Thursday's Tip

Our family always seems to be coming up with unique ways to save for a Disney vacation. Some of our past forays into the world of saving have involved yard sales, couponing, and saving our spare coins. For our Thursday's Tip, here are a few other ways you might be able to pinch a few pennies--and remember, those pennies add up!

• Compare prices on everything! Don't assume that a discount or warehouse store has the cheapest prices on everything. Sometimes those jumbo sizes are misleading. I've found that with coupons, I can usually purchase most items in a smaller, more manageable size for a lower price-per-unit.


• Re-think your prescription refills. Many pharmacies offer incentives to switch to their pharmacy, and mail order companies can sometimes offer a significant savings if you buy a 3-month supply at one time. Search for the best deal that fits your needs.


• Give your grocery cart a once-over. Is there anything in there that you can do without? Are there prepared items that you could purchase whole and prepare yourself? Are there junk foods full of empty calories that would be better replaced with a healthier (and often cheaper) option? Are you paying for packaging, rather than the food?


• Use the three Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle. Not only is it good for the environment; it's also good for your wallet. Some examples: Use less paper towels and napkins by using cloth instead. Or recycle aluminum cans for cash. And don't purchase new boxes or packaging material. Instead, reused salvaged boxes, bubble wrap, etc. Same goes for bags for birthday and Christmas gifts. (It's getting a bit humorous to our family members, as we keep giving and receiving the same bags over the years.)


• Install a dimmer switch on lights and/or a digital thermostat that can be programmed to save on heating and cooling while you're away. Change your furnace filter regularly for optimum performance, and seal up any drafts or cracks that might allow air to escape. Check faucets for drips. Be sure to remove lint from your dryer after every load. These few minor maintenance and repair items can keep you from wasting $ on fuel and energy bills.


• Do a yearly overview of all your negotiable bills--cell phone, cable, insurance, baking fees, etc.--to make sure you're getting the best deal to fit your needs. Don't assume that the "bundle" your company offers is indeed the best deal for you. And while you're at it, be sure to pay your bills on time. There's no easier way to waste money than to pay a late fee.


• Institute a "no spend" day. This is a day set aside each week where all your meals and snacks come from your pantry, and you don't do any sort of shopping. The only caveat: make sure you don't overspend on the next day to compensate!

These are just a few ways to save money. Of course the next step, as you notice that your savings is growing, is to set aside a specific amount in a vacation fund each week or month.