A woman has shared how she has saved £20,000 by limiting her spending to £10 a week – including food and toiletries.
Marion Tracey, from Letchworth, Hertfordshire, first became interested in money-saving after watching US TV shows about coupon queens.
The 41-year-old began researching how to use this method herself, as well as looking into cash-back apps and other solutions to pinch the pennies.
It has been life-changing, with Marion, a recruitment consultant, going from spending up to £100 a week on goods to just £10.
And she says it’s helped her build up a property deposit to buy her first home.
“I have been saving properly for about four years,” she told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“I wanted to buy my first home and I knew I couldn’t do it without tightening my finances.
“I ended up being able to save £10,000 in a year and a half, to use towards my deposit.
“There is no way I could have bought this house without cashback apps and coupon shopping.”
Marion has also shared some advice for other people hoping to squeeze more out of their money.
Her first tip? Join the super-saver community.
She said: “Firstly, follow other savvy shoppers on social media, they will share if places have discounts, tricks, and tips you can pick up on.
“Also join cash-back apps or banks that have good interest rates.
“You should also join a list and make sure you stick to it whilst shopping.
“And find coupons wherever you can, online or in newspapers.”
She also advises you to look out for deals and to stock up when you can.
Marion said: “Go to big supermarkets the day before a bank holiday as they normally reduce the next day’s stuff, so there are more bargains to be had.
“I spend at least two hours a week, checking offers, writing lists, and researching.
“I only ever buy clearance toiletries, I once bought 25 shower gels from Superdrug priced at 10p each.
“They ended up lasting me just under a year!”
Marion’s family and friends are also huge supporters of her skills and go to her when they need help.
She added: “They love it, a lot of them have also started to do it too.
“Once you’re hooked you can’t stop!
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help from other savvy shoppers, we are a wonderful community and we all want to help.
“Never be embarrassed to pick up clearance items, do it and hold your head up!”
