Post: #76

I've always been a really thrifty guy, my only problem though is that I burn too much money nightgaming.

Post: #77

(10-07-2014 04:18 PM)civpro Wrote:  I've always been a really thrifty guy, my only problem though is that I burn too much money nightgaming.

[video=youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Y3RbJEh6og
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Post: #78

(10-07-2014 01:21 AM)tpiddy Wrote:  Clothing is important but for most of us looking good has little to do with the cost of the clothes. We all probably just need to hit the gym and put down the cupcakes, cronuts and heavy wheat beers and IPAs. After that it is mostly about fit. You can buy cheaper clothes and take them to a tailor and out dress most people. Unbranded jeans are nice and levis even has some nice raw jeans. Uniqlo has some good basics for the price. If you aren't wearing sneakers, one place you can't really skimp is shoes.

So you say, but I can't compromise on things like fabric quality and build quality. Suits for example, are vastly more comfortable when they're made out of wool rather than synthetics (or linen for hot climates).

As for shoes, I think a good welted shoe can be had new for a surprisingly low price if you're prepared for something that wasn't made in Britain/USA/Italy/France. Shopping around on eBay, I can find a pair of Goodyear welted brogues for £50 or so. I would argue there are no cheaper pairs of shoes than that, when you consider the longevity of replaceable soles. Get some rubber glued on the bottom and you'll save serious money, if that's what you're into.

Post: #79

+1 OP

Post: #80

I called to cancel my direct TV today. The customer retention rep gave me $35 off a month for the next year and free NBA League pass (which I do buy every year and was planning to go all digital). Usual price of that is $200. I know I could have still cancelled, but that was a pretty sweet deal, so I stuck with it.

Bill went from about $130 a month (for the next 5-6 months due to league pass being paid in installments of 40 bucks) to $54 a month. Not bad at all.

Post: #81

Post: #82

Anyone know of a thread on here that is just about cutting the cord from cable? I searched a bit no luck. But a lot of people on this thread gave up cable. Just trying to figure out how best to do that. I still like watchign certain chows, news, etc. So trying to figure a way to get access to certain content. And recording. Been reading reddit cord cutters but there is so much tech out there.

Post: #83

(02-03-2015 10:27 PM)samsamsam Wrote:  Anyone know of a thread on here that is just about cutting the cord from cable? I searched a bit no luck. But a lot of people on this thread gave up cable. Just trying to figure out how best to do that. I still like watchign certain chows, news, etc. So trying to figure a way to get access to certain content. And recording. Been reading reddit cord cutters but there is so much tech out there.

It's not that bad unless you are obsessed with live pro sports. All news is online, and it's actually nicer to download shows on torrents or netflix cuz it's commercial free...

Post: #84

Pay "in bulk".

Spotify for a year is 11 months price instead of paying monthly.

Team Treehouse for a year is cheaper if you pay for a whole year instead of month to month.

I use slickdeals a lot, especially for t-mobile cards as I can stock up on those and get up to 20% discount.

Not to mention it's more convenient knowing I have something paid for far in advance.

Oh, and I bought a kindle and uploaded a shitload of books to it, for free.

Post: #85

(02-03-2015 10:50 PM)komatiite Wrote:  

(02-03-2015 10:27 PM)samsamsam Wrote:  Anyone know of a thread on here that is just about cutting the cord from cable? I searched a bit no luck. But a lot of people on this thread gave up cable. Just trying to figure out how best to do that. I still like watchign certain chows, news, etc. So trying to figure a way to get access to certain content. And recording. Been reading reddit cord cutters but there is so much tech out there.

It's not that bad unless you are obsessed with live pro sports. All news is online, and it's actually nicer to download shows on torrents or netflix cuz it's commercial free...

Well this called Sling is coming out which seems to address sports needs. And my news needs though CNN isn't the best. I am thinking this plus netflix and some like hulu plus an antenna could cover a decent amount. I'll get my sister's HBO account.

Anyone know of other accounts you need to access shows on cable? Like HBO, I'll just grab them from my sister. Looks like AMC is like that also.

Sling offers the following:
The core, $20-a-month, no-contract "Best of Live TV" package includes ESPN and ESPN2, TNT and TBS, plus Food Network, HGTV, Travel Channel, Cartoon Network/Adult Swim, Disney Channel, ABC Family and CNN.

Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/business/te...HfiwM3U.99

Post: #86

(02-03-2015 10:50 PM)komatiite Wrote:  

(02-03-2015 10:27 PM)samsamsam Wrote:  Anyone know of a thread on here that is just about cutting the cord from cable? I searched a bit no luck. But a lot of people on this thread gave up cable. Just trying to figure out how best to do that. I still like watchign certain chows, news, etc. So trying to figure a way to get access to certain content. And recording. Been reading reddit cord cutters but there is so much tech out there.

It's not that bad unless you are obsessed with live pro sports. All news is online, and it's actually nicer to download shows on torrents or netflix cuz it's commercial free...

Also, if you have Amazon Prime that opens up a lot of content. If you shop a lot on Amazon it's worth it, plus they have a lot of music available on prime now as well as Kindle content.

If you do have prime they have the Fire stick which you can plug into the USB on your TV (should have one if it's been made in last 4 years or so) and get all the netflix, amazon, hulu off the Fire stick.

Post: #87

I have seen someone offering a Cable like service that is a one time payment of $100 and lasts until you move........I thought it was just stolen cable at first but you are able to watch new theater movies and PPV....you just need a modern tv and Wifi

Post: #88

(08-12-2014 11:12 AM)poledaddy Wrote:  I think the 800lb gorilla that hasn't been touched yet is alcohol costs. It's amazing to me how much people will complain about the cost of healthy food or organic, etc - and then they think nothing of blowing $100-200 on booze every weekend.

I speak from experience. I look in Mint.com in years past and see how much I used to blow on alcohol, it's insane. I've actually heard people say when discussing this topic "oh well that's the cost of my social life" and act like they wouldn't have fun otherwise - bullshit.

At the same time I'm not to the end of the spectrum that says "no alcohol" period as the only way to go. I enjoy a moderate buzz to unwind after working all week and get into the present moment. Total respect for the guys cutting completely.

Things I've been doing to cut down alcohol spend/consumption that I wish I had started earlier:

1) Don't drink so damn much. Order waters or even diet cokes. I know there's aspartame but I had a hard time staying on track with just water. Compared to the negative health effects of excess drinking it's a tradeoff I'm willing to take.
2) Eating healthy & exercising = lower tolerance, less drinks you need to get a decent buzz.
3) Having a strong drink at my place at the beginning of the night- and then "coasting" on that. For me (and I've timed/tested this beyond a shadow of a any doubt) alcohol takes 2-3 hours to work it's way through my system.
4) Having go-to excuses for people trying to get you to drink more, that will end the conversation quickly or change the subject. Personally I've found you gotta have it on hand because if you forget, it's too easy to say yes if you already have a buzz going. I usually say training for a jiu-jitsu tournament, have to cut weight, or have a hard practice in the morning, can't be hungover.
5) Flasks- If for whatever reason you really want to maintain a solid buzz for a long night or day drinking session, pack one of those plastic disposable flasks - they are a few bucks and slide easily into your pants pocket. If my initial drink wears off, get a coke or club soda and then mix the shots in the bathroom or wherever.
6) Kratom. Learned about this stuff from Chris/GLL- it's been a lot of fun so far and I definitely cut down on alcohol use since I started experimenting with it.

I usually just pregame enough that ill be fine for the night. If im going to a concert or a club ill put 1 or 2 pocket shots in my boxers

when im drunk i tend to spend money so i bring very minimal cash ($20 mainly if i need a cab) and then i give my credit card to my friend and tell him dont give it back until we leave

Post: #89

and going out to eat everyday for lunch adds up. Bringing my lunch the past few weeks has really added up

Post: #90

The biggest thing you can do to curb expenses is by changing your attitude. I like going out to the movies, restaurants, drinking etc... but I'm also cool with just chilling at home, or not drinking at all when out. You've gotta learn to have fun sober. Or take a dosage of something like Phenibut when going out (lowers your alcohol tolerance?) and get smashed for a lot less money. In addition eating right, exercising and cutting back will lower your tolerance.

- Cut back/cut out expensive habits like smokes/crystal meth/cocaine (maybe switch out for an e-cig?)
- Cook and bring lunches to work
- Buy very high quality clothes so that you're not constantly buying new stuff that ruins.. buy quality in general actually but always in cash or you can't afford it.
- Find an inexpensive way to get out with your friends, my group likes shisha. $10 for 2 hours, 4 people.. just chill and possibly grab a bite to eat as well
- Get your cell phone bill in check
- Cut out cable if possible.. i know this is a big thing here right now

Other things are cutting out the gym membership... still haven't gotten around to it because I can't bear body weight exercises just way too damn easy. Need to buy a couple weight sets. Don't own a car, use public transport. I know not having a car sucks but it's one of the worst investments ever.

That's all i got

Post: #91

(02-05-2015 07:47 PM)TravellingSoldier Wrote:  The biggest thing you can do to curb expenses is by changing your attitude. I like going out to the movies, restaurants, drinking etc... but I'm also cool with just chilling at home, or not drinking at all when out.

Yeah. The things that you own, end up owning you.

I'm usually happiest when I desire less. I have way too much stuff.

Mostly the things that I 'buy' these days are things that give me more time and freedom, like dropping off laundry or living in a nice place.

I have no need for a new car, a tablet, all that bullshit. Brunch on the weekends, pancakes are only $15, come on guys let's gogogo.

Now that I'm making decent bank, I have to be doubly aware of the temptation of lifestyle upgrade. Man, I am happy where I am, and I would be doing what I am doing in life even if it brought me little money.

Learn the be satisfied with less and the happiness will take care of itself.

Post: #92

Just got an email from Sling inviting me to join. Only catch right now is the devices: Roku LT and higher, iOS or Android device, and PC or Mac. More devices coming soon.

I'm going to give it a whirl and report back.

Any interest in a separate cord cutting thread? I'm in the process of doing it and could write up what I've run into.

Post: #93

I started charging 1.50 for dick pics instead of just a dollar.

Post: #94

Historically speaking, I've been pretty careless with money. I think I used to have a fairly strong party lifestyle, and I think I was just completely unaware of my own spending. Now, I look at it, and it seems obvious to plan for the month ahead, make sure you are not overspending on anything and budget.

- I have started bringing in packed lunches to work, and cycling to and from work also. That really reduces my cost on a weekly basis by at least £50/$75. Probably more as when I eat out at lunch at work, I will tend to overspend on food a few days a week.
- I just realized that my phone bill is crazy expensive given how little I use it. £40/$60 a month, for something I am barely using. I am halfway through a two year contract. I can cancel the contract but have to pay the remainder of the Iphone device cost off, which is £280/$430, which sucks. But I am going to see if I can get the device cost reduced by 50% because its I lost my Iphone over 6 months ago now. Its one of those frustrating things when you realize what a drain certain things are but half the battle is becoming aware of the fact that you don't need to pay the debt and should cancel.
- I am close to cancelling my gym membership. Its only £20/$30 a month though, so kinda cheap, so I will keep it for now, but am tempted to just begin running outside, and use my bench press and dumbbells in my room instead.
-Outside of that, I am cutting down on the weekends in general. Big nights just aren't worth it anymore healthwise and are a big drain on finances obviously.
- I have started cooking more food on the weekends. I used to buy thai curry the whole time, and then realised I may as well make my own cut the price by 50%.

There are few other things but those are the main ones for me. I am going to continue to bring in packed lunch and cycle/walk to work. That is a massive help. Then secondly, I need to cancel my phone contract, which will reduce my monthly outgoings. After that is cancelled, I will notice the difference.

Its interesting, when you do cut down on expenses, you begin to realise how most people are so mindless in terms of all the shit they buy on a daily basis, unaware of how much the small purchases can add up. Food is a dangerous one as its incremental so you don't realize how much it adds up to sometimes.

Post: #95

1. Embrace rice and beans as a staple
2. Never had cable
3. Don't drink out
4. Never pay full price for anything

Where I need to fix/mistakes
1. Brand new car (insurance is atrocious)
2. Buy things I don't need because it's on sale/a deal

That being said, I'm of the mindset to spend when I want something, I plan on an increasing income instead of holding back from what I want to do.

Post: #96

- Prepare/Cook all meals for work
- Cheapest pre-paid mobile plan
- Find free means to relax (music, tv shows, reading)

These have been my practical steps to cutting down on expense's, but it's really a matter of perspective and attitude. Minimalism has played a central role in my life over the years and i've learn't how to be satisfied with less, and ultimately free'er. I use a small notebook i bought a couple of years back for travel.. it's now my one-stop source for music, information, shows, movies, books and everything else digital. I could replace it and buy a faster configuration but there's no practical need to.

The one pain in my ass that i've been unable to rid myself of is my car, the city i live in isn't set up properly for public transport and everything is spread out so a car is crucial for getting to work and around. I hope to change this in the future.. i miss Europe for this reason.

Post: #97

I think the easiest way to save money if you work a 9-5 job is by bringing a lunch. I used to spend $7-8 a day on lunch and that is a massive waste of money. You can buy a pound of some pretty quality lunch meat, cheese and bread for not that much more than I was spending on a single lunch or two.

Post: #98

This dude budgeted $21/week.

A few observations.

1) I think he is one of those annoying hipster types, that thinks whatever he says is golden
2) The amount of time spent trying to make this work, you could spend your time making more money
3) However, challenges are enjoyable, so #2 can be ignored for the sake of the challenge.

But based on this first episode, the teaser part of it, he made some good shit cheap. BUT! I think he might also be a chef or something. I don't think he lifts so he wasn't as concerned about protein.

But I am gonna watch to see what he makes.

Post: #99

OP could save even more money if he didn't eat at a restaurant for lunch every day.

Eating out < packing a lunch

Always cheaper.

Post: #100

Cut out all lunches pack own lunch

Never buy retail priced drinks at gas stations.
Always have cooler with ice packs and bottles of water / drinks in car.
I actually freeze a gallon overnight and let it thaw through the day so my drink stays cold

Use only Netflix - cancel cable tv

I buy boxes of boneless chicken breast - 40 pounds at a time for about 1.30 a pound and make frozen ground chicken for chicken burger patties.

Buy volume fruits / vegetables when on sale to freeze and make smoothies with later such as strawberry, blueberry , mango.