Category: Money Saving Ideas

How to Save Money Using Google: A Practical Guide

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on How to Save Money Using Google: A Practical Guide

Save money using Google

How to Save Money Using Google: A Practical Guide

Google is more than just a search engine. It’s a powerhouse of tools and services that, when used wisely, can save you a significant amount of money. Whether shopping, traveling, running a business, or managing your daily expenses, Google has built-in features to help you cut costs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to leverage Google’s tools to save money on everything from groceries to flights to software subscriptions.

1. Use Google Shopping for Price Comparisons

One of the easiest ways to save money with Google is by using Google Shopping. Instead of browsing multiple websites for the best price, type the product name into Google and select the “Shopping” tab. Google will show prices from different retailers, including shipping costs and discounts.

Pro Tip:

  • Use the price tracking feature to receive alerts when prices drop.
  • Sort results by “Lowest price” to find the best deal quickly.

2. Set Price Alerts with Google Flights

If you’re planning a trip, Google Flights is a game-changer. Instead of checking airfare manually daily, use Google Flights’ price tracking feature. Enter your destination and travel dates, and Google will notify you when ticket prices go up or down.

Pro Tip:

  • Use the explore tool to find budget-friendly destinations.
  • Look for the cheapest travel days using Google Flights’ calendar view.

3. Find Coupons and Discounts with Google Search

Before making any purchase, do a quick Google search for discount codes or coupons. Just type “[store name] promo code” or “[product name] discount” into the search bar.

Pro Tip:

  • To avoid expired codes, use Google’s “Tools” filter to search for coupons posted within the last month.
  • Google also highlights automatic discounts when shopping through Chrome.

4. Use Google Opinion Rewards for Free Credits

Google Opinion Rewards is a free app that gives you Google Play credits for answering short surveys. You can use these credits to buy apps, movies, books, or even pay for YouTube Premium.

Pro Tip:

  • Enable location tracking to get more surveys and maximize rewards.

5. Save on Subscriptions with Google One

Many people pay for multiple cloud storage services unnecessarily. Switching to Google One can be more cost-effective if you’re using Dropbox or iCloud. It provides storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Photos at competitive prices.

Pro Tip:

  • Family Plan Sharing: Share your Google One subscription with up to five family members at no extra cost.

6. Use Google Sheets for Budgeting

Instead of paying for budgeting software, use Google Sheets. Many free budgeting templates can help you track your expenses, income, and savings goals.

Pro Tip:

  • Try the Google Sheets budget tracker template to automate calculations.
  • Use Google Finance functions to track stock investments in real time.

7. Leverage Google Maps for Cheaper Gas and Deals

Gas prices fluctuate daily, and Google Maps can help you find the cheapest gas stations near you. Search for “gas stations near me,” and Google will list prices alongside each location.

Pro Tip:

  • Enable Google Pay for loyalty rewards and discounts at participating stations.
  • Use Google Maps’ Explore tab for discounts at nearby restaurants and businesses.

8. Find Free Events and Activities with Google Events

Instead of paying for entertainment, use Google to find free local events. Type “free events near me” into Google to pull up a list of concerts, festivals, and workshops.

Pro Tip:

  • Use Google Calendar to set reminders for free events, so you don’t forget.

9. Avoid Subscription Overcharges with Google Play

Many people forget to cancel free trials and pay for services they don’t use. Google Play tracks subscriptions and makes it easy to cancel unused ones.

Pro Tip:

  • Open Google Play > Payments & Subscriptions to review and cancel unnecessary charges.

10. Use Google Books for Free eBooks

Instead of spending money on books, check Google Books first. Many classic and educational books are available for free.

Pro Tip:

  • Search “free eBooks” in Google Books to see a collection of available titles.

11. Get Cash Back with Google Pay

Google Pay often runs promotions that give you cashback on everyday purchases, from groceries to online shopping. Link your credit or debit card to Google Pay and check for available offers.

Pro Tip:

  • Check the Rewards tab in Google Pay for active cashback deals.

12. Use Google Lens to Find Cheaper Alternatives

Google Lens allows you to scan an item and find it online at a lower price. Just take a photo of a product, and Google will show you cheaper options.

Pro Tip:

  • Use Google Lens at retail stores to see if the product is available online for less.

13. Monitor Your Energy Usage with Google Nest

Google’s Nest Thermostat can help you reduce heating and cooling costs by automatically learning your habits and adjusting temperatures.

Pro Tip:

  • Many utility companies offer rebates for installing a Google Nest thermostat, so check for available discounts.

14. Use Google Alerts to Monitor Deals

Set up Google Alerts for specific products you want to buy. Google will notify you when there’s news about sales or discounts.

Pro Tip:

  • Create an alert for “best deals on [product name]” and check your email for updates.

15. Save on Communication with Google Voice and Meet

Instead of paying for extra phone services, use Google Voice for free calls and texts in the U.S. You can also use Google Meet for free video conferencing instead of Zoom or Skype Premium.

Pro Tip:

  • Link your Google Voice number to multiple devices for easier access.

Final Thoughts

Google isn’t just a tech giant—it’s a money-saving powerhouse when used wisely. Whether shopping smarter, tracking flights, or cutting unnecessary subscriptions, Google’s free tools and features can help you keep more money in your pocket.

Start applying these Google tricks today and watch your savings grow!

Money Saving Ideas, Uncategorized

Top Five Ways to Save Money at Meijer Stores

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Top Five Ways to Save Money at Meijer Stores


Shopping at Meijer stores can be a cost-effective experience if you use their money-saving options. Here are five strategies you can use to save money at Meijer:

  1. mPerks Program: Meijer’s mPerks is a digital savings program where customers can earn rewards and access digital coupons. By signing up, you can select and clip digital coupons directly deducted from your bill when you check out. The mPerks program also offers personalized deals based on your shopping history.
  2. Weekly Ads: Before heading to the store, check Meijer’s weekly ad either online or in print. These ads typically showcase the week’s best deals, including discounts on groceries, electronics, and other products.
  3. Seasonal Sales: Meijer often has sales during major holidays or at the change of seasons. For instance, many themed items will go on clearance after a holiday. This can be a great time to stock up on non-perishable holiday items for the following year or to get a deal on seasonal clothing.
  4. Buy in Bulk: Consider buying in bulk for non-perishable goods or items you use frequently. The cost per unit is often lower when you buy a larger quantity. Meijer might offer deals on bulk items, especially if they have a larger “supercenter” format in your shopping location.
  5. Generic Brands: Like many other stores, Meijer offers its own store-brand or generic items, often priced lower than name-brand counterparts. These Meijer-branded products usually provide the same quality but at a fraction of the price.

Additionally, consider planning your shopping trips around the sales and deals you want to take advantage of and make a list to avoid impulse purchases. Shopping with a strategy can help you make the most of Meijer’s money-saving opportunities.

Have a beautiful day!

~Kelly

Good Deal Alert, Money Saving Ideas

Top 5 Best Free Budgeting Tools 2023

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Top 5 Best Free Budgeting Tools 2023

Good morning my fabulous frugal friends! As promised in my earlier post-Top 10 Ways to Save Money in Illinois, I promised to share everything I have done in the last year to save money. So without further ado, here are some of my favorite budgeting tools that are available for free.

I have found that once you become more cognisant of where your money is going, you tend to make better financial decisions altogether. For example, I never realized how much money I spent at Starbucks until I started tracking my expenditures, and I spent at least $50 a week there. When you start to really think about it, that’s $2,600 a year on coffee alone!

Coming in at number one is Intuit Mint. I can personally tell you that this has been this freebie has been most instrumental in my personal financial journey. How does it work, you ask? For starters, you can see all your accounts in one place. In addition, you get a bill payment tracker, budgeting goal tracker, budget alerts, and your free credit score. It even lets you categorize your bank transactions!

  1. Mint: Mint is a free budgeting tool that allows you to connect all your financial accounts in one place. It automatically categorizes your expenses and provides personalized budgeting advice. Start reaching your financial goals with powerful tools, personalized insights, and more. Sign up for free here.
  2. Personal Capital: Personal Capital is a free budgeting tool that offers a comprehensive view of your financial situation, including your investments, net worth, and spending. It also provides personalized investment advice.
  3. EveryDollar: EveryDollar is a free budgeting tool that helps you create a monthly budget and track your spending. It offers a free version and a paid version with additional features.
  4. PocketGuard: PocketGuard is a free budgeting tool that helps you track your spending and create a budget. It also offers personalized saving tips.
  5. Goodbudget: Goodbudget is a free budgeting tool based on the envelope system. You can set up virtual envelopes for your expenses and track your spending in each category.

Many more free budgeting tools are available online, so it’s worth exploring a few options to find one that works best for you.

Have a great day,

~Kelly

Free, Money Saving Ideas

Top Ten Ways to Save Money in Illinois

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert 1 Comment on Top Ten Ways to Save Money in Illinois

Good Friday morning to you all! I was sitting here early this morning thinking about everything I have done in the last year to save money. That is when the idea popped into my head to create this list. The beauty of this is that many of these ideas can be implemented in other areas of the United States. Over the coming weeks, I will be elaborating further on each topic. I know that many of these ideas are very elementary, but I assure you that even if you only use one or two, you’ll save money.

  1. Create a budget: Create a monthly budget to track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back.
  2. Use public transportation: Illinois has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, which can save you money on gas and car expenses.
  3. Cook at home: Eating out can be expensive, so try cooking meals at home to save money. You can also save money by buying groceries in bulk and planning your meals ahead of time.
  4. Use coupons and discount codes: Look for coupons and discount codes before making purchases online or in-store. You can also check out cashback apps or browser extensions to save money.
  5. Take advantage of free events: Illinois has many free events, including concerts, festivals, and museum days, which can help you save money on entertainment.
  6. Negotiate bills: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your bills, such as your cable or internet bill, to save money. You can also shop around for better deals from different providers.
  7. Use energy-efficient appliances: Illinois can have extreme temperatures during the summer and winter. Using energy-efficient appliances can save you money on your utility bills.
  8. Avoid unnecessary expenses: Be mindful of unnecessary expenses, such as subscription services you don’t use or impulse purchases. Cut back on these expenses to save money.
  9. Buy second-hand: Consider buying second-hand items, such as clothes or furniture, instead of new ones. You can find good deals at thrift stores or online marketplaces.
  10. Maintain good credit: Maintaining good credit can help you save money on interest rates and fees. Pay your bills on time and keep your credit card balances low to maintain good credit.

I hope you have a good day,

~Kelly

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Illinois, Money Saving Ideas

Amazon Finds: Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Shreds $12.90

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Amazon Finds: Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Shreds $12.90

As most of you know I am always on the lookout for great deals on bulk and long-term food storage. I have especially become a fan of the Augason Farms products because most of their items have an unopened shelf-life of 20 to 30 years! When you buy long-term food storage you are protecting yourself from high inflation. Their stainless steel #10 cans are pest free and will survive most natural disasters because they even float!

For just $12.90 you get a  #10 can of dehydrated potato shreds.

  • Up to 25-year shelf life, 21 servings total
  • Institutional size (#10) can
  • Certified Gluten Free
  • Perfect for Food Storage, Emergencies, Survival, Camping, and Everyday Use!

Peace be with you,

Kelly

This post may contain affiliate links. These affiliate links help support the www.midwestmoneysaversavers.com website. Please see my disclosure policy for more information. Thank you for your continued support of Midwest Money Savers.

Amazon Finds, Money Saving Ideas, Prepping

Save 45% on Augason Farms Honey Powder

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Save 45% on Augason Farms Honey Powder

As most of you know I am always on the lookout for great deals on bulk and long-term food storage. I have especially become a fan of the Augason Farms products because most of their items have an unopened shelf-life of 20 to 30 years! When you buy long-term food storage you are protecting yourself from high inflation. Their stainless steel #10 cans are pest free and will survive most natural disasters because they even float!

For just $13.82 you get a 3-pound #10 can of honey powder. At just $1.38 an ounce, this deal will certainly not last long.

  • 30-year shelf life, 340 servings total
  • 3 lb, institutional size (#10) can
  • For emergency food storage, camping, or everyday use


Peace be with you,

Kelly

This post may contain affiliate links. These affiliate links help support midwestmoneysaversour site. Please see my disclosure policy for more information. Thank you for your continued support of Midwest Money Savers.

Money Saving Ideas, Prepping

How to Make Cardboard Briquettes via Totally Chilled

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on How to Make Cardboard Briquettes via Totally Chilled

Here is another money-saving video that I came across on the Totally Chilled  YouTube channel. What a great idea to reuse and repurpose cardboard and sawdust. Up here on the mountain, we have plenty of these two things available.  I am definitely going to make this one of my top Spring and Summer projects. Best of all, I can turn this into a family project to keep the kiddos busy when they’re bored this Summer!

Please commit below if you decide to try this project.

~Kelly

Money Saving Ideas

My Citrus Money Saving Hack

Posted on By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on My Citrus Money Saving Hack


Did I ever come across a great deal at Woodman’s Market in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. One of the first things that I always do when I shop is to head straight to the produce department to check out the markdowns. And let me tell you today’s visit did not disappoint.  Each one of these items was priced at just .99¢ with the exception of the head of lettuce which was .49¢ Yes, even the vegetable tray!

Once home, I opened my bag containing the citrus. For the most part, everything was pretty fresh. I only had to discard one lime because the skin was rock hard. Next, I cut the limes in half and squeezed them to express their juice.










  • I then measured out ¼ cup of juice and put it in each of the snack bags.



    I removed as much as air I could from the bags and placed them on a paper plate to freeze. I ended up with 8 bags of fresh-squeezed lime juice. Finally, I placed all the bags in a freezer bag to keep them as fresh as possible.

    As for the other vegetables in my haul: I used them to make stuffed green peppers, a healthy salad for our lunch, BLT sandwiches, Elizabeth Rider’s black bean and quinoa salad, and a veggie snack with healthy ranch dip made with Greek yogurt. Not bad for spending about $5.49.

    ~Kelly

Money Saving Ideas