Saving Money

I am always looking for ways to save money as well as make money. My budget has been a bit tight lately since I stopped working and taking care of baby Brandon. As any parent would understand, diapers and formula are expensive. Mainly, I collect and redeem coupons. Here are some other ways I do to save money:

1) Coupons: I use them whenever I can. Oh, I recommend checking out SmartCanucks.ca forums to see other people’s coupons they are trading. (eg. Pampers, Huggies, baby food, etc.). Also, pick up a copy of the Entertainment Book. You'll find a lot of savings.

2) eBay: Depending on what I am looking to buy what I need, I occasionally browse eBay for deals. I’m pretty good at finding stuff that is cheaper than buying locally, even with the shipping added. Just have to remember to review the seller’s liability and watch out for brokerage fees if you are spending a high amount from outside Canada.

3) Local Classifieds: Sometimes I go online to browse local classified listings such as CraigsList or Kijiji. You might find some good deals if you are lucky. Also sell stuff that you don’t need nor use; someone else might find it useful to them. If it doesn’t sell, I’d just donate it or ask if any of my friends want it.

4) Trading: You might find someone who can trade your stuff for their stuff. I’ve had some success so far with item trades via CraigsList. It’s a good way to get rid of stuff that you don’t need, and at the same time get what you want. So far I’ve traded baby formula for a different brand and baby stuff for other baby stuff.

5) Clubs: Joining store clubs and newsletters (eg. Starbucks, Boston Pizza, Dairy Queen, Quiznos, NCIX, Toys-R-Us, Future Shop, etc.) can get you little perks/coupons and promos in your email. FuturaRewards.ca is another good one I recommend where members can earn cash rewards.