Prepare in advance: “I use gas stove and open fire to cook and also precook meals then freeze them in batches.Cook instead of buy: Another saving hack was cooking food at home instead of purchasing take outs with one respondent saying: “I always bring in a home cooked lunch to work instead of buying takeaways.Piggy bank: Many survey respondents noted that they collect any loose, small change and then bank that change often to avoid spending it.“This way, I’m able to prioritise the most important things, enjoy a few of what I consider “luxuries” and still save 20% of my income.” A survey respondent suggested the 50-30-20 principle where she divides her income in three categories – needs, wants and savings. If you do have some money left over every month but believe you should be saving more, draw up a budget to stick to. If your expenses are more than your income, then you need to begin planning how you are going to reduce them. Budget and stick to it: List your fixed expenditures and other monthly deductions and then tally these up against your income.Another tip offered was to buy fresh produce late afternoon just before closing time as they are cheaper. By buying more, at a lower price, you’ll be able to stretch your rand and shrink your monthly shopping bill. Stockpile: You can save thousands every month by looking out for and taking advantage of discounts and specials.Make sure to contact your short-term insurance provider to check the terms and conditions of your contract. Insurance will cover lift-club cars as long as the activity of giving lifts to people is not a source of income to the insured, for example, an airport shuttle service. The cost of petrol aside, keep in mind that there are insurance implications if you do choose to use your own car to ferry fee-paying passengers. Car-pool: 36% of respondents are currently car-pooling to and from work to ease the petrol price burden.The survey respondents shared some hacks to help other South Africans make saving money, possible: What’s clear is that saving money is not necessarily dependent on income but rather, on resolve and discipline. Those who are not able to save money blame the rapid rise in the cost of essentials (40%), unplanned emergencies (13%) and family obligations (12%).

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