My 2 Cents: A 60 Day Blogging Journey (25/60): Balancing the Budget

I'm sure most of these money saving tips will sound like common sense; but, there may be a few you didn't think of. I heard one on tv, I had never thought of. I will admit I still struggle here but have definitely improved and learned a lot!  

Grocery Shopping:

There is nothing I like more than going to buy groceries with a budget of $50 and spending $42. This can happen by buying only what's on your list and buying the store brand as opposed to the name brand. Often the store brand taste just as good. Not always is this the case: Off brand Pop-Tarts are terrible! (Of course let's be real Pop-Tarts aren't always that amazing in the first place!) Buying the brand that is on sale. Don't forget couponing is always an option! If you plan ahead this is the best way to save money! 

Vacation:

Cheapest/smallest hotel room (as long as the reviews are decent and its clean why not? Often you dont stay in the room other than to sleep!) Local joints are often cheaper than chains because of advertising. Traveling with a friend who knows somewhere like the back of their hand is great too in order to save a little money. 

Eating Out: 

A great way to save is order take out and pick it up yourself. Don't order a drink with take out. You save delivery fees and tips. While dining. To go box leftovers can help offset that price you spent on that meal. Pick either app or desert. Not both. (Often I do neither). Drink water. No free refills? pay for 1 and then get water. Bottled water? No. It adds up so quickly. You truly don't need it. You can drink tap water. Some studies show that's all it is anyway. I mean they are convenient for on the go and yes I use them but it's a good way to cut not only cost but also help the environment. 

Neccessary? 

Do you need it?! This is the hardest thing however it's important. 

Clothes shopping: 

Clearance rack. No shame in my game. I always head there first and rarely even look at the regular racks.

Enough is enough: 

Stick to the budget, when you're at the limit. Stop. Sounds simple but not easy. 

Apps:

There are tons of apps for saving you money! 

What are some things you have learned about budgeting. Let me know!