Single Money Saver living on my own

Pink.

Suzkin wrote: »

I've just been trawling through this really interesting thread, and notice it's mostly all about FOOD! I suppose that's because it's the one essential need that's very variable.

I also feel that the government could be doing much more to help single adults who are on a very / low wage: 25% off council tax is simply not enough. I was advised AGAINST a water meter, as was told that being single, my usage doesn't make me any savings.

Just a thought: is the state/government mindset that singletons WASTE money trying to find their OH, through dating etc (and so best not give them any 'extra' money through the system)? And that a 'family' has more fundamental/sensible expenditures (i.e.more worthy of the single person)??? If so, it's absolutely ridiculous.

Hi Suzkin,

The thread is mostly about food as it's an Old Style thread and therefore on topic for this board. The best place to discuss the government's attitude towards singletons (or any other group of people) would probably be the Discussion Time board.

Pink

sarsief

Hi all, another singleton here, moved to London a couple of years ago from down under and really lived it up for the first 20 months - so much so that I am really having to restrict myself now, very hard after so long. London's night life is so addictive and there is always something to do!

Great to get these tips that everyone is giving, I'm trying to cut my food bills down too. Doing a trial run this month to see how much I can get by on and then setting a proper budget amount.

I really enjoy cooking and have never been able to cook for one, so have always frozen leftovers or used them for lunch the next day. Freezing is so useful, especially when home late and can't be bothered cooking! Struggling at the moment tho, as don't have a freezer .. or a microwave! Very old school I think it is making me more aware of what I buy tho, as I don't like to throw food out (such a waste!)

Keep up the great tips, most of what I do is already on here, but I'll add again if I think of anything.

My super quick meal at the moment is to cook up some pasta (with carrots and zucchini if want some veg - all in same pot), and once ready, drain, add tuna, pasta sauce, a bit of grated cheese et voila! Tasty treat in less than 10 mins, and filling too.

Doinwell, I love going to the cinema too and have joined SeeFilmFirst where I occasionally get access to preview screenings of movies. I think people also post links on this site too with codes to get free tix.

Bargain_Rzl

Hi sarsief, which part of London are you in? If it's the SE then I've got loads of tips on good-value places to shop. In fact I've got a whole thread about it somewhere...

sarsief

Hi Bargain Rzl,
I'm in north london, so no good on the SE unless I feel like a bit of a trip
I sometimes go to the Borough Market but that's as a special treat!

bundance

Dual uses for appliances.
i.e. Using the remaining cooking heat from oven to dry clothes, warm up water for dishes etc.
Having a staples cupboard so there is always some grub.
Cooking batches and freezing-fave of mine.
Freezing wine.
Using left over beer for gravy.
I'm sure theres loads of micro-wave ideas, but sadly I dont own a mcrowave.
Will read rest of thread now as I can't think of any more.

How come this isn't a sticky, as one occupant households are increasing at a rapid rate?

bundance

ps Be aware of the treasures that others see as rubbish.

Bubblewrap on the windows makes a very significant difference.

bundance

MissEyre wrote: »

Thanks Pink, I will have a good read of those

I am also in this gang-my best single persons thing is having a slow cooker-it's great to be able to get home in the evening and know that my tea is waiting for me!

There are some items I could do with.
A slow cooker is one.
It could make my tea, and heat my room, during the day, as I work in this room.
It could save me fuel on my heater.
I have things I dont want and should swap them, but my depression reminds me, many an order I have made online has gone pear shape, and hassly.

thegrimreaper

hi all, im new to the os forums, i am just about to become a single man and also about to turn 30, im trying to keep as low as budget as possible for my food and i am a reasonable cook and not afraid to have a go! i mean whats the worse that can happen, i work shift work so meals in the freezer is a must for me and i look forward to chatting wiht some of you soon and hearing your ideas!!

Olliebeak

Hello and welcome to the os board/threads, grimreaper. I'm sure the other guys around here will be happy to see another male for company.

I used to work shifts and know only too well what havoc they can play with the digestive system. Seems very strange to be eating your 'lunch' at 2:00am when on nights.

Good Luck .

missychrissy

Just discovered this thread..I'm a singleton too. I've been single for 13 years now. I've given up hoping to share my life with someone and resigned myself to single status.

I found that when my ex left my social life went with him. There is no longer any spontaneous going out. I have tried going to a pub or a bar on my own but it was horrible. I took my younger children away on holiday once but we seemed to stick out like a sore thumb. Everyone else was either couples or 'complete' family units and people kept asking us where my husband was.

There are some advantages however to being single. I eat what and when I want. I can watch whatever I like on TV or DVD. I can be as money saving as I like without subjecting anyone else to my money saving ways. I can go to bed when I like. I can spend my money on whatever I like and do not have to justify anything to anybody.

I'd be interested in hearing from you all what you think are the advantages and disadvantages of being single.