Whether you're saving up for a dream holiday, need a new summer wardrobe or simply want to get your hands on that flashy convertible you keep seeing on the telly, it's sometimes tricky knowing how to make your money go further. With the recession well and truly upon us, we all need to make sensible decisions and ensure we're waiting for the perfect moment to really splash the cash. Here are my top tips on how to make your money go further this summer...
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1. Sensible Savings
If you're saving up for that special something (be it a wedding or new home,) it may be worth investigating an ISA. Essentially a tax-free savings account, ISAs can ensure your savings are safe from the tax man while they build up interest. You can invest up to £11,520 (in cash and shares) absolutely tax free, rather than your money sitting in a bank account and being pilfered off by the tax man. Martin Lewis is always recommending investing in one of these, so why not do a bit of research to ensure you get the best ISA around.
2. Credible Credit
Although getting a credit card is never a good idea if you can't afford to actually pay it off, there are some fab offers from banks and stores that allow you to 'buy now pay later.' If you're desperate for that new HD 3D TV with surround sound to watch the sport on, but can't wait until Christmas, shop around to see where you can get interest free credit. Even shops like Argos have 'pay nothing for six months' deals, so you can give the patio a makeover without dipping into the holiday fund.
3. Purposeful Planning
Having a game plan is vital. If you have a specific objective in mind then it becomes much more achievable if you set up small steps that take you closer to your goal. Why not give up one thing a month and invest that saved cash into a savings account - before you know it, you'll have a significant amount that will provide a chunk towards your goal. If I gave up my Starbucks addition for a month I'm pretty sure I'd be able to afford to buy another Mulberry handbag.
Those are my top tips, but how do you ensure you make sensible financial decisions so you can get your hands on those lustful items?
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1. Sensible Savings
If you're saving up for that special something (be it a wedding or new home,) it may be worth investigating an ISA. Essentially a tax-free savings account, ISAs can ensure your savings are safe from the tax man while they build up interest. You can invest up to £11,520 (in cash and shares) absolutely tax free, rather than your money sitting in a bank account and being pilfered off by the tax man. Martin Lewis is always recommending investing in one of these, so why not do a bit of research to ensure you get the best ISA around.
2. Credible Credit
Although getting a credit card is never a good idea if you can't afford to actually pay it off, there are some fab offers from banks and stores that allow you to 'buy now pay later.' If you're desperate for that new HD 3D TV with surround sound to watch the sport on, but can't wait until Christmas, shop around to see where you can get interest free credit. Even shops like Argos have 'pay nothing for six months' deals, so you can give the patio a makeover without dipping into the holiday fund.
3. Purposeful Planning
Having a game plan is vital. If you have a specific objective in mind then it becomes much more achievable if you set up small steps that take you closer to your goal. Why not give up one thing a month and invest that saved cash into a savings account - before you know it, you'll have a significant amount that will provide a chunk towards your goal. If I gave up my Starbucks addition for a month I'm pretty sure I'd be able to afford to buy another Mulberry handbag.
Those are my top tips, but how do you ensure you make sensible financial decisions so you can get your hands on those lustful items?
