5 Smart Ways To Increase Your Savings (without even trying!)

You might think that in these times of rising gas prices and that ugly phrase "down economy" it is next to impossible to save money.

I've come up with 5 simple and smart ways to save a little bit of cash and hardly feel it.  Over a year's time these savings can really add up!

1) Garage Sales - Look, everyone loves a good bargain these days.  Garage and yard sales are more popular than ever!  You can easily make $100 or more in just one day.  Plus you will be getting rid of all the clutter you've collected in the basement and/or garage.  Don't forget to advertise your sale on sites like Craigslist and Gee Sale-er (which has it's own Smart Phone App by the way).

2)  Pack a lunch - How often do you go out to lunch?  Did you know that the average person spends $7 per day on lunch?  Brown bagging it can cost as little as $2 per day. Try this handy Lunch Savings Calculator to see the tremendous savings impact of packing a lunch everyday!

3) Use the Library - Stop purchasing books, DVD's and even Video Games!  The library is free so go get a library card and start taking advantage of all the Public Library has to offer.  Many libraries also offer quiet spaces with free Wi-Fi to actually get things done away from the home or office.

4) Ask for Discounts - From buying airline tickets to paying a medical bill, always ask if there's a discount to be had. The worst that can happen is you'll be told no.

5) Watch Those Utilities - Changing over to energy saving light bulbs and low flow showerheads is a great start. Also, most utility companies offer a home audit you can complete online.

There are several other ways you can put a little money aside each week.  Add it up over a year’s time and the money you save can perhaps be used during the holidays for gifts or that family vacation you thought you never could afford.

The trick is to take the money you save, put it in the bank and don't touch it until you need it.