Top Money-Saving Planning Tools

Having a plan really can save you money. My favourite money-saving planning tools:
1. Menu. Yep. Every week I plan out what we'll eat for supper and lunch if there won't be any leftovers available. How it works: I'm never standing in front of the fridge at 5:30 pm pretending to decide what to make while actually deciding what toppings to order on the pizza.
2. Grocery list. You probably know this one. Make a list and stick to it. How it works: The list frees you from buying stuff that's in your cupboard and forgetting things you need. And you just know those forgotten things are another trip to the $tore.
3. Snacks. We always carry snacks and water bottles. How it works: If you never hear "I'm hungry" or "I'm thirsty" when you're miles from home, you instantly cut out those emergency snack buys.
4. Calendar. Seriously. How it works: I use my calendar when I'm planning menus. That way, I know when we'll be away from home around a mealtime, or breezing in the door when supper should be on the table. I can plan the days that the crockpot is on duty, days when a takealong meal is needed, or even a day when we can go crazy and pick up a meal.
5. Treats. Bet you didn't see that one coming. Sure, you've heard about all work and no play. But did you know it could save your budget? Plan ahead for treats. How it works: They're rewards for good behaviour, and we all need them. Without any treats, at some point you'll crack under the pressure and blow your whole system.