and only take what money you can afford to spend, this way you can't spend what you don't have with you.

Instead of renting movies try borrowing and swapping films with family and friends.

Instead of ordering a take out, make your own- pizza is easy you can even buy the pizza base and add your own topping, or just get a cheese pizza and add toppings to give it more flavor. Or if you are feeling lazy buy a shop made pizza.

Buy second hand; there are so many places to get second hand goods – so many bargains to be had.

Beg, borrow, and steal - okay not steal but always borrow things where you can, so you don't have to buy if you don’t need to.

An obvious way to save money would be to leave the car at home when you could easily walk to where you need to get to. I know people who use the car to go to the local shop. Also when the weather is good try walking your children to school if its not too far, it will save you time looking for a parking space.

Swap as many of your bills over to direct debit payments not only will this save you the time of having to go to your bank every what seems like 5 minutes to pay a bill. Also most companies will offer a reduction in payment for using the service as it effectively cost them less

Save money off coupons, and use them when you do your weekly shop. These can be found in magazines, newspapers, and don't forget to check your junk mail, as you can sometimes find money off coupons or codes.

Save old Christmas cards and use the pictures off of them to make your own gift tags for next Christmas.

Buy second-hand versions of items you want when appropriate, EBay and Amazon are great places for picking up what you want for less.

Keep a jar or bottle for loose change. You will be surprised how much you have when it's full.