Most people would like to see their money go a little further, and there are plenty of ways to stretch the dollar for food, entertainment and transportation that will save you money without pushing you to make big sacrifices. Setting and maintaining a budget will help you know how much you have to spend after your regular expenses are checked off, and you can make the most of your spendable money by spending it smart.
Groceries
It's possible to save 15 percent or more of what you usually spend on groceries if you use a few smart strategies, according to the Alabama Cooperative Extension. Use grocery store ads and coupons to plan a menu and hit the store with a list based on your menu plan. Stick to your list and don't be tempted by special promotions or displays for items that you don't need or use regularly.
As you're shopping, check prices to make sure that your coupon really gives you the best deal on a particular product. When you're shopping for recipes, consider substitutions that will reduce wasted food. For instance, if a recipe calls for heavy cream but your family seldom uses cream, substitute something your family does regularly use, such as milk.
Entertainment
You can save considerable money on entertainment by changing a few habits. Instead of buying or renting new books, movies or music, get a library card so you can check out books, movies and music for free. Pick up games, toys and craft supplies at thrift stores for low-cost family fun nights. Check your local newspaper for free or low-cost festivals and events in your area to fill up your weekends with budget-friendly fun. If you're a music, sports or theater fan, call your local venue to find out about volunteer opportunities--many offer free admission to events in exchange for help with things such as selling tickets or seating patrons. If you're going out, do it at lunchtime when meals, movie tickets and other activities often have lower price tags.
Transportation
Look for ways to drive less, and you'll save money on gas as well as wear and tear on your car. Combine errands into one or two trips a week, and you'll save time as well as money. Take public transportation to work and events if you can; if public transportation is unavailable or inconvenient, find a carpool buddy to share the daily driving burden.
Check around to be sure that you have the best price you can get on car insurance and consider raising your deductible (the amount of money you pay out-of-pocket for repairs before your insurance picks up the tab) to lower your monthly payments. It can also pay to compare gas prices using a site such as GasBuddy.com because the price per gallon can vary by as much among gas stations as $0.20 in some areas.
