While the temperature drops in winter, what goes up are your expenses. Habits change when the weather turns cooler and this usually has an impact on your bank balance. To help you stick to your monthly budget, here are the winter costs you’ll need to prepare for.
FOOD
The salads that we love to eat in summer will be replaced by hearty soups, stews and roasts, which means you will use more electricity when cooking. If you grow vegetables at home, you’ll soon have less produce to pick and will have to buy more fresh items from the store. You’ll also pay more if you select imported goods rather than choosing seasonal, local produce. When the weather turns foul, there’s also more temptation to order takeaways, so you don’t have to leave home. Tip: Cook in bulk and freeze leftovers.
ILLNESS
Your medical expenses increase in winter. From flu injections to daily vitamins and supplements – these costs can quickly add up. In addition, if you fall ill and visit your doctor, you’ll have to pay for the appointment and any medication that is prescribed to you. Tip: Boost your immune system by taking extra vitamins.
ELECTRICITY
It gets darker earlier and the sun rises later, which means you’ll be keeping the lights on for longer. You also become more of a home body when the weather is bad, and this usually means spending more time on your computer, or watching TV or movies. Tip: Turn off the TV and play a board game with the family.
HEATING
Everyone wants a snug home in winter and even with blankets and jerseys, you’ll probably still turn on the heaters or light a fire. To keep beds toasty, people also turn to electric blankets or hot water bottles. Tip: Only heat the room you’re in.
WATER
While you may have a quick, lukewarm shower in summer, in winter you have the water hotter and tend to stay in the shower for longer. In the colder season many people also prefer to bath. Both of these actions use more water. You’ll also drink more hot beverages to warm you up from the inside. Tip: Boil the exact amount of water you need.
POOL
There’s little chance of a winter dip, but you still need to maintain your pool during the cold months. Good maintenance in winter lessens the chance of costly repairs in summer. Continue running your pool pump (albeit less frequently), adding in chlorine and maintaining water levels. Tip: Use a pool cover to stop debris entering your pool.
CLOTHING
Jerseys, jackets, boots, scarves, beanies, gloves, slippers and don’t forget that fluffy dressing gown. Whether you need to replace worn winter clothing or you’re after the latest fashion items, replacing wardrobe items can be a costly exercise. Tip: Layer clothes to keep out the winter chill. Winter is on its way but by tweaking a few habits, you’ll be able to save costs and protect your budget. Here are five other ways that you can reduce your electricity usage and, thereby, your monthly expenses. At bsmart we aim to help our members live smart, spend smart and save smart, and we do this by sharing helpful information and advice. We also help members save by paying out cashback bonuses every three months or annually. To learn more contact us or click here to sign up directly through our website. Disclaimer: bsmart does not provide financial advice. The above article is for information purposes only, to share current economic and financial topics and trends. Please consult a suitable and qualified financial services provider if you require financial advice.