Small things are easier to change than big things. Smaller things take smaller steps that are way more conceivable than bigger steps. Sometimes though, it is there smaller steps that really can lead to something big.
We are all the time looking for those small things that we can change. The things that won’t hurt too much, but that eventually will lead to bigger changes and ultimately, to bigger savings. And believe me, there are a lot!
Here are some of the things that we are doing on a regular basis:
Internet shopping. Funny as it may sound, I have only recently starting using this outlet more extensively. By comparing prices and having some patience for the shipping it is really unbelievable how much you can save instead of going to the regular chain stores. I still find it very important, though, to buy from and support the local makers and businesses.
TV. We have no cable TV. What we have instead is a satellite receiver (one-time purchase of NIS 200) that gives us access to the state TV channels. I am a huge fan of the educational channel that has the best programs for children! We supplement with a Netflix subscription (USD 8/ month). And yes, I know that Netflix Israel doesn’t have all the shows and films but so far I have plenty to watch.
Drinking water. We almost only drink water from the tap. Keep in it glass bottles in the fridge. Tastes fine to me, is healthier and doesn’t cost much.
Swap babysitting. Lately we have been swapping babysitting with good friends that have kids in the same age like ours. Saves a lot of money when we go out.
Activities with kids. As much as I can, I try to find things to do with the kids that doesn’t cost much (or nothing at all). There are plenty of those, like crafts, games, walks and biking and I find that normally those are the things that gives us the best value when it comes to quality time.
Haircuts. Dear Husband jokingly says that he has been sporting the same haircut all his life. Once is mother did it, now I do it. Every month or two, I machine cut his and our sons hair. The only cost is the machine (the latest is already 5+ years old) and with a little practice it looks just like at the hairdresser’s.
Insurances. There is always money to save by going through insurances. We found double ones, some with a too high management fee and others that we realized we don’t need. A very personal issue, but never the less, one worth investing a little bit of time and effort in.
Waiting. Waiting is one of the best ways to save money, really. Want it now? Wait a day, a week, a month. Still want it? Still think you will need it? Still think you can afford it? Buy it!
Made any small changes of your own? I would love to hear them 🙂
Jeg ved ikke med israel, men i dk er autostole deres egen vægt værd i guld. Vi køber præcis de samme i tyskland eller england på Amazon. Leveret 3 dage efter og stadig med 40 % besparelse. Og sådan er det faktisk med en del baby-dims. Også kendte mærkevare -fx tripptrapp stole. Meget billigere i tyskland. Og så er gul og gratis altså tit en guldgrube.