Are you trying to get your budget on track in 2014? Well, there are some simple things that you can do to save some extra cash this year. If this is the year you’ve decided that you want to increase your budget, which means decreasing your spending, I’m going to help you out by giving you some really way ways you can save some money this year. Now, I’m going to warn you, you’re going to live without some luxuries, but that’s part of being a frugal person and taking control of your own finances. Go ahead and scroll down to get started.

#1. Stay Away from Coffee Shops

I’m not saying you have to go without your morning coffee, but I’m definitely saying that you should stay away from coffee shops like Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, etc… There is absolutely no reason you should pay $4.00 for your caffeine fix. Instead of going to coffee shops, you should make your own coffee at home. If you have to run errands that day, you should get yourself a travel mug and take coffee with you. If you fear you’ll miss your lattes too much, you could always look up some recipes and learn how to make them on your own for quite a bit cheaper.

#2. Stay Away from Soda

Soda is not only bad for you, but it’s pretty expensive, as well. Granted, it’s not as expensive as a Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha, but it’s still money that you could put into your savings account. You pay a water bill every month, so take advantage of that and drink some water. Plus, water is better for you.

#3. Make Things from Scratch

It’s always cheaper to make things from scratch, rather than buying it pre-made at the grocery store. Pre-packaged food is more expensive and it’s loaded with preservatives. When you  make things from scratch you know exactly what’s going into the food you’re making, it’s more fresh, it’s cheaper and it’s a more healthy option.

#4. Stop Going to the Gym

This one may sound crazy, but hear me out. Gym memberships are extremely expensive; a lot of people don’t get their fair use out of a membership and most of the exercises you can do at home, anyways. Instead of going to the gym to walk on the treadmill; why not go outside and walk? You’ll save money and you’ll get to enjoy the outdoor air. If you’re taking some sort of classes or something, you could probably find instructional videos on YouTube and just do your classes at home. I find all of my yoga workouts on YouTube.

#5. Don’t Pay Full Price for Clothes

Clothes go on sale all the time, because stores try to clear out their inventory to make room for new clothing items. Therefore, if you find some clothes you really like, you could check back in a few weeks and the item of clothing will most likely be on sale. Also, you could consider shopping at second-hand stores, such as Goodwill.