Whether you’re stacking up for a specific purchase or saving for your future, there are many simple ways we can save money. A lot of blogs and Facebook articles that I have seen on this topic are mostly whitewashed and unrealistic for the everyday Millennial like myself, so what I’ve done is made a shortlist of things that I and people I know have done in real life that I guarantee anyone can do!
THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT
If you frequent a restaurant or retailer, chances are you can save a lot of money by taking advantage of their mobile app. Many stores offer deals like discounts, price matching, free delivery, and in-store pickup on their apps. Two of my favorite shopping options are price matching and in-store pickup, because you get the online price without waiting for it to ship to you! Using your mobile app to order at your favorite places like McDonald’s and Starbucks is a good way to get daily deals and be rewarded for frequent purchases.
PREPARE YOUR OWN MEALS
Duh, right? I know. “I can’t cook!” is no longer an excuse because there are literally videos on Youtube that can teach how you to cook anything! Preparing your own meals is about trial and error, about finding your own taste and formula. You’ll save a ton of money and cooking is great therapy, whether you’re bonding or spending alone time. There’s one Korean chef that my GF constantly watches on youtube that has me convinced that we could run a food truck in Koreatown. My point is, its easy AF!
BUY IN BULK
Stop running to the store for single items every time they run out, and buy multiples when you can. Not only is it cheaper to buy in bulk, it’s also a time saver!
DISCOUNT & THRIFT STORES
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard “I thrifted it!” in response to a compliment on a piece of clothing. It’s part of our culture as Millenials and creatives. I love thrifting, but it can be hit or miss depending on what I’m looking for. If you want to easily decorate your home or add to your wardrobe without going broke, head to a discount store like Marshalls or Homegoods. I love Macy’s, but when I don’t want to spend ‘Macy’s money’ I go to TJ Maxx and try to find the same thing for half the price. If you really need a fit for the low low then i suggest going to Crossroads or Plato’s closet for gently-worn name brand and designer.
MAXIMIZE YOUR SPARE TIME
Generating passive income is never a bad idea. If you have a car, you can ride-share on Lyft (f*** Uber!) to make some easy cash. Postmates is always looking for people to deliver in the cities that offer the service – and you can choose whether you want to deliver by car, bike, or foot on the app! Selling used/unwanted items on sites like eBay and Poshmark is something I’ve always done to unload things I no longer want/need. Whether you have something you want to sell, or have a service to offer, the internet has given us easy-to-use platforms to make that happen!
Photos: Troy Browder, https://www.pexels.com/
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