We’ve got plenty of tips to help you u to save money in Harrogate.

1. 1. Go through all your unwanted items (clothes, toys, gadgets, etc) at home and sell them on EBay, Gumtree, car boot or local Harrogate Facebook buy & sell groups

   2. If you need any new books or gadgets, why not go to those websites for second hand ones?  Another one to try is freecycle, there is one specific to Harrogate.  Don't forget all the charity shops too.

   3. Put all the money you have for spending in an envelope each month.  Pay for everything in cash. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. That way you know you are not overspending and getting in debt, this is a great way to save money.

   4. Pay off debts first as the interest is costly, this is by far the best tip for saving money

   5. Aim to save at least 20% of your earnings a month, start putting away a little at a time and gradually work up to this.  You’d be surprised how much money you can save.  You can then treat yourself to that holiday you’ve been wanting or that new computer or whatever it is you wanted/needed.

   6. Wait 24 hours before purchasing something expensive and get at least 3 quotes.

   7. Impulse buyer?  As yourself if you really need the item.  Create a list and wait 30 days before you buy it.  You may find you don’t need it after all. Aim to buy local in Harrogate to help the local economy.

   8. Buy groceries from the market or somewhere like Lidl or Aldi.  Knaresborough has a great market on a Wednesday and Harrogate has a great farmer’s market.

   9. Reduce the amount of meat you eat, it’s healthier and beans are a great substitute.

   10. Eat something before you go shopping and try do 1 shop every two weeks, only shopping for items that are on your list. That way you can avoid the temptation of impulse buying.

   11. Make sure you make your food stretch by making a meal plan and using leftovers for more meals.  For example, you can have a roast chicken meal one day and use the leftover cuts of meat for a curry.  If you cook large amounts of a meal, you can put some in the freezer for another day.

   12. Turn off all your plugs, even the TV, don’t leave it on standby. 

   13. Make your own cleaning products out of vinegar, baking soda, bleach and lemon.  There are plenty of useful recipes on the internet.  E-cloths are amazing.

   14. When your house, car and other insurances are coming up for renewal, always get new quotes!  On that note, have you compared prices on utility companies?

   15. Instead of going out for meals, invite friends over and everyone can bring a dish.

   16. Instead of paying for a gym membership, why not go for a walk or a run or cycling?

   17. Look at our website, there are several places you can take the kids in Harrogate that don’t cost a thing, which will also help you save money.  Kids love a good picnic by the river or a play in the park.

Image courtesy of Flickr