Hey readers,
Being a parent can be costly but that doesn't mean you need to spend loads. I have a few money tips that have really helped cut down costs.
My first money parenting tip would be is to not have kids...jokes!
When I use the term preloved it basically means second hand but sounds nicer. Nowadays it is less frowned upon to buy second-hand. You can get some cracking bargains from second-hand shops such as baby clothes (you don't need to spend a ton on clothing because babies hardly last a long time as they are constantly growing). Other places to find good bargains are facebook marketplace, vinted, eBay is really good for things like toys, baby bottles, pushchairs. A good old clean-over and wash will bring things out clean so don't worry if something has been used by someone else before it still has plenty of life in them, and why pay silly prices for stuff when you can get good bargains pre-loved.
2. Family day-out vouchers.
Check food items such as check cereal boxes, crisps, and chocolate bars as they often have vouchers on days out for a 2 for 1 deal. For example, a current deal is Kellogs cereal and snack packs have 2 for 1 voucher where adults get in free (as long accompanied by a paying child) to merlin places such as sea life center, Legoland, Alton Towers. These vouchers are valid up to 30th June 2022. It is advised that the vouchers should be used in advance to guarantee entry.
3. Plan meals.
A good way to save money on food is to plan your meals ahead. For example, write down your week's meals. You can then write down what you need on a list, stick to that list which means then you are less likely to act on impulse and save you money.
Batch cooking is also a good way to save on money and time as though you doubling up you will have cooked the meal in one go saving time. It can also work out cheaper if you buy in bigger quantities which in turn will save you money in the long term.
4. No spend day.
Having a day a week where you have a no-spend day can be really good and stop you in your tracks and make you think about the things whether you really need them.
5. Loyalty cards.
Loyalty cards don't offer instant rewards, but instead, keep points for how much you spend and then offer you a coupon once you've spent a certain amount of money. Some loyalty programs earn you cash or credit instead of coupons and discounts that you can use for future purchases. It can be handy to save your loyalty points for Christmas as this will help reduce the cost of Christmas.
6. Picnic.
If you do go on a day out pack a picnic and bring your own drinks, ethics can save a small fortune, especially going to attractions that overcharge for food and drink.
7. Emails.
Unsubscribe from all the shop emails trying to entice you to come back and spend money, out of sight out of mind. Yes, they can give good offers but there is no point if you don't actually need the item. when you did need an item you will find good deals by simply researching on Google.
8. Library.
Make use of the library - save money on books and have a free app where you can read a variety of magazines digitally and cost nothing. Not only that they also do free classes for kids such as storytime and creative sessions so check your local library for what events are on.
9. Meat-free.
Eating meat, especially good quality meat can cost a lot of money. Things like beans, grains, and vegetables can be a lot more reasonable and still be nutritious. Even if it is just once or twice a week where you go meat-free can save some money.
Have I missed anything that you think is a good money-saving tip for a parent? Love to hear your thoughts in the comments section down below.
Cheers for reading X
