It always seems difficult to save more, and spend less. There is always somewhere else to spend your money — that is why so many people are in debt, and why they don’t save as much as they should.  To help improve your saving money habits, here are some spending and saving tips and advice.

Also, along with saving money, it’s important to learn good budgeting skills. See our budgeting section for some helpful teaching and learning worksheets and lessons.

AVOID COMPULSIVE PURCHASES
Don’t buy things you really don’t need. When shopping, only purchase what you planned on buying. If you find something else you want, hold off on the purchase until the next time. That way, you can have some time to think if the item is really something you need. Also, you can then check if it is within your budget.

PREPARE MEALS AT HOME
Instead of eating breakfast on the way to work, try eating breakfast at home instead. Also, make your own lunch at home and bring it with you to work. It is amazing how much money you will save by preparing your own meals. Also, instead of drinking soda, drink water instead — it will also help you watch your weight. Snacks are something you can bring from home as well. Choose healthy snacks, such as fruit.

AVOID CONVENIENCE STORES
Try not to spend money on groceries at convenience stores unless it is really necessary.

DO ONLINE PRICE COMPARISON
Check prices online before making any large purchases. Online prices are very competitive, and by checking prices online first, you will know if buying at your local store makes sense or not.

TURN DOWN THE TEMPERATURE
Turn down the temperature in your house in the winter, and raise it during the summer. Also reduce the temperature of your hot water heater.

PAY OFF CREDIT CARD DEBT
Credit card debt has one of the highest rates of interest you can pay. Don’t just pay the minimum monthly charge, but try to pay your credit card in full.

KEEP A BUDGET
A great way to help save money is to create a budget, and then stick to it. Even by just tracking where the money is going, you will be more aware of your spending habits, and eliminate unnecessary spending.

SWAP TOYS
If you have kids, instead of buying lots of expensive toys, consider buying less toys, and then swapping toys with friends and family. Kids often lose interest with their toys, but have a greater interest in new toys. By swapping, you can increase the frequency of new toys without spending any additional money.