SPRING INTO SAVINGS WITH OUR 10 SMART WAYS TO SAVE
As the dreary winter days turn into the promise of spring, now is the perfect time to spring clean your finances and save, with our 10 spring savings tips.
Shop the spring sales
The beginning of spring is the perfect time to snag winter gear at a discount. From sweaters to snow pants, retailers try to get rid of these items to make room for spring merchandise.
Stock up on frozen foods
March is National Frozen Food Month and grocery stores often mark down frozen foods at the start of spring and run through April. Therefore, fill your freezer with frozen fruits and veggies to cook healthy meals for less. Frozen fruit smoothies can make the perfect healthy treat on those hot summer days.
Use your tax return wisely
If you’re expecting a tax refund this year, don’t let your refund burn a hole in your pocket. Instead, give your refund money purpose. Whether it’s putting a portion of your refund toward an emergency fund, paying off high-interest debt, or spending it on something you need, prioritize your financial needs over your desires. Check out our 10 tax tips!
Spring cleaning
Spring cleaning can be time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be money-consuming. If the season gives you the urge to clean, take inventory. The truth is, you probably have more than enough cleaning products to get the job done hiding in the depths of your cabinets. If not, skip buying pricey cleaners and make your own. Homemade cleaning products are both environmentally friendly and easy on your wallet. There are plenty of DIY recipes available online.
Rummage sales
Spring is the start of rummage sale season and what better way to save! As the saying goes one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. Buying second-hand is budget friendly and eco-friendly, producing less waste for the environment.
Open the windows
The cold is almost gone… and so are those pesky wintertime heat bills. As the weather gets warmer, instead of turning on the air conditioning, open up those windows. Breathe the scent of the fresh spring air while keeping your home cool.
Plant a garden
Are you tired of paying an arm and a leg for fresh vegetables at the grocery store? Are the store-bought vegetables that you buy lacking in flavor? Take care of both of these problems by planting your own garden. All it takes is a little dirt, water and some tender loving care.
Exercise outside
For us Minnesotans, the winter makes it difficult for us to exercise in the great outdoors. Now that the snow has passed, you might be able to ditch your gym membership and opt for outdoor workouts instead. The scenery is much prettier to look at, the air is much cleaner to breathe, and the best part is that it is free!
Ride your bike
Gasoline prices continue to rise, and as the spring and summer holidays get nearer, they will only continue to go up. Instead of driving a block or two to your favorite credit union, why not walk or ride your bike. You’ll get some great exercise, and you’ll save money. Better yet, you’ll be doing a little bit to save the environment as well.
Cut the cord
Despite having access to close to 200 TV channels, you may only regularly watch 17 of them, and now that it is spring that number may be less. Therefore, consider trimming your cable package or cut the cord completely this spring. Cutting the cord can save you money but may not be for everyone. So know your usage and shop around to make sure you are getting the best deal for your use.
“In winter, I plot and plan. In spring, I move.” -Henry Rollins
