Of all the economic problems that arise, inflation is among the most destructive. When prices rise, every dollar earned is worth less, making it even more challenging to make ends meet.
Saving for the future may take a back seat during inflation and even after prices stabilize, putting families behind in their savings goals. To preserve wealth and buying power, a strategy is needed for survival. Here are some valuable inflation-fighting tips to start today:
Make Room in Your Budget by Eliminating Those Nuisance Fees
With every dollar worth less, no one can afford to waste them. So now is the time to get rid of those monthly bank service fees, ATM charges, and other costs that may be lingering.
Beat Inflation by Banishing Food Waste
The only thing worse than spending more at the grocery store is watching those dollars disappear into the trash or down the garbage disposal. With inflation on the rise, it has never been more essential to banish food waste. Embrace those leftovers, freeze the excess, or share the bounty with those in need.
Preserve Your Spending Power by Stocking Up on Shelf-Stable Staples
Even with prices on the rise, there are bargains to be had. When deals pop up, it is time to stock up. Filling the pantry with pasta boxes, jarred sauce, and canned vegetables will be good for future finances, so clear some space and start shopping.
Save Money with Meatless Meals
With the price of meat rising faster than other grocery store staples, now could be the time to embrace an inner vegetarian. Maybe a meatless Monday is a way to experiment. Of course, giving up meat entirely isn’t necessary, but eating meatless one or two days a week could make a big difference in the size of monthly grocery bills.
Protect Your Budget By Avoiding Major Purchases During Periods of High Inflation
If you are contemplating a major purchase, ask if it is something you can live without. If so, putting it off until the worst of the inflation spike is over might result in considerable savings.
Seek Out Inflation Friendly Investments
If extra cash is available to save and invest, looking for products that benefit from inflation is smart. From government savings bonds that track the rate of inflation to stocks of companies with rising earnings, these smart money investments could be suitable for the short term and the long term. Consult a financial advisor for the best options.
Optimize Your Budget and Fuel Economy
The price of gas has been especially problematic of late, and inflation at the pump is surely one of the most painful aspects of rising prices. Looking for ways to maximize fuel economy can have an outsized influence in this environment. Think about the way you drive as well as how many miles are traveled. Are there other, less expensive transportation options available? Can you carpool with a coworker?
Inflation is nothing new, and rising prices have arisen in decades past. When prices are rising, it is easy to despair, but it is important to realize that spending power can be retained. Solving the Federal Reserve dilemma or controlling the larger economy might not be an option, but the ability to make strategic changes to how you shop, drive, cook, and live your daily life still exists. The seven inflation-fighting tips listed above may help make the most of those shrinking dollars.