15 simple ways to save money every day

Whether you're planning for a wedding, a big buy or are just trying to get more fiscally responsible, going on a budget means making several big and small lifestyle changes. Here are 15 things you can do to save some money every day, and before you know it, you'll be well on your way to a healthier bank balance.

1. Money date with yourself

Set aside time each week to plan the next week's expenses, set a budget and evaluate how you did the last week. Just because you've decided to live a more frugal lifestyle doesn't mean you're going to take to it instantly. Give yourself time to adjust and be vigilant about your expenses.

2. Use a budget-tracking app

Small, hidden and impulse expenses tend to pile up and make a significant dent in your budget without you realising it until it's too late. A budget tracking app will keep telling you when you're falling off the wagon.

3. Upcycle and recycle, before buying

Repurpose old stuff and ask friends if they're throwing away what you might be in need of before buying something.

4. Sleep on it before you click on "buy"

If it still feels like something you "must" have in the morning, only then buy it.

5. DIY beauty treatments

Pinterest and Youtube are your best friends for this. You'll end up learning new skills and save a ton of money.

6. Potlucks instead of restaurants with friends
Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean your social life has to suffer. Call friends over for a potluck to cut out the cost of eating out. Plus, home-cooked is always healthier.

7. Make creative gifts and wrappers
Who doesn't love personalised cards and stationery? No more online buying of generic last-minute gifts.

8. Quality, not quantity
For your long-term use essentials, buy quality stuff even if it's more expensive. Not having to pay for repairs or replacements will save you good money in the long term.

9. Car-pool whenever possible
Or better still, walk short distances!

10. Turn off the electricity
Be careful about not leaving fans, lights, laptops, ACs on while not in use. And don't immediately turn on the AC when you get home. Switch on the fan and sit under it, you might realise you didn't even need the AC in the first place.

11. Get rid of your useless subscriptions
Almost everything is available for free online, right from cable shows to magazines to newspapers. Get rid of what you're not using.

12. Quit smoking!
You'll save money and your lungs will thank you for it.

13. Pre-drink and cut down on drinking
Drink at home before heading to a club or a concert, it'll cost you a fraction of what you'd otherwise end up spending through the night.

14. Go to local shops, instead of malls and chain stores
They're cheaper and you can bargain for a discount.

15. Carry a bottle of water
The environment will thank you for not buying bottle after bottle of plastic packaged water and you'll save a lot of change through the day.