Prices are high, and anywhere that you can save money, you should. The first thing to do is take a look at your spending and see where it can be decreased. There are some really easy things you can knock off the list right now. Here are 15 everyday items you're overpaying for.
Cable TV
If you haven't priced out the streaming services yet, do it today. Cable TV is no longer the cheapest game in town. Streaming services will save you money, and you may even have better features and access to shows you love.
Cell Phone Plans
If it's been a while since you've priced out cell phone plans, now is the time to do it. You would be surprised how much companies are willing to offer to get you to switch to their service. Take advantage of this!
Brand Name Groceries
If you are picky about generic groceries, try starting with one product at a time. Go with something like beans or pasta and see if you really notice the difference. Over time, you may find you like some generic products better, and you'll save a lot of money.
Bottled Water
If you still haven't figured the bottled water thing out, now is the time. Even if you buy an expensive reusable water bottle, you make up for it in no time with the money you will save.
Greeting Cards
Even just a basic greeting card can cost more than $7.00. Find a way to make your own or purchase a generic pack and get creative with them. Some dollar stores also offer greeting cards, and you'll pay a lot less.
Coffee Pods
Using a refillable pod with your own coffee grounds is more economical and environmentally friendly. At least coffee pods are less expensive than your daily trip to the coffee shop, but you can still do even better.
Laundry Detergent
When you buy laundry detergent in bulk, you will save a lot. Some people are also learning how to make their own laundry detergent to make this a more affordable process. Don't forget that hanging your clothes on a line to dry can also save you more money.
Name Brand Medications
Talk to your doctor about switching to generic medications. You'll be surprised by how much the medications are when the brand name comes off the bottle. Some brand names also have savings plans you can look into if you don't want to make the switch.
Personal Care Products
When a small container of deodorant costs $13, you know things have gotten out of hand. Look at buying in bulk or purchasing a multi-use product, which can help you lower the costs. Also, look for discounts online instead of purchasing from your local pharmacy.
Pre-Cut Fruit and Vegetables
It may seem convenient, but you'll never save so much time that it's worth the money you just paid to have your fruit cut up for you. Not to mention the fact that you'll get more time before the fruit and vegetables go bad if you don't purchase them cut up.
Premium Gasoline
If your car does not specifically require you to put premium gasoline in it, don't do it! You'll overpay, and you won't get much for it in return.
Shaving Supplies
Purchasing a safety razor with replaceable blades is cheaper over time than disposable razors. The disposable razors are expensive, and they sometimes only last for a few shaves before they are finished.
Software and Apps
Check your computer and your phone every once in a while and see what you are paying for. If you have lots of apps and subscriptions that you don't use, go ahead and delete them and save yourself some money.
Packaged Snacks
Purchase large bags of snacks and then portion them into small reusable containers. The expense of buying pre-packaged snacks is the packaging, and it's simply not worth it.
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