Guest Blog: Befrugal.com- Never Pay Full Price Again

You don’t have to live like Granny Smith to save green in the Big Apple

There is no denying that NYC is one of the most expensive places to live. With spending temptation all around from food to fashion galore, how can an average New Yorker save money?

It does not have to mean deprivation, but it does require thought and practice. Here are a few tips:

·       Plan your spending: Make a list of what you plan to buy and do throughout the week and be sure it fits into your budget:

o   Stick to your plan to avoid surprise spending.

o   Look for savings opportunities so you can spend even less than you intended. Head online for some quick research:

§  Check out weekly ads so you can spot sales.

§  Look at group buying sites like for deals on entertainment options.

·       If you purchase Groupons through a savings site, you can earn cash back (a percentage of your transaction deposited into a free account) on top of your savings. The rate today (3/13/2012) at BeFrugal.com is up to 8%.

§  Search for printable shopping coupons and restaurant coupons.

o   Make all your purchases online. Here’s why smart New Yorkers should shop online:

§  Your purchases are delivered straight to your building.

§  You’ll avoid sales pressure to buy complimentary items.

§  There’s no embarrassment when deciding to put items back.

§  You can find free coupon codes to save money.

§  You can earn cash back for free when you shop through a savings website.

§  You can use a rewards credit card to earn points or more cash back.

·       Consider alternative entertainment options. Restaurants, movies, and just about everything else are expensive, without even adding in cab fare. These ideas can help you save:

o   Invite a few friends over for a pot luck meal. Hosting a party can be costly and apartments are too small to have many guests, but you can still have a fun evening or brunch gathering.

o   Enjoy the park. Grab a book or pack a lunch and head to Central Park to get some free fresh air.

The money you save using these tactics can be deposited into your bank account or used to treat yourself.

BeFrugal.com offers free money-saving resources including coupons, Cash Back, tools, advice, weekly ads and more.  You can get a $10 bonus for signing up for free. Sign up today!