The Best Ways to Get the Things You Want for Less Money

While many of us know how important it is to save our money and to keep some packed away for a rainy day, that doesn't stop us from wanting things and from feeling the need to make the occasional purchase. Of course if we stuck rigidly to a budget that let no room for whimsy then we could quickly save up quite a sum of money, but what would be the point? If you don't enjoy your money at all, then what is the point of having it? And wouldn't it make life rather miserable? (Which is not to say there aren't ways you can have fun for free...). 

This is a fine line to walk, and for many it can be tricky deciding how much of their income they are going to spend on things they don't need and how much they are going to put away. One of the best ways to compromise though is to get the things you want for less. That doesn't mean buying alternatives that you don't want as much either - I mean actually buying the very same things for less money. This way you can still enjoy your money and the things you love, but you won't be spending excessive amounts or more than necessary. Here I will share with you some of the best ways you can get the things you want right now without spending as much money. 

Shop Around

This is the most obvious and straight forward way to get things for less, and even if you're buying something brand new that's only been out a few days you will normally find variation in the price if you shop around. The best place to look of course is online, and if you browse the web you'll find lots of great online stores that offer the same things for less money. Of course if you can find a deal then that's even better. 

Wait

The other 'obvious' way to get your items for less is to simply wait a while until they come down in price. You may struggle to do this if you really want the item - but try just making a pact with yourself to make the purchase on X date. This way you know it's coming so you'll find it easier to wait.

If you're someone who doesn't need to get everything brand new then you can also wait until you find the items second hand - often there will be no noticeable difference. Ex-Display items are also another very good way to get your items for less as are refurbished models and ones with light imperfections. 

Use Cashback Sites

Cashback sites are sites that pays you for shopping. Basically you buy online, but you do so by following a link on the cashback site which means that the site then gets some commission for referring you as a customer - commission which they share with you. It takes a while to pay out, but you can often get 5-10% back on your larger purchases which is worthwhile. 

Upgrade Regularly

You might think that getting the latest iPhone every time it comes out would be an expensive idea - but it's not really if you keep each model in the best condition possible (use a good case and screen protector) and then sell it in order to buy the new one. This way you'll be spending about $150 every 18 months or so and you'll constantly have the latest gadgets. Likewise you can also get money off by trading in your cars, films, games and pretty much anything else where hygiene isn't an issue.

And speaking of trading you can also get new things by trading with your friends. Two of you want to play two new games? Then why not just buy one each then swap?

Rent

In some cases you don't even necessarily have to buy the item you want. For instance, if you want to drive a brand new car that you can't afford you can do so by just renting the vehicle. This way you may be able to afford something you otherwise couldn't and you'll also find that things like MOTs are taken care of for you. Find out if car hire is right for you here: http://financialplan.about.com/od/personalfinance/a/Should-You-Lease-Or-Buy-Your-Next-Car.htm 

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk is always a great way to save money because it means more guaranteed profit for the dealers. If you only want one item then, consider doing a 'group buy' and then splitting the cost among friends to take advantage of the savings. You can even find people online willing to go in with you if the item you want is a little more 'niche'. For things that you actually use in bulk though - just stock up!

Author Bio: Nick Dunin likes to blog about finance related issues. He provides help on acquiring the loan that is most correct for you and your requirements through http://www.debtconsolidation.com.au.

7 Ways to Stay on Top of Your Savings

As the economic climate continues to look bleak it is important to stay on top of your finances. As well as staying on top of your savings, you also need to cut down your outgoings and identify ways in which you could do so. From looking at your receipts to the latest apps, we look at ways you can stay on top of your finances in 2013. 

1 – Simplify Your Finances 

It is a good idea to consolidate all your debt onto one credit card and also try to shop around for the best rates you can get on your savings and current account. The less organizations you have to deal with, the easier it will seem to focus on your finances. 

2 – Use Apps 

With a huge range available on smartphones, tablets and computers, finance apps are a great way of tracking your expenses and allow you to work out budgets efficiently. Many of these apps also let you sync up different account. 

3 – Online Banking 

With online banking at your fingertips  it provides a great way for you to stay on top of your finances. It also allows you to set up direct debits that can be a great way to ensure you meet financial deadlines in the future. 

4 – Analyse Your Budget 

As many finance guest posts state - Separate your budget down into sub sections such as bills, food and luxuries. Doing so will allow you to see where you could be spending less, ultimately helping save you money for the future. 

5 – Keep Receipts 

Keep all your receipts together in manageable folders or even scan them onto your computer. In doing so, you can ensure you are not wasting money and it allows you to break down your finances further. 

6 – Direct Debits 

Setting up direct debits via online banking couldn't be much easier and it is a great way of ensuring you meet payment deadlines on time and avoid penalties. 

7 – Loans 

Look out for loans that may be suitable to your situation, whether it is payday loans, loans for bad credit or guarantor loans. It is important to ensure you shop around for the best deals to ensure you don't get ripped off. 

Author Bio: Luke writes about finance, from extreme money saving to the latest news in the industry. In his spare time he enjoys helping others, you can find him on Google +.