Money Sense Tips

With the ever increasing cost of movie tickets, many people are looking for the best way to save on tickets. There are several ways to save on movie tickets including using discounts and viewing earlier shows. Do some research online and discover the many ways you can go to the movies for less.

* Use discounts where you can. Senior citizens and students are eligible for discounts at many movie theaters. You may have to show proof of enrollment or proof of age if you look younger than you are. Other discounts include memberships such as AAA and AARP, which may be greater than a senior citizen’s discount.

Entertainment books usually provide coupons for discounts on movie tickets. Which movie theaters participate depends upon the entertainment book, but typically include Regal Cinemas, Multiplex Theatres and AMC. The entertainment books run $10 to $20 but the savings are enormous, sometimes offering movie ticket deals for as low as $5.

* View a matinee instead of an evening show. Matinees usually offer a steep discount off the regular night-time movie ticket price. Sometimes theaters will offer a pre-matinee show, usually offered before noon. These shows are even cheaper than matinees. Viewing earlier movies is a great way to cut down on the expense and the crowds as well.

* Drive-ins are another great way to save money. Many drive-in theaters allow for two movies for the price of one with back-to-back flicks. Bonus points – if you bring your own food, you save even more money for the evening.

* Buying movie tickets online ahead of the theater may yield in savings. Simply go to your movie theater’s website to view all of the online specials. When in doubt, call the movie theater first to verify the special if you are unsure of its validity.

Saving money on movie tickets is not hard if you know where to find the deals. With the ever increasing cost of movie tickets, it is not feasible in today’s economy to be able to frequent the movies often without a discount. Using the above tips will help to ascertain you get the best deal for your money.

Today more than ever people are trying to find ways to cut back and trim their expenses. Whether you are expecting a new addition to the family or expecting to retire in the coming months, the hardest part about adjusting is often changing your habits. Because we are creatures of habit it may take some getting used to, but once accomplished the rewards are endless.

If you are into the “quick fix” you need look no further than your refrigerator, as by using its contents more you can save yourself a bundle almost immediately. First, bring your lunch to work. Too many of us are in the habit of grabbing something at the local outlet versus making a sandwich or bringing some soup for lunch. While this in itself is keeping the local businesses running, your pocket book is suffering. You may also want to enjoy more meals at home. While a meal out once in a while is not harmful, eating out or ordering in more than a couple of times a month can add up.

Approach your food shopping as if it was a game. See how much money you can save. Set aside an amount ample for the supplies needed and then see how far under you can achieve. Get that Sunday paper, clip those coupons and do check the stores and the sales that are going on. There is a lot of competition going on right now – use it to your advantage.

The most important thing to remember before heading out is to compile a list of the items needed and stick to the list. More often than not, if you go out without a direction you are likely to pick up items that you could have done without. Also try and plan your meals ahead as this will reduce waste. Whatever you spend under your allotted amount, put in a jar and save it until you have saved enough for the item you wanted. This way it is not coming out of any other money.

Utilities are another example of places where money can be saved. It’s easily achieved by simply turning off lights when not in use, using the dishwasher once it is full, lowering the thermostat, or buying a programmable one. Programmable thermostats allow for regulation of your thermostat and lower bills. The same can be said for air conditioning. Using these tips will help to lower your utilities over the year.

Another way to save is to reduce your cable and cell phone bill. It seems like there are endless channels available on cable today. However, most premium channels replay the same movies so look into your current package to see what can be removed.  As far as cell phones go, if you have minutes left over each month, chances are pretty good that you are over paying.

Cutting back requires a lot of determination and sheer will. Adjusting our habits is not always easy, but when approaching a life change, it may be necessary.