Save and Splurge Lifestyle: Money Saving Tips

I live by the "Save, then Splurge" motto when it comes to money. This may not be the most financially responsible way to live, but hey I'm in my 20's I'm going to live it up while I can. I typically use this method when it relates to travel, I work hard and save up my money and then I splurge by going on some fabulous trip somewhere. There are lots of little tips and tricks that I use to help me when I am in Save mode. These tricks can help you save money all year round or just when you are saving up for something specific.

Loose coin jar - This is my favorite way to save money. At the end of everyday i'll put all my loose change in a jar. Sometimes I'll even put a few spare dollars in that are lying around. After a few months you can have a substantial chunk of change in there. Check with your bank and see what their requirements for depositing change. You can use a Coinstar machine to convert your change but they do take a percentage.

Open an extra savings account - Make a savings account that is specifically for what you are trying to save money for, in my case a travel savings account. This way you keep that money separate from all the bill-paying, grocery buying money. 

Plan your weekly meals - If you plan your meals when you go grocery shopping their will be no unnecessary purchases and less temptations to go out to eat when you don't feel like cooking.

Buy generic - Name brands are expensive and when you are trying to save money, something to be avoided. You don't need expensive name brand shampoo, conditioner  or body wash and you will survive without that designer makeup.

Stop buying bottled water. This is not only a money saver, its common sense and its good for the environment. Invest in a cute water bottle and just refill it on the regular and you will save yourself a ton of cash.

Make coffee at home - This goes a long with the last one. Buying coffee at Starbucks all the time can really break the bank. Making coffee on your own can save you a lot.

Watch movies online - Going to the movies is fun but every time you go there it breaks the bank. If you really want to get out to the theaters then go to a matinee and bring your own snacks.

Pay your bills on time - This is a given. But it needs to be said because late fees are a real cash drain. 

DIY your present - When it comes to birthdays and Christmas presents can cost a fortune, so break out your inner Pinterest fanatic and give some of those DIY projects a try.

Stay in - Trust me, I know as much as anyone that staying in when everyone is going out is no fun. So why don't you plan on a night in with your friends. Pot luck dinner. Bring your own wine night. Movie marathon. 

What are some of your favorite money-saving tricks?