We know that this has been a difficult year for everyone, especially those that rely on activities outside of the home for entertainment. Date nights at restaurants, family nights at the movie theater, and trips to concerts have been off the table and unfortunately it may be awhile longer until they can be safe again.
Although not having access to these activities might seem like it can save you money, it can be easy to fall into over-spending out of boredom. Try these strategies for saving money this spring that will keep you healthy and entertained without breaking the bank.
Grow Your Wealth
While money doesn’t grow on trees, you can absolutely save money by starting a garden—and you’ll likely reap emotional benefits as well. Tending to plants is a family friendly activity that can give you a sense of purpose, keep you occupied during ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns, and give some aesthetic beauty to your home.
Grow vegetables, fruits, or herbs that you might normally purchase from the grocery store in order to save some cash. Herbs like chamomile, lavender, and mint cost very little to grow and can be sold as grown plants or just cuttings and sprigs. You can sell plants of all kinds online through places like Craigslist and Facebook marketplace to make some extra cash, bringing new meaning to the idea of making something from nothing!
Flex Your DIY Skills
Making DIY versions of some go-to items like beauty products, cleaning supplies, and even pantry favorites can be fun and frugal.
Things like body scrubs and lotions are easy to make—you’ll save money skipping the brands and the packaging, and you can personalize them with your own scents, colors, and favorite ingredients. DIYS.com has some great examples to get you started.
It’s also easy to make your own cleaning supplies with common household ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, salt, and water. You can even make your own laundry detergent! Here are some detailed directions on how to make a homemade detergent that is non-toxic, fit for high efficiency washers, and safe for septic tanks. They even include a cost-savings breakdown between common store-bought laundry detergents and the homemade version.
Do Some Spring Cleaning
Everyone’s heard of spring cleaning, and it might seem like a no brainer, but you may be tempted to skip it if you’re having less people over due to COVID-19 restrictions. A deep cleaning of your space not only can help clear your mind, but it can also help clear your urge to shop.
Taking stock of what you already have can lower your urges to purchase more items, and it can also inspire you to clear out some of that stuff you completely forgot you had because you never use it.
You can make some extra money selling old clothing on places like Ebay or Poshmark, and you can sell old items on Craigslist or Facebook marketplace. A socially distanced garage sale might even turn out to be a fun spring activity!
Take Advantage of Free Stuff
Many businesses are offering activities and services online and at lower costs to make them more accessible to the general public. This includes free recordings and livestreams of concerts, video tours of zoos and aquariums, and free or reduced cost exercise classes held online.
Keep an eye out for businesses offering perks to stay afloat during the pandemic as well as good deals offered to support those affected by COVID-19. For instance, due to an increased need for blood donations, the American Red Cross is offering a free COVID-19 antibodies test and a $5 Amazon gift card when you donate blood.
And of course, don’t forget about your classic neighborhood library, where you can always borrow books, movies, CD’s, and even games free of charge! Libraries have made this much easier with online ordering, pickup windows, and even instant e-book downloads.
If you need help with debt collectors or reducing your debt entirely, PCS Debt Relief can help with debt relief services that are tailored to your needs. We understand the burdens and stress that debt creates, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Call (636) 209-4481 for a free consultation to start working towards financial stability.
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