Having a limited budget doesn’t have to limit the fun you can have with your friends and family. You can still plan a party that everyone will enjoy. Here are some frugal ideas for your Labor Day party this year.

* Host a potluck. Who doesn’t enjoy a potluck meal? As the host, having a potluck is an easy and frugal alternative for you. The food is often the most expensive part of any gathering. When you invite your guests to bring their own, this will cut down on the cost considerably. As well, your guests will enjoy sharing their favorite dishes. With so many different foods to choose from, there is sure to be something that even the pickiest eaters will like to eat.


* Bring your own side dishes and desserts. If you don’t want to host a potluck, you can still cut down costs by inviting guests to bring side dishes and desserts to share. This way you can prepare a main course, but still save money by not spending for other foods. You might want to make a list of what everyone is bringing so you don’t end up with a table full of desserts and no potato salad.

* Borrow party equipment. When you’re having a party, everyone wants to come. You don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings by leaving them off the list. Besides, the more the merrier! But you may not have the equipment you need to host a large gathering. Instead of spending your money on extra chairs and tables, invite everyone to bring their own. See if you can borrow an extra barbeque instead of renting one to grill burgers for everyone. You may even want to see if anyone has a canopy you can borrow so you can stay outdoors where there’s more room if it rains.

* Plan a party in the park. Hosting a party in a local park could be a great way to keep things under your budget. There is usually a covered area you can use, as well as fire pits or grills. You might have to pay a fee to rent the area. However, you can also split the costs with other friends or family members who want to co-host the party with you.

* Play old-fashioned party games. Entertainment can take a big bite out of your party budget. If you’ll have kids at the party, see if any of your guests would like to paint their faces or make balloon animals for them. Old-fashioned party games like horseshoes or a scavenger hunt can be fun for everyone at the party.

Labor Day is definitely a day worth celebrating! These frugal ideas will help you celebrate the last long weekend of summer while still staying under your budget.

Drain Unclogger and Freshener – The next time your drain is plugged, choose a safer and more cost-effective way to unclog it. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain. Add 1 cup of hot vinegar. Wait 5 minutes. Flush the drain with 2 quarts of hot water. Repeat if needed.

Home-Made Glass Cleaner - To clean glass, combine 2 cups water, ½ cup white vinegar, and ¼ cup rubbing alcohol. Store the mixture in a clean spray bottle. To use, spray the solution on a rag or paper towel then wipe glass.

Home-Made Furniture Polish - Make your furniture shine by mixing 1 cup of olive oil with ½ cup of lemon juice in a clean spray bottle. Shake the solution well before each use. To use, apply a small amount to your cleaning cloth or rag. Spread the polish over the furniture evenly. Dry the surface with a clean cloth.

Home-Made Multi-Purpose Cleaner - You can easily keep bathroom and kitchen surfaces clean with this solution. Mix 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a clean spray bottle to create your own multi-purpose cleaner.

Home-Made Floor Cleaners - Commercial cleaners are handy, but these are very simple to make and much more affordable. To make a cleaner for your wood floor, mix ½ cup of white vinegar with ½ cup of vegetable oil. This will make your floors shine as beautifully as any commercial cleaner. To clean your linoleum or tile floors, mix 1 tablespoon of liquid soap, ¼ cup of baking soda, 2 gallons of water and ¼ cup white vinegar.

Home-Made Car Cleaning Products – You can save money by cleaning your car yourself using these environmentally friendly recipes. To wash the exterior of the car, all you need is a bucket of water and some liquid castile soap. Add a few drops of soap to the water and wash.

For an environmentally safe chrome cleaner, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Spray the solution on your wheels and rub with a sponge or cleaning rag. You can make a carpet and upholstery stain remover with white vinegar and baking soda. Make a paste with the vinegar and soda. Work the paste into any stains with a small scrub brush. Let the paste dry then vacuum. Any stains should be gone.

Now you can keep the environment clean while cleaning your home and car. Using the above recipes will also keep your cleaning costs down.

Using the internet is one of the top ways to save money on your next trip. Not only are the prices the cheapest, but it can be smarter than booking months in advance where if your plans change, you are out all that money. Here are four last-minute tips to help you save a serious amount of cash:

#1) Get on travel sites’ email lists

If you are really flexible, this is a great option. These companies will often times send you last-minute deals. And don’t forget about the airlines themselves. Getting on their mailing list is another great way to find the top deals.

While this can offer great savings, you have to be ready to go at a moment’s notice. And you have to be flexible about the location. Since most people are unable to do this, you have little competition for these deals. This is one of the best ways to save money if you are completely flexible.

This can be a really fun strategy in addition to saving you money. Often times over-planning takes all the fun out of a trip. This strategy will force you to keep planning to a minimum. You just claim the deal and leave.

#2) Book your trip 1-2 days prior to leaving

Remember, airlines and hotels hate empty rooms and seats. Therefore, they often lower the prices for short-term travel if they have vacancies. Most people mistakenly think you need to book months in advance to save money, but this is not the case.

Where should you book?

Orbitz and Expedia are great places to start. And to get further savings, try to plan your trip between Tuesday and Thursday. This ensures you avoid the long weekend price hikes.

#3) Use auction sites

After you’ve looked on the traditional sites, consider bidding on auction sites like Priceline.com and others. Often times this enables you to save even more money.

#4) Do not go during peak times

Avoiding the weekends is your best bet. Consider going offseason as well. In most instances the fall, spring and early winter are the least busy times.

One of the best travel dates is the first week of December, because this is the time the fewest people travel. Therefore, going then will save you money.

The bottom line is, last minute trips can be great deals when done right. It won’t work if you are going to Disney World during Christmas Break, but if you avoid the peak seasons you will save a lot of money.

Avoid going to the grocery store without a written list of what you’re there to buy. If you don’t have a plan, then it’s easy to fall prey to impulse shopping and add unnecessary items (cookies, chips, and sodas are common culprits) to your cart. An important way to make sure you stick to your list is never to go to the grocery store while you’re hungry.

2. Plan Your List with Store Ads

When you’re preparing your shopping list, it’s often a good idea to check your grocery store’s newspaper flyers. This way you can plan your meals based on what meats, fruits, vegetables and other items are on sale that week. If you don’t read the newspaper, don’t worry – most chain grocery stores also publish these flyers on their websites.

3. Compare “Per Unit” Prices

We all know that we should be comparing prices, to make sure that we don’t pay too much when we have choices between brands. But we also need to compare the “per unit” prices – so that if there are two different package sizes of the same item, we can make sure we’re getting the best deal.

The price tags on the shelf will usually (in smaller print) give the “per ounce” price (or the “per unit” price if it’s sandwich bags or something that isn’t sold by weight or volume). This makes it easier to compare the price of two different-sized packages, so that you can see how much you’d save buy buying the larger package. Make sure you’ll use everything you buy, though – if you end up throwing away half of the larger package because it goes bad, then you’re probably not saving!

4. Store Shopping Card

If you haven’t done so already, sign up for your store’s shopping card or loyalty card program. Doing so generally only takes a few minutes, and it makes it extremely easy to save more on your grocery bill. Just present your card when you’re at the checkout and you’ll automatically save.

5. Don’t Forget about Coupons

Of course, there’s always that old money-saving standby – coupons. Many magazines, and probably your local newspaper, still publish them. Chain grocery stores and food companies also let you print out coupons from their websites. And don’t forget that many stores still have days where they double the value of the coupons you use.

By using one or two of these tips you’ll save a noticeable amount on your weekly grocery bill. If you use them all, you can help your family’s budget even more!

#1 Roasted chicken. A whole chicken is incredibly inexpensive and it’s also much healthier than a burger or ribs. You can find whole roasted chickens already cooked at your market or you can cook it at home and take it to your picnic to eat warm or cold.

#2 Fill your basket with fruits and veggies. When you buy foods that are in season they’re much less expensive. Summer is a great time for finding tasty fruits and veggies in season. This means you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg filling your picnic basket. And because fruits and veggies are rich in fiber, you’ll fill up quickly. For even more savings, visit your local farmer’s market to buy your fruits and vegetables.

#3 Tuna, chicken or egg salad. Tuna salad, egg salad and chicken salad are all delicious and they’re inexpensive. And if you use light mayonnaise or yogurt as your dressing base, they’re healthy too. Add carrots, celery and other chopped veggies for a good crunch and more nutrition.

#4 Beverages. Skip soda and beer; it’s expensive and not so healthy. Instead bring water, tea or lemonade to drink. If it’s just not a picnic without beer, limit yourself to one and consider light beer for fewer calories.

#5 Make kebabs. Kebabs are great on the grill and they’re easy to make. Chop chicken, beef or lamb into cubes. Cut vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, onions, and squash into cubes. Skewer, marinate in an Italian dressing for an hour and then pop on the grill. They’re healthy and fairly inexpensive to make.

#7 Have fruit for dessert. If fresh fruit just isn’t enough dessert, consider making fruit popsicles.

Here’s a great recipe to try:

2 c. plain yogurt
1 c. bananas, strawberries, blueberries, etc.
1/2 c. orange or apple juice
Blend all ingredients together and pour into small paper cups or popsicle molds. If you’re using paper cups you’ll need to insert popsicle sticks. Place in freezer, remove when frozen and enjoy!  

There are many ways to make summertime picnics fun, inexpensive and healthy too. Step outside of the traditional foods like ribs, burgers, brownies and chips and embrace a healthier and more frugal lifestyle. Enjoy!

One of the best ways you can save money every month is on food. However, this is easier said than done. Here are six of the top strategies to get started:

#1) Have a list

Many people walk into the grocery store without any clear plan, and wind up spending money on all kinds of food they do not need. When you have a list and stick to it, you avoid the “impulse buys” the stores encourage.

#2) Eat fruit in season

Again, this is no big secret, but it will save you a lot of money. During apple season, eat as many apples as possible. When they are out of season, either buy more bananas or another fruit. This is a simple idea, but it works.

#3) Use coupons

This is another easy strategy that works. Where do you find them? Make sure to check online.

There are plenty of coupon-specific sites on the internet. Another great method is to join the mailing lists for companies you purchase from often. For instance, if there is a certain brand of rice you buy a lot of, then get on their list. Most companies offer periodic coupons, so you can really save money by using this tip.

What if you don’t want a lot of advertisements in your inbox? Then get a separate email to use solely for getting coupons. This strategy takes a bit of effort, but it will be well worth it.

#4) Eat less meat

In general, all meat is very pricey. You can really save by eating more vegetarian foods. If you stick with eating meat once or twice a week, or cut it out altogether, you will really save a lot.

#5) Plan ahead

Figuring out your meal schedule on Sunday night is advised. This will help you know what you are eating, and therefore map out your shopping plan accordingly.

#6) Avoid sweets

These foods do not fill you up at all, and yet are the most expensive things you buy. Therefore, you are essentially throwing money down the drain. Focus on purchasing filling but healthy foods.

The reality is, saving money on food isn’t that hard. When you go to the grocery store with a plan, and make sure you only buy the foods on your list, you will save money. However, when you go without knowing what you want, you could end up just buying whatever looks good. This is how those shopping bills skyrocket in a hurry. So have a plan, and stick to it at all costs.

#1) Stay at hostels

This may not be as nice as a hotel, but it will save you a lot of money. Of course you do not want to stay in a dump, but you can save some serious cash using this method. The truth is, hostels are nicer than they used to be, and you can have an enjoyable stay at one.

In many instances the rooms are $30-$50, compared with $100 or more for a decent hotel. Just about every big city has a number of hostels to choose from. If you are unsure of which to go with, just read reviews of the one you are considering.

#2) Use the Lonely Planet Magazine

This will often help you find better prices. In many instances you can locate great hotels for real bargains. These are generally little-known gems that are off the beaten path, and therefore are still high quality but without the premium pricing. In many instances they are just as nice as hotels that cost two to three times the price.  

#3) Do a home exchange

This is one of the best strategies for saving money, and many people do not even know about it. How does it work? You allow someone to say at your house while you stay at theirs.

Both parties will be going to the others’ city. You do not even need the same priced house. You might end up staying in a 2000 square foot home, even though you only gave up a 1000 square footer. As long as both parties are happy, that’s all that matters.

Where do you find home exchanges? There are plenty of online sites that will connect you with other travelers looking to come to your city. This is one of the simplest but most effective strategies for massive savings during the holidays.

#4) Book early

This is no big secret. The earlier you book, the more choices you will have. For instance, if you are going somewhere on Christmas break, do not wait until December 18 to start looking for hotels. Do so months in advance. The choices will be much greater, and since there are more options, you will save money.

The bottom line is, you do not have to pay top dollar when travelling during the holidays. Hopefully these tips will help you enjoy a great trip while saving a lot of money.

Saving money where possible is always a benefit and your monthly phone bill is no exception. Regardless of whether you use a cell phone or a landline, there are many ways to cut down on your bill.

Use the following tips to save money on your monthly phone bill.

- Make sure you have the right plan. This is especially true with a cell phone. Why should you pay for minutes that you are not using? Choosing a plan that is too big for your needs can be costing you more. The same goes for a plan that contains too few minutes as most companies charge per minute overage charges. These rates are usually higher than the bundled minutes.

- Cell phones usually come with many extra add-on services. If you are not using these services, have your phone company remove them. You will see an instant savings in your monthly bill.

- If you are using a landline, there are several choices you can use, with digital phone being one of the best options. Digital phone services, typically offered through your cable company, usually include free long-distance calls. Cable companies also offer discounts for bundled service such as cable, internet and phone. Other phone services such as Verizon charge an extra per minute fee for long-distance calls.

– In the last few years, Magic Jack has become quite popular. The service offers phone service for an annual fee that many providers cannot beat: $19.95. The original cost is $39.95, which includes a year of service. A free phone number is provided and there are no hidden charges. There are specifications that apply to using Magic Jack so be sure to do your research on the product before choosing it as your provider.

- Skype is another popular online software program. It does require a download to your computer, but the software is free. Skype is free of charge to talk, chat and video chat as long as the recipient also has Skype. Skype does allow outside calls to be made on Skype credit. The only downside to Skype is that it is not considered a replacement for your landline and no emergency calling can be made on Skype.

- Do not forget to comparison shop. Make a list of all of the services that you need and shop around for the best price. It may be time-consuming, but the monthly savings will be worth the effort.

There are several ways you can cut your monthly phone bill. Check your plans to make sure you have the right plan for your needs. Too few or too many minutes will result in overage charges that will hike your phone bill. Just as there are many options for cell phones, there are many options for landlines as well. Shop around and compare companies before committing to one service. Taking the time to shop around will ensure that you lower your monthly service bill and save money.

Family Feasts for $75 a Week: A Penny-wise Mom Shares Her Recipe for Cutting Hundreds from Your Monthly Food Bill

If you need some help in your quest to achieve frugality, have a look at the book “Family Feasts for $75 a Week”. I am always on the look-out for advice and tips to stay within my budget, especially when it comes to food. It is amazing, how much money you can save food shopping and still eat well, if you know how to. The above mentioned book is a great resource on how to achieve frugality, even in your busy schedule with work and family.

The author is a mother of 10 and amazingly feeds her family well on a shoestring. In her book she gives lots of helpful tips on how to create weekly menu plans, how to be a savvy shopper, writing your grocery lists (and sticking to them). The book also includes lots of delicious, time-saving and money-saving recipes your whole family (and your wallet) will enjoy. Saving money on your weekly food shop will not only feel great, but also give you the opportunity to save up for something special: a family outing, a night out at the movies with the whole family or even a little vacation. Having a dream or goal will help make the changes to more frugal living easier.

Overall, I think that this book is a great read. The author shows the reader, if they are interested to take it on, that making a big dent in your grocery bill doesn’t mean you need to spend hours and hours in the kitchen, on top of your busy life, or eat food you don’t really like. She shows you how to make saving plans. So, if you take on her tips and tricks, you’ll discover that it is not only fun to save money on food shopping, but that you can save your money for something the whole family will enjoy.

One of Helpful Customer Reviews

Frugillionaire is a great read. It is very much a common sense book with lots of fantastic tips to live frugally. Whether you are trying to make the most out of your money whilst dining out or when buying food at the supermarket.

You find advice on

- how to redecorate your home in a stylish way on a limited budget

- create a fantastic garden on a shoestring

- Learn to dress for less, beauty tips on a budget

- find entertainment on the cheap.

The book also provides frugal tips for raising children, frugal holidays and transportation.

The “Thinking like a Frugillionaire” section offers great tips on how to become and think like a frugillionaire and live under the motto: ‘Live richly and save a fortune’. And at the end of the day, it will feel fantastic to have lived within your means and still have a good time.

All in all, this is a very informative book. It promotes a healthy way of spending money and enjoying life without having to keep up with the Joneses.

Review by a reader:

Saves Money! I want to be a Frugillionaire!, July 15, 2009

By	Book Addict – See all my reviews

This review is from: Frugillionaire: 500 Fabulous Ways to Live Richly and Save a Fortune (Paperback)

I’m amazed after reading this book that the smallest expenses can turn into lots of “found dollars” over time without feeling deprived. Why spend on items that will inevitably become “stuff” that’s really not needed? It not only saves you money, but will reduce the stress factor because you don’t have to find “time” to use those impulsive buys. This book contains fantastic ideas for ways to save on beauty, household, travel, entertainment and more. I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to relearn a simple lifestyle, save money, reduce the stress in your life and become a healthier individual! It certainly shows you the way to become a “frugillionaire!”

Get The book Today: Frugillionaire: 500 Fabulous Ways to Live Richly and Save a Fortune