The global lockdown has been challenging for all of us, but for many, it has had some unexpected benefits.

If you were lucky enough to be able to work from home during the lockdown, then you’ve probably built up a solid pot of savings.

From buying lunch al-desko to saving on commute cash, there are plenty of ways that you could save when working remotely without putting in any effort.

As lockdown eases, it’s easy to fall back into your old spending habits. However, by using these easy tips, you can maintain and grow your savings, which could come in handy in the future.

Set a budget and stick to it

The first step towards saving money is to set a budget and then learn how to stick to it. Many mobile apps can help you set a budget and track your payments and spending.

With a budget, you can see how much money you could save and then reward yourself with treats while still saving some of your earnings.

Setting a budget is also an ideal way to check if you’re paying too much on things or have any subscriptions that you don’t use.

With this info, you can optimise your spending and ensure that you make the most of your earnings every month.

See if you can reduce your bills

Bills are a necessary cost, but that doesn’t mean that they’re set in stone. Just because you need to have services, such as energy, doesn’t mean that you can’t save on them.

Check out ways that you can save on your energy so that you can power your home and reduce your monthly bills.

Shopping around is the best way to find savings, and you could also see if a friend has a referral link to get you a deal.

Use coupons and Loyalty programs

There are plenty of loyalty programmes out there, which might offer deals, cashback or other rewards simply for being a longstanding customer.

As such, you should see if you can find inventive ways to save on the things you love. If your favourite retailer has an app or website with deals and coupons, then you should check them out when you’re shopping online.

When you visit physical stores, you should look out for coupons and offers. Check them out to see if they’re worth the investment or if they’re not saving you as much cash as you’re spending.

Easily earn some extra cash

As well as saving your existing income, you should consider finding innovative ways to get some extra money to spend on the things you love.

For example, Lebara offers an innovative Refer and Earn programme. All you need to do is refer your friends and family to one of our cost-effective mobile phone network plans.

Our Refer and Earn programme is simple and straightforward to join. Sign up for an account, share your unique link, invite your friends, and if you get a successful referral, you’ll earn cash, which you can transfer to your bank or PayPal account.

Signing up for our referral scheme allows you to earn money to spend on the things you love, whether it’s a fun gift for a friend or a treat for yourself.

By using these tips, you can find simple but effective ways to save money successfully, as we slowly ease into the new post pandemic world.