Three simples ways to save after an expensive summer

Are your pockets feeling empty at the end of the summer? As we sink into September and soak up the last of the sun, the oncoming grey cloud may be the least of our worries.  It can be easy to get anxious that we may have overdone it; that the flights, food and merriment may have come at an unaffordable price. After all, without sounding like a mean old miser, having fun does unfortunately come at a cost, and no-one wants to be cashless come Christmas. But fret not, for we have some top tips for saving up over the coming months so that you can look forward to your next holiday.

Keep the change

In a cashless age, it’s easy to forget that the pennies add up – that all those coppers could make all the difference come December. If you’re a Monzo card holder, you can create the virtual equivalent of a piggy bank, without the hassle of having to take all the coins to the bank or smash it open cartoon-style with a hammer. Simply create a new pot on the latest version of the app and name it “Coin Jar” and Monzo will automatically round up every payment up to the next pound, transferring the change to your pot. You’ll be surprised how quickly it adds up.

Don’t buy what you don’t need

It may sound obvious, but next time you head to the shop, think to yourself: is this an essential purchase? If the answer is no, then walk on by and by all means feel free to be self-righteous in your restraint – it’s not an easy task in this consumerist age. If the answer is yes, then ask: is there another way of getting what I need? If you’re looking for a new toaster or kettle, ask around – you may well find someone else has a spare one in the loft that’s in working condition. If you need tools, simply borrow them and repay the favour later.

Reuse and recycle

If you need a new pencil case or makeup bag, try crafting your own from old fabrics or bags for something one-of-a-kind. If you really need a new dress but you’re only going to use it once, why not borrow one from a friend, see if you have one you haven’t worn for a while, or layer it to create a new look? 

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