A household guide to spending wisely
Spend less on the things that don't matter, so there's more for the things that do.
SAVED is a practical guide to running a household for less: cooking and groceries, home energy, repairs, smarter shopping, budgeting basics and family life, written in plain English without gimmicks or get-rich-quick promises.
How to organise bills, receipts, warranties, contracts and personal documents on paper or digitally, how long to keep different records, and how to dispose of them safely.
7 min readThe most economical protein foods, how to cook dried pulses in batches, how to stretch meat further, and simple meals that keep everyone full for less.
8 min readHow to recognise fake online shops, phishing messages, marketplace fraud and delivery scams, which payment methods protect you, and what to do if you have been scammed.
8 min readSix storerooms
Fresh from the storeroom
A beginner's routine for bicycle care — the pre-ride check, tyre pressure, fixing a puncture, cleaning and oiling the chain, brake checks and when to visit a bike shop.
8 min readHow to cook several meals in one session, freeze them safely, label and rotate portions, and build a freezer stock that replaces expensive ready meals.
7 min readHow to plan a children's or adults' birthday party for less — setting a budget, choosing a venue, food, decorations, games, cakes and party bags — without losing the fun.
7 min readWhy impulse purchases happen, the retail and online tricks that encourage them, and practical habits such as waiting periods, lists and budgets that help you spend on purpose.
7 min readPractical ways to cut the cost of holidays — timing, flexible dates, transport, accommodation, food, activities, money abroad and insurance — without missing out on the experience.
7 min readWhere to find good second-hand goods, what to check before you pay, which items to buy used and which to buy new, and how to avoid scams on online marketplaces.
8 min readHow to calculate cost per use and total cost of ownership, when paying more for quality saves money, and when the cheapest option really is the smartest choice.
7 min readHow to plan and reduce back-to-school spending — uniforms, shoes, bags, stationery, devices, lunches and trips — with second-hand options, support schemes and timing tips.
7 min readWhere household food waste really comes from, how to store fruit, vegetables and leftovers so they last, and simple routines that keep good food out of the bin.
7 min readHow washing temperature, load size, programmes, detergent dosing and drying choices affect the cost of laundry, and simple habits that make clothes last longer.
8 min readHow to find draughts, which materials to use for doors, windows, floors, letterboxes and chimneys, and the ventilation you must never block.
8 min readWhat an emergency fund is for, how to work out a target that suits your household, where to keep the money, and practical ways to build it from a small starting amount.
8 min readThe full inventory