Money Saving Tips for Busy Moms

I am not a mom but many of my friends are. Like them, I am always on the lookout for money saving tips. It is so easy to lose track of your finances. I find that if I pay with cash or use my debit card, I can forget and when the statement comes in, I have gone over my budget. Sometimes, I need a little help to be ready for those times. Holding onto your cash and using the right credit card is essential.

Here are a few tips for busy moms or anyone!

Make a shopping list each week

Whether you need diaper, toiletries, groceries, why not write everything down? This will give you a good idea of how much you need to spend and help you to work out a sensible budget for the week. A well-thought out list should also stop you from buying the same things twice and could prevent impulse purchases – so long as you’re disciplined.

Look for bargains and deals

Moms, you know children grow fast. They don’t stay in the same clothes for long, so it’s wise to keep their wardrobe inexpensive and simple. To do this, look for deals and bargains online or buy everything you need from friends, relatives, thrift stores or yard sales.

Make the most of apps

Are you getting the most for your money? If you’re not sure, there are many smartphone apps out there to help you out! While Groupon gives users a price break on everything from laser hair removal to weekend breaks away, RedLaser reveals the best place to buy an item after reading its barcode. Apps such as Money Smart, Money Lover, Bill Assistant and Account Tracker will also help you budget across the week and keep an eye on your finances while on the go!

Have low-cost fun with your kids

These days, many families spend a fortune eating out, going to the movies or doing other expensive activities, but you shouldn’t have to max out your bank account or make a credit card application just to supplement your fun. There are plenty of things you can do that won’t cost a lot, so why not go for bike rides, take the kids to the park or try your hand at arts and crafts? You could even cook together, play games or enjoy a night of DVDs, as all these things are relatively kind on your pocket.

These are great tips. I always make a shopping list. If I don't, I find I have 10 cans of tomatoes and 7 boxes of pasta. My friends always find things to do for free around their neighborhood. Check out the local paper for ideas. We all need to be aware of where our money goes.