1. Get a piggy bank
These aren’t just for kids! It's worth saving any loose change you can spare, which can add up and give you a psychological boost. Or, you can open a savings account with £1 and add to it when you can. It will grow with interest.
2. Get cashback
Cashback sites and some bank accounts pay you a cash reward when you buy goods or financial products online. Banks, including Santander, Monzo, and Chase, and websites Quidco, Rakuten and Top Cashback offer a percentage of cashback on goods and services.
3. Round-up spending
By rounding-up your purchases to the nearest pound, many banks and building societies give you the option of saving the change for you. So if you spend £10.50 - it will round up to £11 and put 50p in your savings. The idea is to squirrel away small amounts of cash regularly, and watch it grow.
4. Find a promo code
When shopping online, search for promo codes. Sometimes, you may have to sign up to a newsletter in exchange for a percentage off your next order.
5. Never auto-renew bills
You may not (in fact, probably won’t) get the best deal if you are just auto renewing all your bills. Shop around on comparison sites and ask your current provider if they can do a better deal. Any savings you make could go into a saving account.
6. Cut fuel costs
Making small changes to your driving can also help reduce fuel costs. Mechanical advice includes: accelerating gradually; removing any excess weight from the car; and checking the pressure of your tyres regularly to make sure they are correct. Look for the best fuel prices in your area using an app such as the myRAC mobile app.
7. Ask for help
Depending on your situation, you may be able to minimise the amount of interest you pay on your debts - such as a personal loan, credit card, overdraft or mortgage – and reduce your monthly repayments. You may also be entitled to additional benefits, check online: gov.uk/browse/benefits
If you’re really struggling financially, visit Turn 2 Us, a national charity who can provide practical help.
Photos: Flavia Morlachetti/Moment, Boschetto Photography/E+/Getty Images
