In recent years, consumer prices have risen, sometimes significantly. But with a few tips that can be implemented in the short and medium term, you can easily save money.
Recognize optimization potential
If you want to save, you should first draw up a budget plan that is based on your individual income and expenses. This plan should account for all expenses such as rent, groceries, clothing, and vacations. This not only helps prioritize expenses, but also ensures there is enough money for important needs. Optimization potential can then be defined, such as avoiding unnecessary expenses or finding cheap alternatives.
Great savings potential when shopping
There is great savings potential when shopping in the supermarket, according to the consumer advice center. Due to the sharp increase in food prices, it is worth comparing the prices of food products in detail based on the basic price. Alternatives to branded products, such as own brands, are usually significantly cheaper and, according to Stiftung Warentest, also of good quality. The inexpensive foods are often arranged on the lower and upper shelf areas, which is why they are also called stretched and folded goods. According to the consumer advice center, you should avoid ready meals and fast food as much as possible because, considering the quantity, they are comparatively expensive. Cooking yourself is not only healthy, but also easy on the wallet.
As a further saving tip, the consumer advice center recommends drinking tap water instead of expensive mineral water and having a drinking bottle ready to refill when you’re on the go. You should also avoid particularly expensive grocery shopping locations such as gas stations and kiosks.
Reduce electricity and heating costs
There are also many ways to save money at home. The consumer advice center recommends that you first check the basic service tariff and compare it with other providers. If necessary, switching offers significant savings potential.
In everyday life, unnecessary costs can be reduced by unplugging devices that are not in use and thus avoiding standby mode. Dishwashers and washing machines should always be completely filled and laundry should be air dried if possible. In particular, correct and thoughtful heating can have a positive effect on your wallet. The consumer advice center advises you to always make sure that the heating is vented and not covered by furniture. Dust and lint can also reduce heat emission. In addition, for every degree of room temperature less, around six percent of heating energy can be saved. In summer the heating can usually be switched off completely.
Keep an eye on subscriptions
According to the consumer advice center, subscriptions for entertainment offers such as streaming services, fitness studios and club memberships should be checked regularly. It is usually worth canceling particularly expensive or rarely used entertainment offers. Expensive leisure activities, such as going to the cinema, the theater or restaurants, should also be reduced or replaced with free leisure activities.
Editorial team finanzen.net