Saving Made Simple: 5 Easy Tips for Creating Family Savings

As a family there are certain expenses you have to pay, such as rent or a mortgage, household bills, and car insurance, while other costs like clothing, food, and entertainment may vary.

While there are some high expenses that you cannot avoid, there are other costs that, if left unchecked, could cost you more than they have to. To make the most of every dollar and start putting more into the bank, consider these five easy tips for creating family savings.

1. Plan Meals

One of the biggest ways that families spend frivolously is eating out. On average, a planned meal at home costs between two to five dollars per serving. Even at a budget fast-food restaurant, the cost of a meal is usually five to eight dollars per person.

A planned meal is not only cheaper, but it is usually healthier as well. Eating at home can help your savings and your health, which both pay off in the long run.

2. Create Family Goals

A family that saves together, stays together. Though it may sound silly, it is quite true. Setting goals in general and working towards them as a family unit creates a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. A financial goal can also generate excitement and make room for fun family bonding.

For example, you could create a “Family Fun Fund” and have everyone contribute their loose change or any size contribution to the fund. You can set a goal of reaching a certain amount by a specific date and agree upon a family activity once the family savings goal is met.

3. Force Savings

For those who struggle with budgeting and properly allocating savings before miscellaneous spending, finance experts suggest forcing savings. Have the money automatically taken off of your paycheck before you even see it.

For some, just not being able to see the money sitting there is enough to keep their hands off of it. For others, another precautionary measure could be to have it sent to an account that cannot be easily accessed. Some common choices are a 401(k) or a savings account that would require you to visit the bank to withdraw money from it.

4. Sell and Shop Consignment

Families tend to acquire large amounts of new items on a regular basis. And many times, older items are often packed away or left in the back of the closet to never see the light of day again.

Rather than harbouring these items, you can sell them to a consignment shop and get a little return on your investment. While you are there, check out what the store has to offer. You might be shocked at the treasures you find for budget prices.

5. Get Creative

You do not always have to go out to have fun as a family. Get creative and try different, free things in the house or around the neighbourhood. Some fun suggestions include:

• Game or movie night
• Cook together trying new recipes
• Go to the park
• Read books together from the library

These are just a few ideas for saving on the common expenses that families have. For those more expensive costs, you should definitely shop around. Whatever you choose to help you save, make sure that it is the best choice for your family and then watch your family savings grow!