How to cover costs on a lockdown budget

THE nation-wide lockdown has had a crippling effect on those who have lost their jobs or faced pay cuts as businesses came to a stand still or closed. Adapting to times has been crucial for many. The Northglen News asked a few Durban North residents to share their tips on how to save money and stay afloat in these trying times.

Athlone resident, Laura Offer who is undertaking her first year of articles to become a Charted Accountant, has been unable to work or earn a living during lockdown. As she lives alone, her tips are tailored to a single person. She opts for frozen vegetables to curb her grocery spending.

“I only buy frozen vegetables (apart from potatoes, tomatoes, onions and the sort). I find that fresh veggies don’t last long enough for me to eat them before they start going off, which ends up wasting money and food,” she said.The thrifty shopper also saves electricity by drip drying clothes instead of using the tumble dryer, limiting air-con use and ensuring lights are turned off when she’s not in a room.”

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“Second hand shops are absolute treasure troves. There are so many bargains to be had,” she added.

For Durban North resident, Carryn Leigh Smith planning ahead of a grocery shop is key.

“Shop around for specials. Check the inserts in the newspaper or go online before you go to the shop and make a list. This makes it easier to stick to a list, because you don’t suddenly see things on special and suddenly say, ‘I might need that.’ Having a budget also helps keep you from buying more than you can spend. Use a calculator in the shop to keep to your limit,” she said.

Annelize Oellermann, a Glenhills resident who works in the finance industry said cancelling unnecessary debit orders, checking your bank statement and being mindful of electricity usage is also key.

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“Unplug unnecessary appliances as they still draw power even if you switch the plug off, switch lights off and open the curtain for natural light. Only do full loads of washing or handwash if things are really tight,” she said.

Money can be saved by knowing and adapting your insurance cover, added Oellermann.

“Talk to your broker to negotiate rates, then adapt your cover. For example, if you are home you don’t need specified all risks as all risks cover items outside your house and most of the time these items are covered under your contents section when you are home,” she said.Having a menu plan and sticking to it during the grocery shop is another great money saver,” concluded Oellermann.

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