This recession has motivated some people to attempt extreme frugality measures. Instead of waiting for the inevitable shortfall requiring them to take out payday loans, some people have decided it’s best to nip the money beast early and just do without. They reason that by forgoing some modern conveniences they are able to save hundreds of dollars a month, which they stash away in savings for an emergency fund. If you’re thinking of ways to cut expenses, here are a few that might make you pale in horror, but that others have found are acceptabl lifestyle choices that save them money.
No Air Zone
Air conditioning is one of those modern conveniences that people take for granted these days. However, it comes with some heavy duty utility bills. That’s why some families have pulled the plugged and declared their homes no air-conditioned zones. This is happening even in the South where air conditioning is seen as an absolute necessity. In these areas, a family may decide to go air-less for a month at the beginning of the hot season and at the end, saving some if not all of their utility bill. Instead of air-conditioning, lifestyle changes are made to incorporate grilling, cool drinks, fans, and lots of activities outside.
Become a Vegetarian
Eating meat is more expensive pound per pound than vegetables. Some people are opting for vegetarianism as a way to save money as well as to be healthier. If you want to take this even further, you can choose to start vegetable gardening to help reduce your food bill even further.
Go Car-Less
In metropolitan areas with great public transportation, this is easier than you might think. A car is definitely one of the largest expenses in anyone’s budget as it comes with high gas costs, repair bills, and insurance premiums. Taking the car out of the budget can save several hundred dollars instantly. It does require some patience and familiarity with the public transportation system, but may offer monthly passes that can cost you just a fraction of what it would cost to own and maintain your own car. For a little extra inconvenience, many people are finding it a workable trade in greater monthly cashflow to lose the car.