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Buy from the source -

Buying directly from local producers is not only a way to save money, but you'll know exactly where your food comes from too. Look for a farmers' market in your area and start consuming local produce.

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Make soup -

Soup is great, and here's why you should be making it more often: it's filling, full of nutrients, and it's cheap.

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Economize in cleaning -

You don't need a lot of expensive cleaning products, nor do you need someone to clean your house for you. Opt for basics such as bleach, baking soda, vinegar, and lemon, and some good old elbow grease!

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Eat at home -

Eating in not only is a great way to spend time with your loved ones, but it's also a lot cheaper than eating out.

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Eat less meat -

Meat wasn't always on the menu, either because it was expensive, or even because of shortages due to economic recessions or even wars. You too can save by reducing your meat consumption.

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Use all your food -

Your grandparents likely used all parts of an animal in cooking. Bones to make stock is a good example. Almost everything can be used or reused.

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Pay with cash -

You will likely think twice when you literally see the money you're spending on certain things. Try it.

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Cook from scratch -

Processed foods were limited in your grandparents' days, so people would cook almost everything from scratch. Needless to say, this is good for both your health and your wallet.

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Swap skills -

Back in your grandparents' days, people would more likely swap talents in their community. Are you great at painting rooms, or cutting hair? Maybe you can lend a hand to someone who's good at something you're not, and vice versa. It's a win-win situation for everybody.

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Learn how to preserve food -

There are many ways to preserve food. Most of us only freeze it, but freezers are a relatively recent thing. Why not learn more about dehydrating, fermenting, and canning food?

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Learn how to sew -

Your grandma wouldn't throw a piece of clothing away because there was a small hole. And neither should you! Learning how to sew can be empowering!

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Grow your own food -

The benefits are pretty self-explanatory. But if you think you need a huge backyard to do this, think again. In some cases, you don't even need any outside space at all. Herbs, for instance, can be grown in small jars in your kitchen!

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Car maintenance -

Keeping on top of your car basic maintenance, such as checking oil level, coolant level, and tire pressure, might help you save some money in the long run.

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Carry snacks -

Are you out and about all day and often in need of a snack? Carry one yourself and save some money. A piece of fruit or a granola/protein bar can help keep hunger at bay and won't break the bank.

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Use a local store -

Our grandparents relied on local grocers, butchers, and bakers, and so can you. Is the trip to the huge supermarket really worth it?

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Learn to bargain -

If you don't ask, you won't receive. Many of us don't bargain, perhaps because we mostly shop online and in big stores, but there's nothing wrong in trying to get a better deal. You might just get a discount!

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DIY gifts -

Nothing is more personal than a gift you make with your own hands! Plus, you'll likely save a lot of money.

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Pack lunch -

Your grandparents wouldn't run to the shop to buy some food or eat at a restaurant every day. Food prep is a great way for you to keep a consistent diet and save money.

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Save rain water -

If you're not doing this to water your lawn, plants, and anything else you have in your garden, then start today!

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Lists are your friend -

Not only can you create a grocery shopping list, but you can also plan your meals ahead. This will allow you to spend money on exactly what you need, and only that!

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Buy whole foods -

Do you really need to buy sliced carrots or cubes of butternut squash? Save money by buying whole foods and preparing them yourself.

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Picnic instead of restaurant -

Going to visit your friends and so you'll be on the road for a few hours? Why not bring some food and have a picnic, instead of stopping at a restaurant?

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Re-use fabric -

It's all about recycling and re-purposing. Your grandparents would've probably kept old clothes and towels and would've reused them as cleaning rags.

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Save bits and pieces -

Collect tidbits such as buttons and pieces of ribbon, and put them in a jar or box. You can do lots of cool creative DIY stuff with them.

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Eat more beans and lentils -

Nutritionally rich, filling, and cheap; beans are obvious choices when it comes to food. Incorporate more of them into your diet.

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Start a compost bin -

This is so much better than just throwing everything in the garbage. It will save you bags, time, and you'll get free compost. Not to mention that it's all in harmony with nature.

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Save seeds -

You'll be doing your bit for conservation, and enjoy the benefits of doing so. Examples include marigolds, beans, and herbs such as cilantro and dill.

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Buy what you need... -

...not what you can afford. It's great that you can afford a more expensive item, but do you need it? That's the question to ask yourself before spending more money.

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Start saving money -

It goes without saying that the best way to save money is by, well, saving money. You can start small. And, remember, it's never too late to begin.

Sources: (Country Living)

See also: The best tips for personal money management

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