5 ways to save money during the cost-of-living crisis

Throughout the recent weeks, even months. The UK has been going through a Cost-of-Living Crisis. The crisis has left most people (except the rich) unable to heat their homes, buy necessities like shampoo or soap, and even stop people from putting food on their tables. People have been trying to find ways to keep warm without the heating, saving money on food, and even finding a way to save a small amount for their family throughout this trying time.

1. Stop the Draughts!

Since the start of the Cost-of-Living crisis, it has become apparent how draughty the house is. Even even if you have the windows and doors closed, there can still be a rush of cold air that blows through the house. In most houses, it can be found that the draughts are coming from the loft, the windows and even the post-box. To stop the draughts, place cardboard on the windows to keep the heat in and to stop the draught coming in. You could get a new post-box which isn't as weak as the last and patch up any small holes in the loft that were letting it in. If you feel your house or flat has a draught, check places such as the radiators, the front and back door, the loft, the windows, and even the floors.

2. Batch Cook!

Batch cooking has been a big thing for many people. The most important thing is planning. Every Saturday, sit down and plan the week's meals and then on Sunday, buy the ingredients (depending on pricing) and then cook everything. Place the food in the freezer to have it whenever you want. You don't have to worry about it for the week ahead. Now, not many people like this…but slow cooking. It is much more energy efficient than using the stove or the oven, and you do not have to cook for the entire day well. You don't have to cook for as long as you would if you cooked the same meal on the stove. Batch cooking has also helped save some money. Buy the cheapest ingredients you can find, and most of the time, you will save a few pennies. Not much, but it is better than nothing.

3. Exercise!

To help keep warm, especially during these cold nights. Google some home workouts and so at least half an hour to get the heart racing and the blood pumping. All things that will keep someone warm. It will help squish the temptation to turn on the heating. It will save on large energy bills. Exercises such as star jumps, lunges, and even running on the spot. All things that can warm you up and even make you feel happy, even if you aren't happy doing it to begin with.

4. Wrap Up!

Being told to wrap up countless times throughout these past few months, especially now that it is Winter, is annoying. But it is true. Wearing fluffy jumpers (even if it's a few jumpers) and a pair of fluffy socks or slippers will keep you warm; if it doesn't, a blanket will be helpful. You could buy an oodie (a big warm cosy blanket you can wear). If you cannot afford one, then blankets, jumpers, slippers, or socks are the same.

5. Money Banks/Tubs

Putting any loose change, whether pennies or pounds or even the odd five-pound note. Putting change in money banks or tubs can be beneficial to saving during this time. Using these money banks or tubs can help pay for going out socially or even getting to and from College or University. Having something set aside in case money becomes short gives a lot more freedom.