- De-clutter your home and sell all the excess stuff online or at a garage sale
- Pay yourself first. Put some money away automatically from your pay in a separate high interest savings account. If you don't see it you won't miss it. Likewise if you get a pay rise or bonus stick it straight into savings. If you have been living off the lower income then you don't need to increase your expenses to match your pay rise.
- Create a budget, list ALL your expenses and income in 2 columns in a spreadsheet or even just on a piece of paper. The FIDO website has a great budget template spreadsheet and tips. Review your budget regularly.
- Plan your meals before you go shopping and make a list and stick to it. Don't go shopping when you're hungry either!
- Buy cheap cuts of meat and make casseroles and curries etc.
- Supermarket bought cleaning products are expensive. Make your own using vinegar, bicarb, etc.
- Get petrol mid week when the cycle is low even if your tank is not empty.
- Instead of going out for dinner, have a 'pot luck' night with your friends where everyone brings a dish each.
- Check out the Simple Savings and Cheapskates websites, they have some great tips on saving money.