8 money-saving tips to help you budget

Raising a family is expensive, so here's 8 money-saving tips to help you budget.

If you're like us and feeling money is a little tight right now, we want to help you with some budgeting tips we've picked up along the way.

It pays to plan ahead, learn to say no, and keep track of your outgoings to reduce waste.

8 money-saving tips to help you budget

Here are our top 8 money-saving tips to help you budget.

1. Focus on food costs: If you plan all your meals and then just go shopping once a week based on your meal plan, it'll limit unnecessary spending. Use cash instead of card to avoid overspending and always check out what's on offer in case you can find cheaper alternatives.
2. Keep special occasions simple: Birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas... they all add up. But you don't need to go crazy. It's about memories, not expense. So use your imagination.
3. Try pre-loved: Not only will the second-hand life save you money, it's better for the environment! Try thrift stores and yard sales, or why not host a clothing swap with your neighbours? Online marketplaces and buy and sell Facebook groups are also great for shopping when you need something,
4. Use your imagination: Don't confuse having a good time with expensive activities and dream vacations. Kids will have as much of a good time playing in the garden and eating homemade cake. Just use your imagination to think outside the box.
5. Plan ahead for the holidays: Everything is cheaper when you plan ahead, so just learn to be better prepared. Shop in the sales, make decorations and gifts where you can, and set spending limits in advance.
6. Focus on housing costs: Things like being mindful of electricity use and how often you use the washing machine can save money on bills. And try some upcycling!
7. Talk budgeting with the kids: It's important that kids learn from an early age that money doesn't grow on trees. It's also important that you teach them how to save, and that pocket money is linked to chores.
8. Make and grow things when you can: You don't need to go overboard but you can make cleaning products for example by looking up recipes online, and you could grow herbs and some fruits and vegetables inexpensively at home.