5 ways to Stay Thrifty That Maybe You Haven't Thought Of

This is a tough economy, and if you're anything like me, it's a scary time. I've got student loans and a car payment, as well as a man who likes to eat, eat, eat, and eat. In these tense times, you've got to do something to save a little money, or just trim down your expenses in order to make ends meet. It can be hard, and lots of articles urge you to clip coupons and for-go your morning Starbucks non-fat, no whip, triple shot latte. But what if you're already doing those things, and it's still not easy street? I looked in to my own frugal life, and here are 5 tiny tips I found that add up to a big difference.

1. Cook, a lot. Sure, if you're clipping coupons, this might not sound like a great idea, but it is. Preheating the oven, and cooking time heats up our 1,000 foot apartment in no time. And that time is time we can turn the heat off. Also, cooking is a lot less expensive than eating out, and if you make enough, and are careful with the portion control, you'll have a bunch of left overs, which translates into more money in your pocket. So kick back, and whip your favorite recipe. You won't notice the heat is off, and you'll soon have a warm, fully belly that will let you keep the heat off even longer. Turning the heat off for an hour to two hours everyday (plus, the time you're not at home) really helps cinch in the wallet buckle.

2. Take the screens of your windows, and leave your screen doors open. Obviously, keep your windows closed to keep the heat in, but taking the screens off, or leaving the screen doors open is one really thrifty way to save money, because you're not spending any! Screens help keep bugs out, but they also diffuse light in the summer to keep rooms cool. By removing the screens, you're removing the diffuser, and letting light into your home in a more concentrated manner. It's like your own little solar pad as it warms your home while your gone, and the residual heat keeps you toast(ier) when you do get home. Just remember to leave your blinds up, and your valuables out of sight when trying this thrifty tip!

3. Sell your books back. This pains me to say, because I love books, and my book collection is just about as beloved to me as my two furry kittens.However, most people don't read their books more than once, so take the ones you didn't like, or the ones you know you won't read again to your nearest re-sale book shop. You'll be surprised how much cash you can make by bringing in lots of the right kinds of books. Also, when you sell your books, most book stores also give you a coupon, (generally 10-15% off your next purchase). This means you'll save money while trying out someone's old books. When you're done- resell and continue the cycle. Of course, if you really can't part with your Nora Roberts collection (she's super popular, so bookstores are always willing to buy her books, btw), get a library card. They are usually free, and you don't have to spend a penny getting the new Sue Grafton novel. You might have wait a week for it to arrive, but hey- why not, it's free!

4. Go E-Less at a Certain time every night. This means, shut off your lights, unplug all your electronics and snuggle up. Play a family game by the fireside, or leave on lamp on and read aloud. I know this sounds scary- we're all so connected to the internet and instantaneous amusement. You won't believe how much fun ditching the computer screen can be to spend time with the family. It also saves you a bunch of money. Think about it, it's a more drastic solution than the rest but it's also a huge money saver.

5. Park N Ride. Carpooling is so 1980s. I usually take the bus, but even bus passes add up eventually. So carpool, in your parachute pants. OR, park your car in a free parking spot (troll the area around your job, there is usually a street with no restriction parking within a mile) and walk the rest of the way in. This is a great solution for people like me, who live too far away to walk outright, and have to pay for parking at their jobs. It's also more time efficient because you're not on the bus, which can be up to a two hour ride. It's also great exercise. If you do this with a friend, alternating who drives, it can save you a ton of money, and you've made yourself a little friend time in the process (now you don't need a $5 coffee drink from Starbucks- you've already caught up!)

I hope these tips have made you think of some less obvious ways to save money in this recession. The more creative you are, the more ways you can save. Happy Thrifting!