BUDGETING HACKS TO SURVIVE THE FUEL HIKES

The soaring petrol price makes it more expensive to get around, but also pushes up the cost of living. Can you cut even more expenses to get by? Here are some suggestions.

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Trimming expenses starts with looking at what you pay and where you buy. Keep a list of every cent spent for at least a week and you’ll get a clearer picture of where there’s waste. As for where you buy, compare prices. Is your usual supermarket still the cheapest? Is your car insurance still the best deal around?

GETTING AROUND
The faster you go, the more fuel you burn. Don’t speed, and avoid revving or making a hard break. Drag on the car adds to fuel consumption. Experts suggest opening the windows for a speed of up to 80 km/h and using the air con or the fan for higher speeds. Planning trips so you don’t have to do extra runs will also make a big difference. For nearby destinations, consider walking.

A regular service is essential. Keeping the air filter clean improves consumption, acceleration and engine life. A loose petrol cap means fuel is evaporating.

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FOOD SHOPPING
Buying bulk can save money, but first compare the price of the big box with the total for two smaller ones. Go for shop brands and opt for frozen veg and canned goods. Packing lunch for work will save you tons and help you to eat more healthily.



DITCH THE DEBT
Look at three months of bank statements and add up the charges. Can you avoid some of them? If another bank’s fees are consistently lower, consider switching.

Paying “just” a small amount every month for two years may look like a bargain, but instalment options make anything more expensive. Rather save for what you want.

SWITCH IT OFF
Is turning the geyser on and off a good thing? Stellenbosch University has answered this old trick question. They suggest heating the water for two hours and switching it off just before a bath or shower. In larger households, this could save up to 12% on your electric bill.

A stove is one of the heaviest users of electricity. Match pots and pans to stovetop plates of equal size. A small pot on a large plate means heat is escaping.

Boiling a full kettle is a waste. Do one cup at a time if that’s all you need.

Related article: 5 easy ways to cut back costs even on a tight budget

USE LESS LIGHT
Remember to switch of the lights in empty rooms. Also try compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). They cost more, but last longer, use less energy and emit more light. A 22W CFL is as bright as a regular 100W bulb. You could save up to 80% with the right lights.

AIRTIME AND DATA
Decide how much airtime and data you can afford per month and get it in one go. When buying a bit at a time, you’ll easily lose track of your spending. Use text chatting and WhatsApp calls whenever you can.

DRINK LESS
The World Health Organization has found that more alcohol is consumed in South Africa than anywhere else on the continent. Cut back for your pocket and your health.

Above all, don’t despair. Just about everyone you know is struggling at the moment. Keep going and do the budget. It’s a chore, but it pays off.

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