(for Riverside/San Bernardino Counties)

Beware of Spending More Money Than You Should on These 6 Things This Summer

beware of spending more money than you shouldWant to cut some unnecessary spending from your budget this summer? There are several small things that we purchase on almost a daily basis that can really add up to big money in the long run. Most people don’t put much thought into purchases that seem normal and necessary. You can save a lot of money every month if you are careful and avoid spending too much money on such things.

Following are 6 things that you should avoid spending too much money on this summer:

1. Utility Bills

The use of electricity significantly increases in the summer months as you need a 24/7 cool environment in your home. However, you don’t need to keep your air conditioner on all the time to achieve that as it will only result in increased electricity cost. Furthermore, you should make a habit of turning the lights off when you leave the room. It is also recommended to do a quick nightly utility sweep before you go to bed to make sure that all your unnecessary appliances and electronic devices are turned off. By doing this, you will see a significant cut in your utility bills.

2. Groceries

You can save money on groceries with proper meal planning. Packaged foods are usually overpriced and true healthy and natural foods can be acquired at a fraction of the price. That’s why it is recommended that you avoid spending money on packaged foods, instead choose off brands or generic products whenever possible.

3. Energy Drinks

The use of energy drinks increases in the summer season. You can avoid spending more money than you should on energy drinks this summer by taking advantage of coupons and discounts. It is recommended that you look for coupons online before buying the drink. You can find stores in your area that sell these drinks at a discounted price if you buy them in bulk. Also, avoid the desire to pick up energy drinks at a gas station because they are usually sold at higher prices there.

4. Premium Gas

Premium gas is not necessary so don’t pay high prices for it. The fact is, premium gas will not improve your vehicle’s performance in most cases. High octane gas only exists for vehicles that have higher compression ratios e.g. luxury sports cars. Such vehicles require the relatively expensive premium gas. Most cars on the other hand, get no benefits from it. So, regular is the best option for your car and your budget unless your car’s manufacturer mandates high-octane gasoline.

5. Magazine Subscriptions

Magazine subscriptions are expensive, particularly in the long run. So, if you can live without those subscriptions, then cancel them right now. However, if you cannot live without them, then don’t pay newsstand prices for any of your favorite magazines. Look for discount deals on sites like LivingSocial or Groupon.

6. Coffee

Grabbing a cup of coffee every day from a coffee shop before going to work may seem like an inexpensive thing to do, but it makes for a substantial expenditure when it is added up. You can save money by brewing your own coffee at home. It is more cost efficient to make your coffee at home than buying it every day from the coffee shop.

The Travis Law Firm provides professional legal representation for Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 bankruptcy services for residents of all cities in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. We have offices in Riverside, San Bernardino, Victorville, Temecula, Cathedral City and Ontario for the convenience of our Inland Empire, High Desert, and Coachella Valley clients. For more information about our bankruptcy law services and other legal representation, call us today at (951) 274-9501 or (951) 274-9501.