What NOT to Buy
...How to save when you're skint.
Tight on the pennies? Cut these out of your budget. You don't need them. Honest.
Kitchen roll
Yes, I know it’s convenient for a multitude of uses, but my parents managed all through my childhood without it. Why waste money on disposable paper, when you can use a sponge, and re-use it? It all adds up over a year, so you’ll save quite a few pounds in the long run AND get brownie points for being ever so environmentally friendly.
Expensive greetings cards
Over the year it all adds up – birthdays, anniversaries, new home etc. If you’re short of cash, you should be on the look out for buying cards in box sets (works out at around 25p each instead of £1.50 +). Why not make your own? Get some crafty bits from an art shop, or make use of that digital camera and print your own.
Petrol
Cut back on your car journeys – especially those under 2 miles – by digging out your trainers or bike and putting them to good use. You’ll also get some fresh air and get fit, and – who knows- you may even meet some friends and neighbours along the way. Alternatively, you could always phone a friend and see if they’d let you tag along for free. Think green!
Trendy new clothes
Fashion is so fleeting, your new outfit will only look new for a month. (Seen anyone in a poncho lately?) Instead, stick with what you’ve got, borrow from a friend or sibling, or hit the second hand shops. You’ll be amazed at what you might find in a charity shop in an affluent area. If you’re good with a needle and thread, customise your own clothes.
Alcohol
Don’t whine (pun fully intended!) - this is definitely one of those ‘nice-but-not-necessary’ items that you really can live without. If you’re strapped for cash, then you’ll save loads by drinking something less snazzy than Baileys or beer. Your waistline will thank you, too.
Furniture
Don’t buy new when you can get it for free (check out freecycle.org). Otherwise, there’s always Ebay for some decently priced furniture. Just make sure you can have it delivered or that it will fit into your car. Or you could always head down to your nearest Salvation Army ‘Care and Share’ (or similar) store, where you can bag quite a bargain. OK, it may well be a bit worn and naff compared to IKEA, but better to be naff than not in credit!
CDs & DVDs
Sorry – but these are what I label “lovely luxuries” (same goes for cologne and expensive make-up or toiletries). Don’t even go near HMV or your favourite online shop. Just start making a wish list of all the ones you want for birthday and Christmas – you’ll really appreciate them then if you’re not buying them all year round. If you fancy a change, raid someone else’s collection! Try swapping ipods with a friend for a day - you never know what you might discover.
Written by Annie Carter. Posted on 13th February.
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