by Suzy Stembridge

Created on: December 18, 2009

Current economic climate stipulates the need for the average Joe to tighten his belt, cut his expenditures and try to keep a roof over his head. Image the effort it takes when this Joe has got a wife and kids to support. While it may take time for us to experience financial turnarounds, we are constantly on the look out to find ways to cut costs. While the family's needs are a priority, there are many ways to cut corners and save money. One of the simplest solutions is to save money on family drinks.

When shopping for weekly provisions, grocery stores that sell items in bulk are a penny pincher's best friend. Beverages bought in large quantities tend to be cheaper compared to what it will cost you to get a couple of soda bottles a week. While storage can be an issue, the money saved on a monthly basis can stretch your budget noticeably. Just make sure to check the expiry dates before heading to the cash register. This approach is best used when purchasing milk or other staple drinks.

While eating out may seem almost absurd to some families, if properly planned, dining out can be a pleasurable and thrifty experience. Choose restaurants that offer bottomless beverages.  Be mindful that while these establishments may choose this competitive strategy, they usually charge a minimum of four glasses, so make sure you're really thirsty. Instead of heading to Starbucks for your fix of gourmet coffee, hit a diner for its friendly banter, vintage atmosphere and most importantly, free flow of coffee and tea.

Choose water instead of carbonated drinks or beverages with promises of various isotonic relief. Water is the most natural hydration the body needs without the added coloring and chemicals. Make a decision to steer your family to consume more water, but not the sparkly kind or the ones flown in from foreign lands. To further stretch your dollar, drink from the tap. While many opt to purchase bottled water, reading the label may enlighten you to realize the source of the water is actually from your own tap. Conforming to good ol' H2O might even make your family healthier, what with the reduce quantities of sugar and calories.

We are constantly on the look out to find better ways to make and save more money. While this effort may drive people to the brink of depression, families that support and communicate well makes the struggle bearable and might even make relationships stronger. With the right attitude and vigilant coupon clippings, we might see a brighter light at the end of the recession tunnel.

Learn more about this author, Suzy Stembridge.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.