Reduce family expenses with these top tips

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Reduce family expenses with these top tips

Cutting down on spending can be hard as an individual. But, as a family, it can be even harder. How do you convey to your kids that they need to make some lifestyle changes? Children often don’t understand that people can be made redundant or businesses can go bankrupt, both of which can have huge consequences. You need to try to ensure it never gets to the point of no return (you can check out this Orlando lawyer dealing with bankruptcy for more information). 

While you don’t want your children to worry, it’s important to try to cut down on spending collectively as a family. Life will feel a lot easier if it’s a group effort. Here are some ways to reduce family expenses.  

Meal plan

Families tend to spend a lot on food. Packed lunches, parties and picky eaters mean that lots of food tends to go to waste. The key to cutting down on the cost of food is to start meal planning. This means being organized, working out what you’re going to eat for the week, and sticking to it. Bringing your own lunch to work and buying fewer coffees will help, too.   

Turn off the taps

Kids tend to pick up bad habits easily. Are they leaving the tap running when they brush their teeth? Or showering for longer than necessary? Water bills can be expensive, so teach your children that water is valuable. Make sure they turn the taps off when they aren’t using them. 

Have fun for free

Reducing family expenses doesn’t have to boring. Sure, you might go to fewer theme parks or meals out, but you can still enjoy each other’s company on a budget. Why not plan a picnic in a park, go to some museums or encourage them to put on a play? Kids are energetic and creative – so you don’t need money to keep them entertained.  

Go second hand 

There are certain things you can’t avoid buying. Perhaps your child has outgrown their school jumper. While the idea of second hand shopping might not be appealing, it isn’t the “shameful” thing it once was. In fact, it was never shameful to begin with. It’s ethical, and sensible. Now, you have the internet at your fingertips, so try finding some bargains on eBay or Gumtree. Or, ask around with other parents and see if you can get some school books passed down from children in the years above. There’s no shame in being cost savvy. 

Be more active 

Families tend to spend a lot of money on transport. Whether its fuelling the car, taking the subway or jetting off on a hot holiday, travelling tends to be expensive. So, why not try to be a little more active as a family? Take some bike rides or encourage your kids to start walking to school. They will be more fit and healthy – and saving money at the same time.