Household budgets are already tightening as the weather turns, with countless Brits already torn between turning on their heating and making ends meet at the end of the month.
With Christmas on the horizon too, many are looking to save any penny they can find and one money-saving expert shared a few techniques to help keep cash in your pocket.
Anita Naik explained how implementing the 24-hour rule, particularly if you’re an impulse buyer, can save you hundreds of pounds every year.
The VoucherCodes.co.uk budget guru highlighted that this technique doesn’t mean you never get to purchase things you enjoy, but simply cuts back on the completely unnecessary ones.
She explained: “The 24-hour rule is a simple psychological trick that helps you evaluate your impulse purchases to avoid unnecessary spending.
“When you are ready to hit purchase, leave your item in the basket for a minimum of 24 hours, and once the time is up, re-evaluate if you’d still like to make the purchase. Nine times out of ten, the rush of dopamine will have reduced, and you will have probably changed your mind.”
Recent research by VoucherCodes.co.uk revealed billions of impulse purchases are made in the UK every year.
The average Brit spending £605 on unplanned dopamine-lead buys and 56% of shoppers end up regretting these decisions.
The 24-hour rule can be used for in-person and online shopping, potentially even making more savings on the latter.
Anita explained: “If you leave your item in the cart for a few hours, you may find you get an email with an incentive to purchase – such as a money-off discount. So, it is well worth taking the time to reconsider, as you may well be able to get the product for cheaper, too!”
Another handy tip before the winter season fully sets in is giving your home a quick check-up, and not just inside.
Anita revealed: “Blocked drains, leaky roofs, and frozen pipes are expensive headaches that can be avoided with a bit of early maintenance. Take the time now to clear your gutters, fix any small leaks, and insulate your pipes properly to prevent costly repairs later.”
