Saving Money & A Social Life

Many money saving tips and guides will tell you, when you are trying to save money "just stay home". That's fine and good until they tell you to cut the cable, don't fill the pool or purchase anything that could be remotely fun at home. Yes, you could save money sitting your whole family down on the living room floor and stare at each other all night but that's not my idea of fun. I've come up with some tips below that will help you save money and get you out of the house.

- Could you walk to your destination? This would save you gas, money and give you a little extra activity.

- Could you do it locally? Oh yes, Disney World is great and fun BUT is there a amusement park locally. Going locally would mean cutting out the long trip, gas, hotels and so on.

- Have you researched your area online? Many of us don't know what's happening in our own town! There are plenty of theater clubs, comedy clubs, church events and things going on right in your own town. Get on your Chamber Of Commerce or hometown website. You might be suprised.

- Don't want to take the kids out? No problem. A lot of other people don't either. Start a babysitting group. One couple can watch the children and others can go out or something. Doesn't mean you all have to go together. Just means everyone takes turns babysitting and no one has to pay.

- Have friends? Invite them over for a fun theme night. Everyone can bring a dish according to the theme.

- Have kids? Take them to the park. They are sure to burn off energy. You might even get a laugh or two.

- No time on weekends? No problem. Places often run 2 for 1 specials or something like that to bring people in during the week. Look at the local paper or visit your hometown website for that information

- Bars still have Happy Hour. Enjoy a drink and often a good dinner for a little less. If you want another drink and it's getting close to the end of Happy Hour, order it instead of waiting until your ready.

- Want to go out but no friends? Join Dart League or sign up for a horse ride. Get active in the things you enjoy and the friends will find you.

- Watch for coupons in the local paper. Many times local papers have local coupons during the week. Keep an eye out for those.

- Write a review! If the establishment is new or reopened. Tell them you would like to write a review. Often they will give you a tour and samples for free. Call the newspaper ahead of time and let them know you might be submitting. Who knows, sometimes they are looking for reviews. Worth a try for a couple hours of free fun.

- Visit flower gardens and other outdoor, seasonal attractions. Again there is often a lot going on locally, you might not need to drive much or at all for a day of fun.

Really keep your eyes and ears open to what is going on. Listen to what people are doing around you. Sure not all of that will fit your budget but get creative and make your own version of it. Watch for coupons and sales. Get your friends involved in saving money, maybe take turns hosting get togethers. Saving money does not mean sitting at home, starring at each other. Get out there, have some fun. Remember, the best things in life are truly free.

If you still think you have to leave your town, just to have fun. Get online, look for the deals. My biggest tip for travel is to do it on the "off season". When you get where you are going ask for coupons, ask for deals. People want your business.