Thrifty Spring savings

Look forward to a relaxed summer holiday and lavish Christmas with a little springtime saving.

Swap movie nights for starlight picnics Save on expensive movie tickets and popcorn and enjoy the great outdoors. With longer days and milder weather, pack a picnic dinner, grab your friends and family and enjoy dusk in the park. BYO snags, Frisbee and drinks!

Negotiate essential services New season, new negotiation! Contact essential service providers such as phone, gas, water and electricity to get a better deal on your bill. Utility businesses hate to lose customers – and if you’re a long-term client, you’re in a great position to negotiate a new rate.

Green the garden, keep the greenbacks Keep your garden green without an expensive water bill: pop a rustic rainwater barrel near your downpipe and enjoy lush plants all summer long. Don’t spend on expensive plant food – compost responsibly and be proud of an organic home harvest.

Use technology for good Cut down on movie downloads and instead use your iPhone or Android to benefit your hip pocket. Use clever budgeting apps like Pocketbook and TrackMySpend to monitor expenditure and reach savings goals.