How to Combat Increased Prices

Expenses at the pump are on the rise and food hasn’t been much different. We could go down the list from eggs, wheat, corn, chicken, fish and just about everything in between as the cost down the aisle is up. Plane tickets are more expensive, hotel prices are rising, and a plethora of other items. Check out these tips to help you save more money.

Food:

1. Coupons and Promotions: To help keep your grocery budget under control, take full advantage of coupons or promotions to stock up on your freezer and pantry items. Also, consider buying non-perishable items in bulk.
2. Shopping location: Try sticking to warehouse clubs and discount stores, such as Costco, Trader Joe’s, Sam’s Club, or ALDI when shopping for your groceries.
3. Buying generic items: Sometimes the only difference between certain products is the packaging. Always buy the store or generic brand on the following products to reduce your grocery bill.

• • Juice and Milk
  • Cereal and Grain Products
  • Staples and Produce
  • Cleaning Products
  • Makeup and Personal Care
  • Medications
  • Infant Care
  • Snacks and Sweets

Gas:

1. Apps: Choosing where you fill up your vehicle can make a huge difference. Apps like GasBuddy or Gas Guru help drivers find the best deals on gas prices.
2. Payment Form: Think about the best way to pay at gas stations. Did you know that some stations offer a lower price if you pay with cash instead of credit card? Or consider paying with a cash back credit card, or credit card that rewards you specifically for fuel purchases.
3. Car: Take it nice and easy by reducing your acceleration rate on the highway and keep your speed below 75 mph. By doing this, you can increase the fuel economy. Using cruise control on the highway will also save fuel. Make sure to check your tire pressure as having them properly aired up will make your vehicle run more efficiently. Remember to reduce the number of car trips you make. Instead, try car-pooling, walking, taking public transportation, or staying home.

Traveling:

1. Travel off-peak: Avoiding the most popular travel days will help you save money. If you are flying, you are likely to get a cheaper flight on a Monday or Tuesday than you would on a Saturday. You will also save money booking a trip during off-season months like September or October rather than the middle of summer.
2. Pack Light: Packing less will save you more. If you’re flying, squeezing everything you need into a carry-on bag could save you extra fees associated with checking a bag.
3. Join Membership Clubs: Signing up for your favorite hotel's loyalty program will save you money in the long run as bonuses add up. For example, if you take a five night trip this year you’ll have a free night stay to use next year. Joining loyalty programs is free and they usually offer discounted rates or lower prices to members.

Don’t forget, with Central Bank’s RoundUp Savings you can automatically round up your purchases from your checking account with every debit card transaction. With high prices, RoundUp makes saving affordable. To get started, all you need is a personal checking account, savings account, and debit Mastercard.