Autumn is here. With the changing season comes new expenses, including increased utility bills, school programs for the kids and upcoming holiday purchases. These costs don’t have to wreak havoc on your bank account. Here are five easy ways to fall into savings this season.
Weatherproof your home. Before the temperatures drop, consider weatherproofing your home. Using weatherstripping on windows and doors can lower heating costs, and cleaning your gutters will help drainage and prevent any future problems. You’ll get a season’s worth of savings and peace of mind by taking a few steps in the fall to get your home ready for cold weather.
Cook at home. Stop spending money on dining out with friends, because let’s face it, eating out gets expensive. Plus, as the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, why not stay in and be cozy with friends and family? Make it an outing by going to your local farmers market together. Cooking in season is not only a great way to get a taste of the fall, but it’s also a money saver since fruits and vegetables such as butternut squash, pumpkin, apples, potatoes and carrots are abundant and low priced. Cooking with a crockpot rather than a stove can also save you time and money this season. Hearty soups and stews are delicious meals in cold weather and can last for several meals.
Get out of town. Summer is over, but that doesn’t mean your best trips of the year are behind you. Fall can be the ideal time to get out of town because many airline prices decrease, temperatures cool off and most people stay home — making tourist destinations less crowded. But don’t wait too long! Most of these deals are only available for a short period of time as the holiday travel season approaches. Luggage and travel accessories typically go on sale in the fall season as well, so stock up on the deals.
Save money on automobile costs. When it comes to maintaining your vehicle in cold weather, keeping your oil clean and your tires filled can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs down the road. Fall is the perfect time to have your antifreeze checked, your windshield wiper fluid filled and new wiper blades installed. You can do most — if not all — of these things yourself for very little money and time.
Get crafty. Some of the most beautiful fall décor can be found in nature, and the best part is: It’s free! If you have a couple frames lying around, consider using them to display a leaf in orange, yellow or red. Creating a do-it-yourself festive fall wreath or centerpiece for your front door and dinner table gives your home a warm welcome at a very low cost. Now is also a great time to get a head start on those crafty holiday gifts! Sites like Pinterest have tons of easy ideas to get you inspired.
Move your workout outside. Bathing suit season may be wrapping up, but fall is also a great season to head outdoors for exercise. Why waste money on a gym membership when you can take advantage of the great outdoors? Make a commitment to go for a hike on the weekends, or sign up for a 5K race and train for it by running outside.
Save on entertainment. Find new and fun ways to spend time with those you love. Parks are a great place to go in the fall. They are usually free and offer many great family-friendly amusements. Between Oktoberfest, Halloween, pumpkin patches and other fall festivities, there are bound to be free things to do with your family in your area.
Each season has its perks, but none are quite like the fall. Follow these easy tips to save money, and experience everything the season has to offer.
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7 Ways to Fall Into Savings This Season originally appeared on usnews.com
