
If you are reading this and have other money saving tips you would like to share, please add it the "comment" section below.
For other money saving tips on each of the categories listed below, click on the category titles.
1. Use Cash - most people tend to spend less when paying cash vs. a credit card or even a debit card. As an added incentive, some retailers, such as gas stations - offer discounts to cash paying customers in order for them to save money on high bank merchant fees.
2. Pay Bills Online - sign up for auto payments online to pay your bills. Not only do you save money on postage stamps and checks, but it also ensures that your payment is not late - avoiding those pesky late fees!
HEALTH
3. Free Yoga Classes - yoga is one of the best ways to stay fit physically and spiritually. For the months of September and October, select yoga studios are offering one week of free classes for new students! Check out YogaMonth.org for more details.
4. Dental Checkups - to receive low cost dental care, dental schools often have clinics that allow dental students to gain experience treating patients. Contact your local dental school for more information. For affordable dental plans, visit DentalPlans.com.
5. Eye Exams - if you are 65 and better, you can receive free eye examinations, plus a one-year follow up by volunteer ophthalmologists. For more details, visit EyeCareAmerica.org. If you are looking for affordable eye care, click here.
FOOD
6. Save Leftovers - don't just reheat your leftovers, get creative - add other ingredients to make a whole new meal. My personal tip - most leftovers taste better with butter, garlic and onions!
7. Cheap Breakfast - feast on IKEA's breakfast plate of scrambled eggs, bacon and potatoes for only 99¢. Check your local IKEA store for other cheap (and yummy good) eats throughout the day.
8. Grow Your Own - save money on herbs such as basil, cilantro, rosemary or lavender. Plant your own herb garden or potted herbs to add to salads and meals. Plant and grow your own vegetables and fruits too.
AUTO
9. Save On Insurance Cost - if you are on the market for a new or pre-owned vehicle, consider purchasing an SUV, a pick up truck or even a mini-van. These types of vehicles usually cost less to insure than others. Compare auto insurance cost here.
10. Free Air Checks - keep your tires inflated to maximize gas mileage, especially on long trips. Low tire pressure robs gas mileage - up to three miles per gallon! Get free air checks at tire centers such as Discount Tire stores.
11. Read Customer Reviews - if you don't have a reliable mechanic and are looking to get your car repaired in the near or immediate future, it's helping to read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp.com. Determine if a certain repair shop or mechanic fits your need from the customer's experiences on the reviews.
SHOPPING
12. Free Stuff - who doesn't like free stuff? However, only take freebies if you actually need them or will use them in the future. Otherwise, they are just junk that is taking up space in your house. If you are looking for something in particular, go to Craigslist.org under their FREE section. Also check out FreeCycle.org - a network of members who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. It's all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. For other freebie tips, click here.
13. Free Samples - many companies give away samples to consumers to try out hoping they will like it and purchase their full size product down the line. Check out sites like MrFreeStuff.com for free samples and other free goodies.