Penny Pinching tips from Valley News readers

One way we save money is by checking out books and movies from the library. Just don’t forget to return them by the due date or this tip won’t work for you.

Jason

Lake Elsinore

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I recently discovered a bin at my grocery store where they put items such as name brand lunch meats, sausage and cheese. The items are close to expiration date but still good.

The prices are great at $1 or $2 for items usually four times that amount. We pop them in the freezer as soon as we get home and take them out as we need them.

Sharon

Temecula

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We spent time online and found all the local municipal recreational events in the area and added them to our family calendar with times, dates and cost (if any). Now, we know in advance things to do that are low-cost and don’t feel that we are depriving ourselves of fun.

We also give the children a set amount to spend while we are there. They have to learn to budget the money and aren’t asking us to pay for more than we can afford.

Jean

Murrieta

This summer we are not driving to the beach except if we are camping for the weekend. We are working out pool play days with our friends, sort of potluck events with pre-planned menus and themes.

The big thing to remember is that no one should take advantage of the host. Bring your own towels and make sure that your children know the rules of the house.

We think that by not spending $40 on gas we can justify $10 worth of ice cream sundae fixings.

Karen and Jeff

Temecula