Budget Busters – Things We Do Not Spend Money On

When it comes to budgeting there are a ton of ways to save money and there are just some budget busters that you can skip altogether to save big bucks (when added up over the course of a year).  Our list of budget busters – things we just don’t budget for because we don’t do them – is below.

Things We Do Not Spend Money On

Books – When you know how to find free books at Amazon to add to your digital collection you don’t need to buy them!  Add a library membership to your wallet and you don’t need to buy books (which will be outdated in a few years anyway).

Coffee – Expensive and specialty coffees seriously add up over time.  We don’t need to spend money on a crazy habit like daily coffees.  It helps that I am allergic to coffee (true story) and my husband drinks it on occasion only.

Cable TV/Satellite – There are a billion tv channels and no matter how many you have, nothing good is on any of them.  Instead of paying a bajillion dollars on cable tv/satellite use your dollars for Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, and Redbox.  For the occasional sports game that you need to see live, head to a local sports bar.  See if your local library has a digital service for movies (and books too).

Car Washes – When you wash your car at home you are saving money on the car wash and potentially the tip as well.  All you need is a bucket, sponge, and a little bit of soap.  It’s good to be outside and great to have a sparkly clean car.  (I admit, when there is a ton of pollen on my car…I do take it to the car wash then.  I am allergic to almost all the trees in Georgia, and I try not to touch carloads of it).

Dry Cleaning – If you have an iron chances are high that you do not need to have your clothes dry cleaned.  A little bit of reading and Wool-Lite and your clothes will turn out great.  If you want to feel like your clothes have been dry cleaned buy a can of starch.  We have a fabric steamer that works GREAT and has taken the place of ironing for the past year.

Oil Changes – Whenever an oil change occurs it seems like the workers find at least one other issue with your car, despite your records that show you just changed *that* nine months ago.  Doing your oil changes at home really is cheaper than taking your car in.  Several auto parts stores will dispose of your used oil for free.  Always check your favorite cash back shopping apps to see if there is a rebate for your oil or oil filter (ours pops up on Ibotta from time to time).

Parking – Paying for parking astounds me. There are often really great parking lots within an incredibly short walking distance.  If you have to walk a few extra steps, chances are that your body will not yell at you. Walk to save those dollars.  Or drive around and find a cheaper parking lot if you absolutely have to pay for parking.

Warranties – Cashiers and cash registers at the stores really want you to purchase the extended warranty.  Just yesterday we were prompted to buy a 2-year warranty on a $10 item.  REALLY?  That’s just crazy talk.  We pay with our AmEx card for all electronics, which extends the warranty for free.  Often you can find an aftermarket warranty for much cheaper.  For electronic devices try SquareTrade.

Which categories have you found to be budget breakers in your house?

Check out these Ways I Save for more budgeting inspiration.

 If you love saving money, and who doesn’t, check out these deals and freebies that will save you even more!  Be sure to subscribe to Coupons Are Great so you don’t miss out on great deals, fun freebies, crafts, and more.