If you’ve read money saving tips from elsewhere on the internet, you might be left feeling more worried than you were when you first started looking for help! There are so many online guides for saving money that advise you to cut out every luxury and small enjoyment from your life. At LoanPig, we understand that this can be disheartening and we think you can save money and still have a social life if you’re savvy.
Look for Discounts
If your friend has chosen to get everyone together for a meal for her birthday, the chances are you don’t want to miss out. If money worries would normally see you making your excuses to avoid going out, try looking for discounts online before you turn down the offer. Most restaurants have in-house deals that can be found on their websites. Make sure you read the small print first because sometimes these deals are only available on certain days. Alternatively, check out dedicated discount websites, like Groupon, for deals and discounts to save the whole group money!
Search For Free Events
There are so many free events available across the UK, from music festivals to food and drinks fairs, take advantage of them. You don’t need to go to an expensive venue to have a good time. In the summer, plan picnics and when the weather gets colder check out museums or galleries. These venues make great places to socialise, whether you’re meeting up with friends or going on dates.
Walk More
If you want to go out and save money, consider your transport options. Driving or taking the bus into town to meet your friends can add between £5-£10 extra onto your day out, in terms of parking and petrol, or ticket costs. Whenever you have the chance, ditch the public transport or car and walk instead. Not only is it better for your health and the environment, it’s also free! This means you can enjoy your day out without worrying about how much you’ve spent.
Plan a Night In
One of the most affordable ways to save money is by staying in! This might sound like the opposite of being sociable but if you invite your friends over you can have just as much fun as you would by going out. Make food together and do everything you’d normally do but for a much lower cost. If you’d usually head to a cocktail bar on Friday night, why not club together for some alcohol and mixers to make your own drinks? Supermarket food and drink is much more affordable and you get more for your money, so it’s a win win situation.
Stop Using Contactless Payments
When you go out, take a set amount of cash with you. This will stop you from overspending or being easily swayed by your friends. It’s all too easy to tap or swipe your card, without thinking about the consequences until you get your statement through a few days later. When you take cash out with you, you’re setting yourself a budget for the day which will benefit your bank account in the long term.