Best and easy ways to save money

Money-saving tips for car owners

Shop around for fuel

Fuel prices can vary across your local area, so it pays to know where to fill up.

On the RACV App, you can use the Fuel Finder feature to save money at the bowser, and save at selected EV charging stations.

The information is regularly updated, with specific fuel pricing from retailers across Victoria.

Save on car running costs

Pump up your tyres, pack less luggage, observe the speed limit and maintain a consistent speed - these are a few tips on how to save on fuel on a road trip.

Keep your vehicle running efficiently with a regular car service. It's money well spent because mechanical problems can be identified before they become serious and expensive to repair.

Car running costs may be a reason to consider downsizing one or more vehicles.

Ways to reduce costs at home

Home maintenance

Regular home maintenance is the key to preventing costly repairs down the track.

Cleaning your gutters  will prevent water overflow and damage to your home. Cleaning the exterior of your home can help maintain its structural integrity. Trimming trees and bushes away from the house can prevent damage and pests. It's important to know your limits and understand what types of jobs you should always leave to a qualified tradesperson.

Practise energy-saving behaviours

As well as hidden energy hogs, heating and cooling the home are some of the biggest contributors to your electricity bill, where an extra degree on your heater's thermostat can add to your energy bill.

Explore tips on how to improve energy efficiency around your home, from changing your clothes dryer to the most energy-efficient lightbulbs to use.

Upgrade old household appliances

Old fridges, dryers, dishwashers and washing machines often use more energy than newer appliances and contribute to higher energy bills. It might be more cost effective to upgrade to more energy-efficient models that could help reduce monthly energy bills.

Switch from gas to electricity

Switching from gas to electricity in your own home could be a way to save on annual energy bills. Even if you rent, there are plenty of ways to improve efficiency and reduce your energy bills. 

The Victorian government is offering a number of financial incentives to encourage households to go electric, with appliances like induction cooktops and heat pump hot water systems a way to save on energy.

Ideas for reducing your grocery bill

Be savvy at the supermarket

Weekly specials at supermarkets and grocery stores can help you save money, but remember to also check the unit pricing - that's the label below the produce, which shows the price per kilogram, per litre or per item.

Additionally, generic or home brands are usually cheaper than well-known brands. Buying in bulk can also help save you money in the long run, but only if you use all the product, otherwise you may end up with food waste.

Consider how you can save money on beef, lamb and pork by choosing the right cut, and buy vegetables when they are in season. Imported vegetables sometimes come with a higher price tag.

Try budget-friendly recipes

Try these budget-friendly recipes to create hearty, filling meals. If you double the recipe, you'll have enough food for a family of four to eat the next day.

If you want to replace your take-away coffee with a home brew, find out how to make the best cup of coffee.

Use homemade cleaning products

Cleaning products can be expensive, and they are often unnecessary. You can save money with home remedies, like using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda for a wide variety of cleaning tasks across all rooms in your home.

Not only will this keep your dishwasher and microwave clean, but you’ll also get rid of soap scum and musty smells. This old-fashioned method is one of many house cleaning tips that can save you money around the home. 

Choose reusable over disposable

In some circumstances, you can save money with refillable hand wash, shampoos, and cleaning products. In addition, single-use plastic straws, plates, and cutlery have been banned in Victoria with good reason. Consider using tea towels or cleaning cloths instead of paper towels, which not only saves on purchasing costs, but reduces waste too.

Budget friendly entertainment

Discover free attractions around Victoria

Travel and entertainment can be an expensive, particularly at peak holiday periods. Consider travelling around Victoria at off-peak times, such as short breaks midweek, to get the most out of your spend.

From Royal Botanic Gardens to 1000 Steps - Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, there are many free attractions dotted around Melbourne to discover.

Areas outside of Melbourne such as Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Mornington Peninsula and the Yarra Valley also offer many budget-friendly and free activities to enjoy on a day trip or long weekend.

Use your member discounts, benefits and rewards

Many organisations, brand and services offer discounted rates on everyday items and experiences.

RACV Members can save on a wealth of products, services, attractions, and experiences, from discounted movie tickets to cheaper glasses, airport parking, clothing, holiday stays and more. Download the RACV App to access member benefits and fuel vouchers, and compare fuel prices.

Creative ways to further reduce costs

Buy second-hand and vintage

Second-hand and vintage clothing have come into the spotlight in the fashion world. Recycling clothing is more environmentally friendly, and there are cost benefits to shopping at charity, seconds and recycling shops as well. 

Head to your local second-hand shop and forage around for some great finds. Alternatively, organise a clothes swap with friends, so that your pre-loved items get a second life, and you get the thrill of something new to wear without spending any money.

Cancel unused memberships and subscriptions

Memberships and subscriptions that aren't used are a drain on household finances. A gym membership that’s $25 a week adds up to $1300 a year, which is a lot of money if the service is not used consistently. The same goes for streaming services.

It’s worth doing an audit of all your subscriptions, which could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year.