Is it possible to be rich in your twenties? Eh, maybe not rich but I think you can certainly live comfortably. As 22 year olds, we’re not sitting in piles of money. However, with a few tricks and some self control we have discovered that you can have a great life living on $16.50/hr.
Here’s how:
1. Coupons.
Do not be embarrassed about using coupons. Coupons are cool if they get you 2 meals for the price of 1. Groupon is our bestie. Just yesterday we discovered a 4-6 day trip to the Domincan Republic, with airfare, for as low as $569. That’s right, WITH AIRFARE. On Groupon you can buy clothes, beauty products, tickets to events, book a hotel and much more. Read the fine print of course, but we’ve never had any problems.
2. Set a Budget and stick to it.
I have a $70/month clothes allowance. That may seem low, but when you can buy a cute top from TJ Maxx or H&M for under $20, that’s enough. If I don’t spend all $70 one month, it gets pushed over to the next month.
3. Restaurant Specials.
Many restaurants have daily menu specials. Take advantage of these! Cafe Carolina, a favorite of ours, has a different lunch special every day for $6.49. For our Raleighites, check out Raleigh Specials Tonight.
4. Pack your lunch.
Eating out can add up! Save that money for nice dinners or a manicure. I try to pack my lunch 4 times a week and treat myself to lunch out once a week. Bagged lunches don’t have to be boring! There are endless ways to make a sandwich.
5. Cut back on the alcohol.
Gone are the days of dartying (day party) and endless nights out. Drinking less helps your wallet and your health. If you must, ask what the specials are.
6. Take off the fake nails.
Pretty nails are nice, we’ll admit. But, they are expensive! Getting a manicure should be a treat not a necessity. You can get your nails painted with gel polish and they will last up to a month and only cost you about $20.
7. Public Transit
If you live in a dense urban area with a great public transit system, use it! Gas is cheap these days, but it still adds up. Riding on the bus, train, metro, etc., is a great and affordable way for you and your friends to get somewhere and not have to pay for gas and parking.
What are some way y’all cut costs?
Adultish 