Save Money by Cutting Back During Lent

EATING OUT

Eating out is a major expense for many people. Cutting back on restaurant meals during Lent can save you a significant amount of money. Instead, you can prepare meals at home and have leftovers for lunch. You can also look for affordable recipes online and experiment with new dishes. This can not only save you money but also help you develop your cooking skills.

EXPENSIVE COFFEES 

If you are someone who loves to buy expensive coffees, now is a good time to cut back. A daily latte or cappuccino can cost you hundreds of pounds over the course of a year. Instead, try making coffee at home and experiment with different brewing methods. You can also switch to a cheaper brand of coffee or try making your own syrups to add flavour.

ALCOHOL

Giving up alcohol can be beneficial for your health and your wallet. Alcohol is expensive, and cutting back on it can save you money. You can also use this time to explore other non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water or mocktails.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

Subscription services like Netflix, Disneyplus, and Amazon Prime can add up quickly. Cutting back on these services can save you money. You can also explore free alternatives like YouTube, borrow DVDs from your local library or do a DVD swap with friends and family.

ONLINE SHOPPING

Online shopping can be convenient, but it can also lead to overspending. Why not try to avoid online shopping altogether or limit yourself to necessary purchases only. You can also use this time to declutter your home and sell unwanted items online to make some extra cash.

FAST FASHION

Fast fashion is cheap, but it can also be harmful to the environment and your wallet. Why not avoid buying clothes from fast-fashion brands and instead invest in high-quality, sustainable clothing. You can also explore second-hand shops or clothing swaps to find unique pieces at a fraction of the cost.

CAR USAGE

Driving a car can be expensive, especially when you factor in petrol, maintenance, and parking fees. Consider giving up your car for a while and instead try walking, cycling, or taking public transport. Not only will this save you money, but it can also be good for your health and the environment.

EXPENSIVE BEAUTY PRODUCTS 

Beauty products can be expensive, and many people spend a significant amount of money on them each month. Consider giving up expensive beauty products and instead opt for more affordable alternatives. You can also experiment with natural or homemade beauty products, which can be both cost-effective and good for your skin.

GYM MEMBERSHIPS

If you have a gym membership that you hardly use, consider cancelling it during Lent. Instead, try working out at home or doing outdoor activities like running, hiking, or cycling. You can also find free workout videos online or try fitness apps that offer a free trial period.

CABLE / SATELLITE TV

Cable and satellite TV can be expensive, and you may be paying for channels that you rarely watch. During Lent, consider cancelling your cable subscription and opting for streaming services instead that offer a wider range of content at a lower cost. You can also try renting DVDs from your local library or borrowing them from friends.

BRAND NAME PRODUCTS

Brand name products can be more expensive than generic or own-brand items, but they may not necessarily be better quality. Trying generic or own-brand products instead of brand name items could save you lots of money. You can also compare prices at different shops and take advantage of sales and discounts to save money.

CARRYING CASH

Carrying cash instead of using your credit or debit card can help you become more mindful about your spending habits and stick to a budget. During Lent, try withdrawing a fixed amount of cash for your weekly expenses and avoiding using your cards as much as possible. This can help you limit your spending and become more conscious about where your money is going.

UNNECESSARY AND IMPULSE PURCHASES

Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you really need it or if it will add value to your life. If the answer is no, consider leaving it. You could also try thinking about it overnight, for a few days, or waiting to see if it goes on sale. Impulse purchases can be a major drain on your finances, so try to practice mindfulness when it comes to your spending habits.

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