Beat the heat without breaking the bank!
Cost-cutting ideas for independent contractors.
Are you seeking money-saving advice now that the weather has heated up? Some budgeting strategies are no-brainers, like programming a higher thermostat setting while you’re away from home and comparing hotel prices on various booking sites. But there are other ways that gig economy workers can avoid wallet burn too! Here are seven strategies for living frugally without sacrificing fun:
1. Cut your food costs
Trips to the scoop shop can add up when it’s sweltering outside, especially if you have a large family. Opt for inexpensive homemade frozen treats instead, like this three-ingredient no-churn vanilla ice cream recipe from Martha Stewart. Are you spending a lot of cash on food during the workweek? Save money by packing your lunch—doing this just one or two days a week adds up over time. To economize, shop for seasonal produce instead of out-of-season finds or give pick-your-own farms a try, which offer significant savings.
2. Get fit for free
Consider putting your online fitness subscriptions on pause for the summer. Take advantage of your flexible work schedule and head outside early to beat the heat. No-cost, outdoor workouts will boost your mood, give you a dose of vitamin D, and reduce spending (But don’t forget the sunscreen!). Go jogging, swim, play tennis, or ride your bike. Whatever you do, if you enjoy the way you move your body, you’re more likely to stick with it.
3. Travel smart
As vaccination numbers rise, travel is increasing, and prices are returning to normal (and higher in some cases). With everyone wanting to go somewhere all at the same time, it’s tougher to vacation economically, but you still can—it just requires advanced research. Here, CNBC shares seven ways to save on summer travel. For ideas on where to go, check out this list of 27 cheap places to travel from Forbes.
4. Sell your unwanted clothes
Consider selling your gently used clothing through an online marketplace to make extra cash. Making use of what you no longer use is smart, and it can help boost your savings or help fund your long-awaited vacation. In this article, Good Housekeeping shares tips and tricks for selling your clothes online, including specifics about timing and how to make your photos stand out. They also narrow down the best places to sell used apparel online.
5. Take advantage of tax-free holidays
Some states offer tax-free weekends for purchases like computers, computer software, school supplies, and clothes. This article details which states, or states near you, offer this tax advantage. You do not have to be a state resident to hone in on these deals! So save the dates and make your back-to-school savings count this year.
6. Shop online in incognito mode
Use private browsing or incognito mode when shopping online. Incognito mode automatically deletes your browser history when you close a tab, eliminating the ability for companies to track what you’re looking at and potentially raise prices if you leave the site and come back later to make a purchase. This tip is especially beneficial when buying big-ticket items such as booking vacation travel. To learn how to keep your internet search history private, click here.
7. Have fun without spending money
Budgeting on a fluctuating income can be tough! Summer’s hot and sticky weather is your cue to get creative with free or inexpensive ways to have fun. Find thrifty activities in your area by reading your local paper or checking out your town’s website. Many areas sponsor free outdoor concerts and movies in the summertime. Several attractions like zoos and art museums also waive admission prices on designated “free days.” So start planning now and mark your calendar to make this your best summer yet!