Protect your budget from hidden costs with a 10-minute check

Don’t wait for a big win – like a massive salary increase or a lucky break – to start saving. Saving more isn’t always about earning more; it’s about keeping more of what we already have. Every household has invisible leaks, small, recurring costs that seem minor on their own but add up quickly. Here’s how to find – and plug – them. 

Get fuel efficient (3 minutes) 

We can’t control the price at the pump, but we can control how quickly we burn through a tank. Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption by up to 5%, so check your pressure every time you fill up. Combine errands in one trip instead of several to save even more fuel. Want more? Check out “5 Tips to outsmart the next petrol hike”. 

Stop the power drain (3 minutes) 

Many appliances still draw power when plugged in. Left in the socket, they are constant, silent electricity chewers. The simplest fix is to switch off appliances at the wall when not in use. Air-fryers are also more energy-efficient, using roughly 50% less energy than traditional ovens. 

Time your grocery shop (2 minutes) 

Shopping lists help, but did you know timing your trip right could be the ultimate savings hack? Many retailers mark down fresh goods like bread, milk, and vegetables roughly 60 minutes before closing. Look for the marked-down stickers during an after-work top-up – you can often find healthy food, like chicken and fresh fruit, at 30% to 50% off. 

Protect your savings (2 minutes) 

Insurance is the wall that keeps your savings safe. If money is tight, one burst geyser or a car repair can wipe out months of progress. Without cover, you may need to dig into your savings or get a costly loan to fix the damage. Staying insured ensures that when life happens, the insurer picks up the bill – leaving your hard-earned savings untouched. Visit JustMoney Protect to explore a range of insurance options to keep your family’s future secure. 

OUR MONEY COACH PRO-TIP  

Protecting your budget starts with uncovering the small, silent leaks before they drain your bank account.  

Log in to check your credit report. 

More from the JustMoney Newsletter

5 Tips to outsmart the next petrol hike