Ways you can save through the cost of living price hikes

As we continue to manage the various cost-of-living challenges, putting food on the table, paying bills and affording a treat here and there are a bit tricky. So, how can you beat this crisis and have a decent quality of life?

Save on food costs

Take advantage of any supermarket offers especially if you use their points-based cards.

On Saturday 4 February only, Sainsbury’s customers will receive a big bonus on Nectar points to their customers as part of their nine day “Big Points Bonanza”. If you have a Nectar card, head over to a large Sainsburys store near you and spend over £20, scan your Nectar card or app before check out to receive your printed coupon for bonus points ranging from 50-5000 points. Remember this coupon will only be given to customers shopping in the main Sainsbury’s big stores this Saturday only. Here’s a link to help you find your nearest Sainsbury’s big store.

Other supermarket and food deals

You can take advantage of online grocery delivery discount codes.

These are a few codes that are currently available

Iceland is offering £5 off a £45 shop for first online shopping if you use code HIFIVE
Morrisons use code VOU6133089 to get 10% off a £50 shop for your first online shop, available till Sunday 5 February
Sainsbury are offering £15 off a £60 shop if you use code SCSEO23FE15 for your first online shop, available till 28 February
Ocado is offering a 25% savings in all first orders over £60 and unlimited free deliveries for 3 months, you must use code VOU8218197. This is valid till Saturday 1 April.

You can also find some supermarket coupons and freebies on the MoneySavingExpert’s website.

Remember to also look out for offers with Tesco Clubcard, Aldi deals, Lidl and Asda.

Save on travel costs

Trains/Underground

If you travel by train you can pre-book your train tickets to save money or if travelling to and around London you can get free or discounted tickets.

It’s also worth thinking about the benefits of swapping the train for a coach. Coach tickets are cheaper than train tickets if you’re not in a hurry to get somewhere.

Discounted bus tickets

If you travel by bus, you can get discounted weekly or monthly bus tickets depending on where you live and which bus company is in charge of the buses you take.

Next time you take a bus, ask your driver about discounted tickets. Or ask them what is the best ticket to travel with for the whole day, especially if you’re travelling as a family. Some family tickets or day returns are cheaper than single fair tickets, and vice versa, depending on where you’re travelling to.

Also, check for offers with Arriva bus, Stage coach and National express

Try cycling

If you can ride a bicycle, now’s the time to think about cycling for your commute to shops, nearby work places and visiting friends who live nearby.

You’ll be saving on fuel, cutting down on carbon emissions and getting physically fit as well as mentally refreshed after being outdoors. Get sturdy, decent and low-cost bikes with servicing from Halfords.

Car Insurance

If you have no choice but to drive, try and look around for the best deals.

It’s worth checking if you can save on your car insurance before renewal and the anticipated increase this year. Try a car insurance comparison tool to check if you’re getting the best deal.

Don’t forget, if you don’t ask sometimes, you never get or find out what’s on offer. Next time you go out shopping or travelling, speak to the assistants and ask if there are any offers available.

Take a look at our cost of living support hub for more advice on getting through the cost-of-living crisis.