Money-Saving Tips on 3 Daily Expenses

The price tag on these everyday items may surprise you.

If you're like most of us, you typically drink coffee, eat a few meals outside the home, and need transportation on most days. Usually, we don't stop to think about these costs because they tend to be small increments here and there. But when we start evaluating what we’re spending our money on, we may realize that there are hundreds or even thousands of dollars we could be saving every year. Keep reading for money-savings tips on some everyday expenses to help you be a savvier spender.

1. Meals

One of the most basic principles of life is that we all need to consume nutrients to fuel our bodies. But how much we spend is completely up to us. Many of us know that cooking at home takes time. Time to plan meals, time to shop for ingredients, time to prepare the food, and then more time to clean up the mess.

Getting food from a restaurant – no matter if it’s sit-down, drive-thru, or take-out – is certainly an easier option. But what if we told you that by cooking homemade meals every night you could save, on average, $12 per person per meal? Typically, a meal made from outside the home costs $20 per person. And that does not include tipping the wait staff! While a meal made at home usually costs around $8 per person. Then, you can add in the savings from bulk-buying, shopping sale items, or using coupons. A great way to continue to save on meal expenses is to make larger quantities so there are leftovers for lunches, snacks, or even another dinner.

The prep, clean-up, and cooking time may be reduced when you start using leftovers to their full potential. Not a leftovers kind of person? If you have extra food, don’t throw it out! Search online for ways to repurpose your leftovers as a new meal.

2. Transportation

For most, transportation is a necessity. We need a way to go to work, run errands, visit family, or simply just get from point A to point B. Some people may ride a bike or walk, and others may own a vehicle. If you own a vehicle, or are thinking about purchasing one, here are some things to consider.

Opting for public transportation over a vehicle may be a good way to save money. Taking public transit will likely be 10x cheaper than owning your own vehicle. According to globalnews.ca, on average it costs a little over $900 a year for adult public transportation passes in Canada. That’s a fraction of the cost of buying a vehicle, and paying for interest on a loan, maintenance, insurance, parking fees, and gas.

Bonus! Many areas are adopting user-friendly, easy-to-navigate public transportation systems with convenient online websites or mobile apps to store tickets and schedules, and view routes.

It is realistic to note that public transportation isn’t feasible for everyone due to the area they live in or how far they may need to travel. But don’t fret! We still have money-saving tips for vehicle owners. Consider carpooling with someone who lives in your area or works near you. You could split gas costs or, if they also have a car, alternate which days you’ll take either vehicle. This could reduce the wear and tear on your vehicle or at least save a little money at the pump.

3. Coffee

We all love a hot cup of Joe, right? Well, have you ever thought about how much money you may be spending just by running to your favorite coffee shop a few times a week? Or in some cases, a few times a day. Don’t worry, your secret is safe with us!

It’s not a secret that specialty shops charge several dollars for a cup of coffee, and the occasional impulse treat. By brewing your coffee at home, you could significantly cut your coffee spending costs. Purchase a coffee machine at your favorite home goods store, select your ground coffee, and get to brewing! If plain coffee isn’t your thing, many grocers carry quality add-ins to give your caffeine boost that extra something. Another money-saving tip for coffee is to take advantage of the free coffee at your workplace, if available.

Pick your way to save

We know that restaurant meals, transportation, and happiness in a cup (coffee) from a shop can all add up quickly. If you’d like to make changes to save extra money, it is possible with some work and dedication. You’ve got this!