Issue #71: The Money Hacks You Haven't Thought Of!

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I probably sound like a broken record

but the cost of living is making it HARDER AND HARDER to save a single penny

AGHHHH!

But instead of being totally British and spending anymore of my time complaining about it, let’s actually discuss ways that help me save that little bit extra, and help you guys out too.

Now a heads up, there are no big dramatic cutbacks, but instead really tiny everyday tweaks that can GENUINELY make a world of difference when they add up.

Oh, and they’re actually practical.

let’s dive straight in 👀

1. 🎥 Share Streaming Accounts

If you’ve got a friend, partner, or very chill sibling - split your subscriptions. One person pays for Netflix, the other pays for Disney+ (some platforms are cracking down on this buuuutt it’s still very much doable)

Share the login and the cost. Simple as that really.

2. 🧑‍🎓 Use Student or Graduate Discounts

If you’re lucky enough to still have your student email address or have just graduated recently, then there are SO many discounts you might still be eligible for - even years after you left uni.

And if you don’t have direct access to that, there’s no harm in trying to get that extra 10% off through your younger sibling, cousin or child 🤣

And if that still doesn’t work, no harm doing a quick google search for a discount code before a big purchase…

3. 💰 Use Cashback Apps

Quidco, TopCashback, Airtime Rewards - they’re boring af but they work. If you’re going to spend anyway, you might as well get some of it back ?!?!?

And TRUST ME it adds up over time, you could save an extra couple hundred quid every year!

4. 🔄 Round-Up Savings

Loads of banking apps (Monzo, Chase, Starling, etc.) now let you round up your purchases to the nearest pound and save the difference.

For example, if you buy something for £1.60, the extra 40p goes into savings.

You won’t notice it… until you check and have £100 chilling there 😮‍💨

5. ⏳ Delay Big Purchases

Ok I know that new jacket, air fryer, or food shaped teddy (I can’t remember the name but I’ve seen them all over TikTok) you’ve added to your basket feels like you NEED IT in the moment.

But try leaving it in your basket for 30 days…

If you still want it then, go for it. Most of the time, you’ll forget you even added it and you’ll save the money you would’ve spent on a purchase you don’t really care for.

(sometimes, companies can see you’ve left something in your basket and even drop you an email with a discount code to entice you…)

6. ✈️ Become Your Group’s Planner

Hear me out, but nominate yourself to pay for group stuff like holidays/meals (disclaimer, this comes with the challenge of getting paid back🤣so only do this with trustworthy friends)

By paying for these big purchases, you can be the one to gain points back on your credit card, get cashback and other perks.

Basically, you benefit financially from doing that teeny tiny extra bit of work

7. 🏠 Don’t Move Out Alone

I know the solo flat dream is real, but it’s expensive. The more people you live with, the cheaper your rent, bills, and even groceries are (you’ll share more stuff than you realise).

Even if this means living with strangers for a bit, you can still be selective on your housemates and there are loads of great apps, forums and chats now to buddy up with other people in a similar situation to you!

8. 📲 Track Dumb Expenses

Open your bank app and scroll through your recent spending.

Be honest, how many things made you go, “Wait, what was that again?”

Even just checking once a week/month/year… makes you more conscious.

And awareness = savings 🧠

9. 🐾 Start Small Side Hustles (If You Can)

Guys I don’t mean launching a business empire. I genuinely mean SMALL.

Think babysitting, dog walking, or selling old clothes sat in the back of your wardrobe. Even £100-200 extra a month can be a huge relief.

Something I do and LOVE is looking after people’s pets through websites like Rover!! Looking after a dog and getting paid for it?! WIN

10. 🤖 Automate Your Savings

Start treating your savings like a bill.

If you set up a standing order to move money into your savings the day you get paid, you’re wayyyyy less likely to spend it.

Remember, this doesn’t need to be a lot. Automate £50 the day you get paid every month and this can make all the difference!

^{DISCLAIMER: None of the above is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly education and should not be taken as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and always do your own research.}