Help me stock up on life supplies
July 3, 2013 6:27 AM Subscribe
For boring, complex, tax-related reasons, I have more than $4,000 which must be spent on goods or services in the next week. What vouchers, memberships, services or products should I buy to put the money to good use and hopefully make the next year awesome? (In Sydney, Australia or online).
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So, I have a salary packaging card (it's basically a legal tax dodge available to nonprofit employees in Australia) which is about to expire because my contract has ended. It's a Visa card with certain restrictions - I cannot put the money into savings, I cannot withdraw it as cash and I cannot use it to buy prepaid Visa cards.
So, once I've loaded up on the obvious supermarket vouchers and perhaps a few iTunes cards, what else should I buy? I'm particularly interested in things which are not crazy extravagant (I am job-hunting, after all) and which will pay dividends through the year - for example, I'm thinking of buying a gym membership, stocking up on my favourite cosmetics, maybe buying some job-relevant software.
Can you help me think of more ideas? I can use the card at any merchant which accepts credit cards, in Australia, online or overseas. I know this sounds like a really broad question but I'm finding this enforced spending spree surprisingly stressful - my instinct is usually to save, not spend, so I could really use some help thinking of ways to put this money to responsible use.
So, I have a salary packaging card (it's basically a legal tax dodge available to nonprofit employees in Australia) which is about to expire because my contract has ended. It's a Visa card with certain restrictions - I cannot put the money into savings, I cannot withdraw it as cash and I cannot use it to buy prepaid Visa cards.
So, once I've loaded up on the obvious supermarket vouchers and perhaps a few iTunes cards, what else should I buy? I'm particularly interested in things which are not crazy extravagant (I am job-hunting, after all) and which will pay dividends through the year - for example, I'm thinking of buying a gym membership, stocking up on my favourite cosmetics, maybe buying some job-relevant software.
Can you help me think of more ideas? I can use the card at any merchant which accepts credit cards, in Australia, online or overseas. I know this sounds like a really broad question but I'm finding this enforced spending spree surprisingly stressful - my instinct is usually to save, not spend, so I could really use some help thinking of ways to put this money to responsible use.
I would invest in software or courses/classes/learning material related to your field.
posted by rachaelfaith at 6:30 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
posted by rachaelfaith at 6:30 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
Best answer: Could you buy a gift certificate to wherever you get your hair cut so you have haircuts for the next year?
posted by phunniemee at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by phunniemee at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
I would stock up on Amazon gift cards. You can use that throughout the year to buy your toiletries, household items, etc and put the money you would otherwise spend on those things in savings. If Amazon Prime is available in Australia, sign up for that as well so you get free shipping on all your stuff.
posted by triggerfinger at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [7 favorites]
posted by triggerfinger at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [7 favorites]
Best answer: I'd stock up on non-perishable supplies. Toilet paper, body lotion, etc. Be careful with toothpaste though, it can go bad.
How about a massage membership, in the US there's Massage Envy, you pay a fee and get a monthly massage through the year.
How about haircuts, facials and manicures?
Movie certificates.
A new pair of sunglasses, contact lenses, cool new eyewear?
Clothing.
A gorgeous handbag.
Something nice for the house.
Pet food that you can donate to a shelter.
Personal Training.
Dude, I can make that $4,000 dissapear so fast.....
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [5 favorites]
How about a massage membership, in the US there's Massage Envy, you pay a fee and get a monthly massage through the year.
How about haircuts, facials and manicures?
Movie certificates.
A new pair of sunglasses, contact lenses, cool new eyewear?
Clothing.
A gorgeous handbag.
Something nice for the house.
Pet food that you can donate to a shelter.
Personal Training.
Dude, I can make that $4,000 dissapear so fast.....
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 6:31 AM on July 3, 2013 [5 favorites]
Do you need a new mattress, by any chance? A high end mattress is something I always dream about but can't bring myself to drop the cash on.
posted by something something at 6:32 AM on July 3, 2013 [5 favorites]
posted by something something at 6:32 AM on July 3, 2013 [5 favorites]
A FABULOUS new mattress!
D'oh, something something beat me to it!
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 6:32 AM on July 3, 2013
D'oh, something something beat me to it!
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 6:32 AM on July 3, 2013
Oh gosh, bespoke footwear for my crazy-sized feet.
A pair of mohops.
A package of personal training sessions.
Those prepaid haircuts that phunniemee mentioned.
Any/all doctor visits and ensuing stuff. Ex: a new retainer, a new biteguard, new glasses.
Go take a spa day. Because spa days are uber awesome.
posted by Ms Vegetable at 6:35 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
A pair of mohops.
A package of personal training sessions.
Those prepaid haircuts that phunniemee mentioned.
Any/all doctor visits and ensuing stuff. Ex: a new retainer, a new biteguard, new glasses.
Go take a spa day. Because spa days are uber awesome.
posted by Ms Vegetable at 6:35 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
Can you use it to prepay utility bills or rent?
A new computer? New tires for the car? Paint/shelves/furniture for the house?
posted by gjc at 6:38 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
A new computer? New tires for the car? Paint/shelves/furniture for the house?
posted by gjc at 6:38 AM on July 3, 2013 [3 favorites]
Chanel bag....
posted by pearlybob at 6:46 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by pearlybob at 6:46 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Solid cooking equipment? Gift card for a restaurant you frequent?
posted by quaking fajita at 6:51 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by quaking fajita at 6:51 AM on July 3, 2013
A nice stand-alone freezer so you can prepare meals ahead of time, and take advantage of sales to stock up on meat and other perishables.
Gas cards or whatever transit cards you use.
Instead of a gym membership, how about a nice treadmill (if you have the room for it)?
Can you prepay your rent or mortgage?
posted by SuperSquirrel at 6:52 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
Gas cards or whatever transit cards you use.
Instead of a gym membership, how about a nice treadmill (if you have the room for it)?
Can you prepay your rent or mortgage?
posted by SuperSquirrel at 6:52 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
Best answer: Fuel vouchers! Department store/big box store gift cards (Target, Kmart, Myer, David Jones).
Amazing bed sheets and/or towels (Sheridan).
Have anything that needs replacing at home, like appliances or furniture?
A laptop, or camera.
Prepay your phone bills for the next year.
A really good bag for work. A pair of really good boots. A great winter coat.
Some great exercise gear.
Courses that will further your career.
Need to service your car, go to the dentist, or get some physio done?
Prepay for a personal training service.
Housekeeping!
Replace all your socks and underwear with The Good Stuff.
Some kind of home improvement so your job hunting days are nicer - a scented candle, heating unit, ergonomic chair, houseplants...
posted by shazzam! at 6:52 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
Amazing bed sheets and/or towels (Sheridan).
Have anything that needs replacing at home, like appliances or furniture?
A laptop, or camera.
Prepay your phone bills for the next year.
A really good bag for work. A pair of really good boots. A great winter coat.
Some great exercise gear.
Courses that will further your career.
Need to service your car, go to the dentist, or get some physio done?
Prepay for a personal training service.
Housekeeping!
Replace all your socks and underwear with The Good Stuff.
Some kind of home improvement so your job hunting days are nicer - a scented candle, heating unit, ergonomic chair, houseplants...
posted by shazzam! at 6:52 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
As you are job hunting, are there office supply stores or office shops to which a gift card would be useful? For resume paper, supplies, fax fees (or get a fax machine).
Do you need a new computer or modem? Can you prepay a year's worth of internet fees?
Specialized writing software, or design software?
What about biking supplies? Extra rims, new pannier bags?
Upgrade your cell phone, prepay the plan a while.
posted by tilde at 6:53 AM on July 3, 2013
Do you need a new computer or modem? Can you prepay a year's worth of internet fees?
Specialized writing software, or design software?
What about biking supplies? Extra rims, new pannier bags?
Upgrade your cell phone, prepay the plan a while.
posted by tilde at 6:53 AM on July 3, 2013
Clothes for use with your new gym membership.
If you've got shoes you love, get a couple more pairs.
A really good travel bag. I like Tom Bihn.
Good pair of sunglasses.
Good office chair.
posted by backwards guitar at 6:54 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
If you've got shoes you love, get a couple more pairs.
A really good travel bag. I like Tom Bihn.
Good pair of sunglasses.
Good office chair.
posted by backwards guitar at 6:54 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
How about a cow? We've bought a portion of a cow each year and it gives us enough beef for the whole year. It's so nice to always have something in the freezer.
posted by dawkins_7 at 6:54 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by dawkins_7 at 6:54 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
If you rent, does your landlord take credit cards? If you own a home, would your bank accept your next mortgage payment on a credit card? Either of those would eat up a chunk of change, and ease your mind during the job search for the next month.
Pay off any debt--car loans, student loans.
I would go to the local home improvement store. Replacement appliances for ones that are on their last legs, cleaning supplies, and high-quality tools are helpful long-term investments no matter where you're currently living, and they can add up.
Do you need a new interview suit or other work-related items? You mentioned job-related software--is there a training course available for it?
Could you do some early holiday/birthday shopping for family in case the job hunt lasts until the end of the year? Any other warm-weather needs that would be inexpensive to purchase now and helpful in a few months? Any travel plans for big events in the next year, where you could book your plane/train/hotel now?
Whatever money was left on the last day, I would put into Amazon gift cards because there are so many random things you can purchase with them--it would cover a lot of what-if contingencies.
(I am a similar save-at-all-costs person; these are all things that would feel like saving to me.)
posted by tchemgrrl at 6:55 AM on July 3, 2013
Pay off any debt--car loans, student loans.
I would go to the local home improvement store. Replacement appliances for ones that are on their last legs, cleaning supplies, and high-quality tools are helpful long-term investments no matter where you're currently living, and they can add up.
Do you need a new interview suit or other work-related items? You mentioned job-related software--is there a training course available for it?
Could you do some early holiday/birthday shopping for family in case the job hunt lasts until the end of the year? Any other warm-weather needs that would be inexpensive to purchase now and helpful in a few months? Any travel plans for big events in the next year, where you could book your plane/train/hotel now?
Whatever money was left on the last day, I would put into Amazon gift cards because there are so many random things you can purchase with them--it would cover a lot of what-if contingencies.
(I am a similar save-at-all-costs person; these are all things that would feel like saving to me.)
posted by tchemgrrl at 6:55 AM on July 3, 2013
Response by poster: Some great ideas so far! Just wanted to clarify that I'm generally rather frugal and more so now that I'm job-hunting, so this money isn't the kind of crazy windfall I can afford to fritter away on luxuries. It's my wages, just tax free, and if I don't spend it now it'll all go back to the taxman. So, no Chanel bags for me, thanks - I'm looking for practical ways to make this money count throughout the year even though I'm forced to spend it all right now.
posted by embrangled at 6:56 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by embrangled at 6:56 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Ok, no luxuries.
Then, stamps. Does Australia have forever stamps?
posted by Ms Vegetable at 6:59 AM on July 3, 2013
Then, stamps. Does Australia have forever stamps?
posted by Ms Vegetable at 6:59 AM on July 3, 2013
Pay all of your utilities for the year, most places accept cards.
posted by myselfasme at 7:02 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by myselfasme at 7:02 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Are there any CSA's near you? I'd imagine that in Australia it's the time of year that signups for next year are just getting started.
posted by tchemgrrl at 7:03 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by tchemgrrl at 7:03 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
If you can pay utilities, if you have them, that would be a big help to yourself. Just over pay on your next bill and you will have a credit with them to pay the next few cycles. Unless you think your job hunt may require you to move. Same will your cell phone bill.
posted by MayNicholas at 7:06 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by MayNicholas at 7:06 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Do you have anything you can upgrade or update, and then sell the older version?
How about a new kitchen appliance? If you got an energy-saving model, it will also reduce future costs.
This might be a good time to invest in a couple of nice interview outfits.
I'd get a new bike.
posted by bluedaisy at 7:12 AM on July 3, 2013
How about a new kitchen appliance? If you got an energy-saving model, it will also reduce future costs.
This might be a good time to invest in a couple of nice interview outfits.
I'd get a new bike.
posted by bluedaisy at 7:12 AM on July 3, 2013
Buy things with a single payment which you would normally pay for via monthly payments (which add up to more), e.g. car/home insurance or mobile phone (buy a new sim-free one rather than take out a contract).
posted by EndsOfInvention at 7:19 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by EndsOfInvention at 7:19 AM on July 3, 2013
Snickerdoodle has a good point - a year's membership (or more) in one of the professional membership organizations that is helpful, looks good on a resume, helps with job hunts - ACM, STC, ISSA, et cetera.
posted by tilde at 7:21 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by tilde at 7:21 AM on July 3, 2013
Best answer: Oh, I would TOTALLY pre-pay my gym membership!! Firstly, because you get discounts if you pay for a full 12 months in advance. Secondly, because I'd love not to have that $$$ coming out of my account every month.
Okay, some other ideas that will save you money throughout the year - i.e. normal day-to-day living stuff that you would have bought anyway.
I'm pretty sure the gas and electric companies will let you be in credit, here in Australia. Ring them up and ask if you can put a whack of money onto your account.
Same goes for car rego and driver's licence renewal. For example, if you've only paid your licence for the next 12 months, contact the licensing dept and tell them you want to take the 5-year option instead, and pay it up now.
Put a ton of credit on your public transport card.
Prepay your health and car insurance for the year. Get a full service/tune-up/wheel alignment/new tyres on your car, if any of these are needed.
Buy gift cards to BP/Caltex/Shell or whatever, for petrol! Also, stock up on engine oil.
Bulk-buy any (non-prescription) medications or toiletries that you use a lot of, and that will keep.
Buy gif cards/ vouchers to your hairdresser.
Stock up on underwear basics: bras (umm...if you're female), undies, socks, hosiery, etc. Either online (bonds is having a sale at the moment) or at a bricks-and-mortar place.
Buy a few crates of your favourite alcohol, and take advantage of discounts. Wine is about 20% cheaper at BWS if you buy it by the crate. (note: do not do this if you have no willpower, like me. ;)
Lastly, have a look around the racks of gift cards in Coles, Woollies etc. They've expanded the range A LOT recently. Buy some to anywhere that you regularly shop for things for yourself, but also, buy some that you can use as actual gifts, or to purchase gifts with. (e.g. got kids in your life? Grab some Target cards to use throughout the year for birthday and Christmas gifts).
Actually, they have cinema gift cards now. Buy a few to Greater Union, or wherever you usually go.
Enjoy! I'd LOVE to be in your position! :)
posted by Salamander at 7:39 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
Okay, some other ideas that will save you money throughout the year - i.e. normal day-to-day living stuff that you would have bought anyway.
I'm pretty sure the gas and electric companies will let you be in credit, here in Australia. Ring them up and ask if you can put a whack of money onto your account.
Same goes for car rego and driver's licence renewal. For example, if you've only paid your licence for the next 12 months, contact the licensing dept and tell them you want to take the 5-year option instead, and pay it up now.
Put a ton of credit on your public transport card.
Prepay your health and car insurance for the year. Get a full service/tune-up/wheel alignment/new tyres on your car, if any of these are needed.
Buy gift cards to BP/Caltex/Shell or whatever, for petrol! Also, stock up on engine oil.
Bulk-buy any (non-prescription) medications or toiletries that you use a lot of, and that will keep.
Buy gif cards/ vouchers to your hairdresser.
Stock up on underwear basics: bras (umm...if you're female), undies, socks, hosiery, etc. Either online (bonds is having a sale at the moment) or at a bricks-and-mortar place.
Buy a few crates of your favourite alcohol, and take advantage of discounts. Wine is about 20% cheaper at BWS if you buy it by the crate. (note: do not do this if you have no willpower, like me. ;)
Lastly, have a look around the racks of gift cards in Coles, Woollies etc. They've expanded the range A LOT recently. Buy some to anywhere that you regularly shop for things for yourself, but also, buy some that you can use as actual gifts, or to purchase gifts with. (e.g. got kids in your life? Grab some Target cards to use throughout the year for birthday and Christmas gifts).
Actually, they have cinema gift cards now. Buy a few to Greater Union, or wherever you usually go.
Enjoy! I'd LOVE to be in your position! :)
posted by Salamander at 7:39 AM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
One caution about "stocking up" on gift cards: many of these cards have fine print where you have to actually spend the value within a certain time frame, otherwise they start deducting ridiculous administrative fees from the balance until the card is worthless. Within a couple of months or 90 days should be ok, but I would check before saving them for longer than that.
posted by ceribus peribus at 7:44 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by ceribus peribus at 7:44 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Do you keep track of your spending? Or perhaps you have access to old credit card statements or bank statements?
I'd go through them, and see how you've spent money over the past few months. If you notice a pattern, pre-pay for what you would buy anyway. Example: supermarket gift cards like you said, if you always spend $20 a month at Restaurant XYZ, buy 6 $20 gift cards to Restaurant XYZ (to take card of the next six months), if you spend money at a certain drugstore, buy gift cards for that drugstore.
posted by insectosaurus at 7:45 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
I'd go through them, and see how you've spent money over the past few months. If you notice a pattern, pre-pay for what you would buy anyway. Example: supermarket gift cards like you said, if you always spend $20 a month at Restaurant XYZ, buy 6 $20 gift cards to Restaurant XYZ (to take card of the next six months), if you spend money at a certain drugstore, buy gift cards for that drugstore.
posted by insectosaurus at 7:45 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
If you're frugal and job hunting, I'm Nthing clothing - and go to some shop where they really provide some personal shopping service and advice. In 2000 I dropped $2,000 on clothing because I was in a job search, and I bought some clothes that were a cut above what I normally buy. 13 years later of course I don't have them any more, but they really lasted.
Also, hairstyling, cosmetics, etc., and again - paying for services and help in taking it up a notch. I have no idea how much attention you pay to all that, so if you're already doing all that and have a good wardrobe, obviously ignore me. But as someone who tries to be frugal myself, I know it's the thing that gets crunched on a budget. It's unfair and sometimes sexist that job candidates are judged so much on grooming, but it really is a key success factor in the process, whether we think it's right or not.
Also, consider pre-paying a linkedin.com premium account (about US$25 a month). I've found it very worthwhile in making contacts. Don't pre-pay for more than a year, as I think it's a waste of money unless you're an active candidate.
posted by randomkeystrike at 7:49 AM on July 3, 2013
Also, hairstyling, cosmetics, etc., and again - paying for services and help in taking it up a notch. I have no idea how much attention you pay to all that, so if you're already doing all that and have a good wardrobe, obviously ignore me. But as someone who tries to be frugal myself, I know it's the thing that gets crunched on a budget. It's unfair and sometimes sexist that job candidates are judged so much on grooming, but it really is a key success factor in the process, whether we think it's right or not.
Also, consider pre-paying a linkedin.com premium account (about US$25 a month). I've found it very worthwhile in making contacts. Don't pre-pay for more than a year, as I think it's a waste of money unless you're an active candidate.
posted by randomkeystrike at 7:49 AM on July 3, 2013
A good, well-tailored suit is very helpful if this is something you might need for work. Also, yes, good bras.
posted by jeather at 7:49 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by jeather at 7:49 AM on July 3, 2013
Do you have PayPal? Arrange to buy a "service" from a friend through PayPal. Pay with your visa. Have friend refund the money to you. Now you can just transfer the funds to your checking account and relieve the time pressure component.
posted by HappyHippo at 8:01 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by HappyHippo at 8:01 AM on July 3, 2013 [4 favorites]
Sign up for an interesting course - if nothing else, you can mention in interviews that you're learning Finnish or spending your weekends building coracles.
posted by mippy at 8:03 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by mippy at 8:03 AM on July 3, 2013
Get more relevant job training; sign up for a (online?) course or book a conference and tickets to it!
posted by DarlingBri at 8:04 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by DarlingBri at 8:04 AM on July 3, 2013
Can you buy gold or silver? I would probably do that, and then sell it.
posted by payoto at 8:16 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by payoto at 8:16 AM on July 3, 2013
Amazon Prime is fantastic, if you have that in Australia. Money well spent.
posted by fingersandtoes at 8:23 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by fingersandtoes at 8:23 AM on July 3, 2013
Best answer: Nobody has mentioned Rosetta Stone. Not sure if they're available in Australia, and I have no idea if you're interested in learning another language. But if you are, this might be a good option.
Whatever you buy, buy it on sale. If you decide to get a chest freezer, and there isn't a smashing good deal on one at any of the shops right this second, buy a gift card and wait until it's discounted. You may also be able to buy an "open box" or "scratch and dent" item. These work just as well as the pristine ones, but have obviously been handled.
Toilet paper, shampoo, toothpaste, shoes, whatever, it all goes on sale. Do not buy it until it does. This is why the portion of a cow is such a good idea, if you eat meat. The prices are better, and the quality is as well. Here in the states you can often find a high school student who belongs to 4H or FFA(future farmers of America), don't know what the equivalent might be where you are, but that might be worth checking out through a local high school or Agriculture bureau.
With the gift cards, you can wait and be savvy about purchases. Buying a year's supply of shampoo at a year's cost is no savings. But buying a year's supply for the cost of six months will leave you feeling quite righteous.
Are you set up to bring lunches to your next job? Consider carefully what kind of lunch sack you might want. Take note of the frugal lunches you eat at home and how you would package them to carry with you. Then look for a bag or system that meets your needs. Do Not buy a lunch sack and then try to come up with lunches that work with it. Don't buy a salad system if you never eat salads. Wishful thinking is expensive. (This is why bento drives so many Not Japanese people crazy - it's cute and "makes sense," but it's not a way that many people intuitively eat.) Don't buy something too big or too small.
Do you use paper towels at home? Now might be a good time to stock up on fabric options (in a color that match all your other towels, so you can wash them all together!) for napkins and kitchen cleanup. Same to swap out paper facial tissue for cloth hankies. Household cleaning supplies. Now might be a good time to make your own laundry powder (1 cup borax, 1 cup Super Washing Soda and one small bar of grated no frills soap like Fels Naptha or Castile Soap). You can also use liquid Castile Soap to make a lot of household cleaning things that are less expensive than their commercial counterparts. A gallon of Dr Bronners (or whatever brand) will last a while.
Bulk foods like rice and beans can be great cost savers, if you use those food items and have a place to keep them. But don't discount "place to keep them" out of hand. You can stick Ziploc bags anywhere, not necessarily the kitchen.
Do you have a hobby? If you like to camp, and the good winter sales on camping goods are on, consider replacing a piece of your gear at a good price before it wears out. Or supplement with a good walking pole. If you enjoy knitting or beading, again, find a good sale to ease the guilt. Prepay for a class like sewing or cooking or stained glass. And as mippy said above, mention it in your interviews. Continuing education is an option. If you could use statistics in your future job, take a class/refresher. And mention it in interviews.
As a fellow frugal person, I know it's hard to go pay full price for new clothes. Again, go shop around and see what fits in places you don't usually shop. You can even take pictures of yourself in the dressing room mirror. Then wait for the sales. Buy at the right price. This is easier with a friend, because they can see how a garment hangs that mirrors don't necessarily show you. Also, dressing room mirrors do funny things to colors. Use your savings to buy lunch for the friend.
posted by bilabial at 8:25 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Whatever you buy, buy it on sale. If you decide to get a chest freezer, and there isn't a smashing good deal on one at any of the shops right this second, buy a gift card and wait until it's discounted. You may also be able to buy an "open box" or "scratch and dent" item. These work just as well as the pristine ones, but have obviously been handled.
Toilet paper, shampoo, toothpaste, shoes, whatever, it all goes on sale. Do not buy it until it does. This is why the portion of a cow is such a good idea, if you eat meat. The prices are better, and the quality is as well. Here in the states you can often find a high school student who belongs to 4H or FFA(future farmers of America), don't know what the equivalent might be where you are, but that might be worth checking out through a local high school or Agriculture bureau.
With the gift cards, you can wait and be savvy about purchases. Buying a year's supply of shampoo at a year's cost is no savings. But buying a year's supply for the cost of six months will leave you feeling quite righteous.
Are you set up to bring lunches to your next job? Consider carefully what kind of lunch sack you might want. Take note of the frugal lunches you eat at home and how you would package them to carry with you. Then look for a bag or system that meets your needs. Do Not buy a lunch sack and then try to come up with lunches that work with it. Don't buy a salad system if you never eat salads. Wishful thinking is expensive. (This is why bento drives so many Not Japanese people crazy - it's cute and "makes sense," but it's not a way that many people intuitively eat.) Don't buy something too big or too small.
Do you use paper towels at home? Now might be a good time to stock up on fabric options (in a color that match all your other towels, so you can wash them all together!) for napkins and kitchen cleanup. Same to swap out paper facial tissue for cloth hankies. Household cleaning supplies. Now might be a good time to make your own laundry powder (1 cup borax, 1 cup Super Washing Soda and one small bar of grated no frills soap like Fels Naptha or Castile Soap). You can also use liquid Castile Soap to make a lot of household cleaning things that are less expensive than their commercial counterparts. A gallon of Dr Bronners (or whatever brand) will last a while.
Bulk foods like rice and beans can be great cost savers, if you use those food items and have a place to keep them. But don't discount "place to keep them" out of hand. You can stick Ziploc bags anywhere, not necessarily the kitchen.
Do you have a hobby? If you like to camp, and the good winter sales on camping goods are on, consider replacing a piece of your gear at a good price before it wears out. Or supplement with a good walking pole. If you enjoy knitting or beading, again, find a good sale to ease the guilt. Prepay for a class like sewing or cooking or stained glass. And as mippy said above, mention it in your interviews. Continuing education is an option. If you could use statistics in your future job, take a class/refresher. And mention it in interviews.
As a fellow frugal person, I know it's hard to go pay full price for new clothes. Again, go shop around and see what fits in places you don't usually shop. You can even take pictures of yourself in the dressing room mirror. Then wait for the sales. Buy at the right price. This is easier with a friend, because they can see how a garment hangs that mirrors don't necessarily show you. Also, dressing room mirrors do funny things to colors. Use your savings to buy lunch for the friend.
posted by bilabial at 8:25 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Can you buy gold or silver? I would probably do that, and then sell it.
I'm sure you're not considering this, but you will be effed ten ways from sunday with the buying and selling rates if you do this.
You can put the following bills into surplus that I know of: Mobile phone, Landline, Electricity, and Gas. I am unsure about ISPs and water bills.
If you will be job hunting, perhaps some cabcharges might be helpful, not too many, but you know.
You can pre-buy delivered groceries. We get our milk and eggs through Aussie Farmers Direct, but there are tonnes and tonnes, and they will drop off just about anything. We like milk and eggs because consumption is fairly stable in our house, and fruit boxes tend to give you a lot of damned potatoes every week.
An officeworks voucher - depending on expirations etc might be useful - Printer ink is prohibitively expensive and they sell a range of tech products, hard drives, etc as well.
posted by smoke at 8:40 AM on July 3, 2013
I'm sure you're not considering this, but you will be effed ten ways from sunday with the buying and selling rates if you do this.
You can put the following bills into surplus that I know of: Mobile phone, Landline, Electricity, and Gas. I am unsure about ISPs and water bills.
If you will be job hunting, perhaps some cabcharges might be helpful, not too many, but you know.
You can pre-buy delivered groceries. We get our milk and eggs through Aussie Farmers Direct, but there are tonnes and tonnes, and they will drop off just about anything. We like milk and eggs because consumption is fairly stable in our house, and fruit boxes tend to give you a lot of damned potatoes every week.
An officeworks voucher - depending on expirations etc might be useful - Printer ink is prohibitively expensive and they sell a range of tech products, hard drives, etc as well.
posted by smoke at 8:40 AM on July 3, 2013
Best answer: I'm pretty sure all the people suggesting schemes where the OP ends up with cash at the end (e.g. paying a "friend" for a "service") are just describing tax fraud, so don't do that, OP.
Can you pay your rent in advance?
posted by telegraph at 8:45 AM on July 3, 2013
Can you pay your rent in advance?
posted by telegraph at 8:45 AM on July 3, 2013
Buy four Macbook Airs. Sell them on eBay at $50 loss. Put the money in your savings account. Good luck with the job hunt!
posted by oceanjesse at 9:02 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by oceanjesse at 9:02 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Fyi to those who can't resist suggesting it again, amazon does not have an Australian site.
posted by jacalata at 9:36 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by jacalata at 9:36 AM on July 3, 2013
It sounds to me like you just need gift cards for the grocery store, the drugstore, the 'sells everything' store (like Walmart, or what have you), your favorite clothing and shoes stores, haircut place, and finally, some stuff for Christmas gifts and birthdays. Maybe the hardware store too. Personally, I would split the bulk between the grocery store and the 'sells everything' store.
posted by kitcat at 9:44 AM on July 3, 2013
posted by kitcat at 9:44 AM on July 3, 2013
Get your home heating and/or air conditioning tuned up.
Some appliances and small engines (Hoover, sewing machine, lawn mower, etc) can be tuned up or given a standard maintenance package, too.
posted by Orinda at 10:32 AM on July 3, 2013
Some appliances and small engines (Hoover, sewing machine, lawn mower, etc) can be tuned up or given a standard maintenance package, too.
posted by Orinda at 10:32 AM on July 3, 2013
Go to a wholesaler, big box store and stock up on basics that won't go off. Toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies etc. If you have a freezer stock up on meat or frozen veg, good basic stuff you know you'll use.
Pay your utilities, or any bills you can in advance, so you don't have to worry so much about income while job hunting.
Buy a few Petrol cards at the local servo, I haven't bought one in a while but Caltex used to do star cards for this.
Prepaid phone cards, if you tend to ring interstate or overseas, or switch to a prepaid mobile phone. Not sure what's available now a days in Australia but a visit to an Allphones or something similar could help here. Can you prepay your cell phone bill for a few months, so you don't have to worry when job hunting about being contacted.
Buy a good interview outfit, that makes you feel pulled together and confident.
Buy items you can resell for minimum loss and pocket the money.
I'd buy Woolworths or Coles gift cards and then work them into my budget for weekly food shopping. If you buy the right sort they work at various liquor, hardware and general goods stores too like Big W. You can also buy cards that work in any shop in a mall, Westfield malls are great for these, this can come in handy as some of the malls have a huge range of shops so you can then save them for when you need something and not feel like you are frittering away your money. With gift cards just watch if they have expiry dates, most now have websites you can keep an eye on balances and dates.
posted by wwax at 10:50 AM on July 3, 2013
Pay your utilities, or any bills you can in advance, so you don't have to worry so much about income while job hunting.
Buy a few Petrol cards at the local servo, I haven't bought one in a while but Caltex used to do star cards for this.
Prepaid phone cards, if you tend to ring interstate or overseas, or switch to a prepaid mobile phone. Not sure what's available now a days in Australia but a visit to an Allphones or something similar could help here. Can you prepay your cell phone bill for a few months, so you don't have to worry when job hunting about being contacted.
Buy a good interview outfit, that makes you feel pulled together and confident.
Buy items you can resell for minimum loss and pocket the money.
I'd buy Woolworths or Coles gift cards and then work them into my budget for weekly food shopping. If you buy the right sort they work at various liquor, hardware and general goods stores too like Big W. You can also buy cards that work in any shop in a mall, Westfield malls are great for these, this can come in handy as some of the malls have a huge range of shops so you can then save them for when you need something and not feel like you are frittering away your money. With gift cards just watch if they have expiry dates, most now have websites you can keep an eye on balances and dates.
posted by wwax at 10:50 AM on July 3, 2013
Best answer: One word of warning in this regard - most giftcards are not made as well as your typical bank card, and die from scratches a lot more easily. You can get the balance transferred when this happens, but it's a pain - you need the store manager during business hours to do it (yes, I've done this for a woolies card.) So get several lower value ones, not one big one.
You've also got gift cards for hardware (bunnings), cheap clothing (Target), your normal clothes stores (for me that might be Jeanswest, for example)... The woolies or coles giftcards are probably smart - they have a 1-year expiry on them and my grocery bill is probably a good third of your $4k in a year - and you can spend them at quite a lot of stores.
A quick glance through your comment history:
- it might be worth stopping by the pet store and stocking up on pet-related items.
- also, job-useful things. Could do with a new monitor? A more comfortable chair? A more ergonomic mouse and/or keyboard? A legal software license that your job was previously providing?
- bike servicing isn't a bad idea
- get gifts in advance for 3 year old relatives. And anyone else.
Sydney-specific:
- Get a year's worth of mybus/mymulti tickets, unless you never use it. They aren't going to scrap the system in a hurry.
- NSW has 5-year license renewals.
- Think about summer. Need new swim gear or biking gear? What shops sell what you want?
- You can always stock up on australia post stamps/express envelopes/etc. if you send much mail.
Some cautions:
- sometimes the prepaid cards don't quite act how you'd expect. Occasionally they don't work at all with a store's systems. In other situations, if a transaction tries to authorize slightly more than the balance (particularly for restaurants and other situations where tips are common) - even if this is never charged, it won't let you use the whole balance. Don't plan on using the last of the money in one of those places.
Be prepared for what you'll do if the system does refuse to accept the card - you don't want to get pulled up by store staff for attempting credit card fraud (even if you're not - it takes several hours to straighten out. Mum had a fun experience once when Dad accidentally froze her card after losing his wallet overseas.) There are a few retailers who have refused to accept prepaid visa cards in the past.
- Similarly, know the remaining balance. Do the math.
posted by Ashlyth at 11:15 AM on July 3, 2013
You've also got gift cards for hardware (bunnings), cheap clothing (Target), your normal clothes stores (for me that might be Jeanswest, for example)... The woolies or coles giftcards are probably smart - they have a 1-year expiry on them and my grocery bill is probably a good third of your $4k in a year - and you can spend them at quite a lot of stores.
A quick glance through your comment history:
- it might be worth stopping by the pet store and stocking up on pet-related items.
- also, job-useful things. Could do with a new monitor? A more comfortable chair? A more ergonomic mouse and/or keyboard? A legal software license that your job was previously providing?
- bike servicing isn't a bad idea
- get gifts in advance for 3 year old relatives. And anyone else.
Sydney-specific:
- Get a year's worth of mybus/mymulti tickets, unless you never use it. They aren't going to scrap the system in a hurry.
- NSW has 5-year license renewals.
- Think about summer. Need new swim gear or biking gear? What shops sell what you want?
- You can always stock up on australia post stamps/express envelopes/etc. if you send much mail.
Some cautions:
- sometimes the prepaid cards don't quite act how you'd expect. Occasionally they don't work at all with a store's systems. In other situations, if a transaction tries to authorize slightly more than the balance (particularly for restaurants and other situations where tips are common) - even if this is never charged, it won't let you use the whole balance. Don't plan on using the last of the money in one of those places.
Be prepared for what you'll do if the system does refuse to accept the card - you don't want to get pulled up by store staff for attempting credit card fraud (even if you're not - it takes several hours to straighten out. Mum had a fun experience once when Dad accidentally froze her card after losing his wallet overseas.) There are a few retailers who have refused to accept prepaid visa cards in the past.
- Similarly, know the remaining balance. Do the math.
posted by Ashlyth at 11:15 AM on July 3, 2013
No guess if this happens where you are, but every place I've lived in the UK and the USA, the utility companies were fine with me having a positive balance. If I sent 'em, say $500 and my electricity was $50/mo., my balance just went to $450, $400, etc.
posted by ambient2 at 11:42 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by ambient2 at 11:42 AM on July 3, 2013 [1 favorite]
Best answer: Museum membership, gift voucher for the opera (valid 12 months), magazine/paper subscription.
posted by travelwithcats at 1:16 PM on July 3, 2013
posted by travelwithcats at 1:16 PM on July 3, 2013
If I had that, I would:
1. Get my car detailed, inside and out, and take care of any maintenance I'd been avoiding.
2. Have my laptop fully updated, with new RAM and a new battery, and/or buy a new one.
3. Upgrade my furniture, including nicer bookshelves, a sideboard, maybe a quality bed frame...
4. Read reviews and upgrade older or worn appliances or electronics, like the toaster, lamps, TV, etc.
5. Go to the doctor to finally get that thing looked into, that mole removed, that test done, etc.
Things I've done in previous times of good fortune:
1. Put together a good EDC (everyday carry) for my pockets and/or a "go bag" for emergencies.
2. Made strategic wardrobe updates, buying long-wearing pieces like shoes, jackets, etc.
3. Signed up for online services and website access that would make my life more convenient.
4. Paid off any loans, credit cards, outstanding bills, etc.
5. Bought tickets in advance for any upcoming vacations.
6. Upgraded the tools of my hobbies, including graphics software, musical instruments, etc.
posted by limeonaire at 8:22 PM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
1. Get my car detailed, inside and out, and take care of any maintenance I'd been avoiding.
2. Have my laptop fully updated, with new RAM and a new battery, and/or buy a new one.
3. Upgrade my furniture, including nicer bookshelves, a sideboard, maybe a quality bed frame...
4. Read reviews and upgrade older or worn appliances or electronics, like the toaster, lamps, TV, etc.
5. Go to the doctor to finally get that thing looked into, that mole removed, that test done, etc.
Things I've done in previous times of good fortune:
1. Put together a good EDC (everyday carry) for my pockets and/or a "go bag" for emergencies.
2. Made strategic wardrobe updates, buying long-wearing pieces like shoes, jackets, etc.
3. Signed up for online services and website access that would make my life more convenient.
4. Paid off any loans, credit cards, outstanding bills, etc.
5. Bought tickets in advance for any upcoming vacations.
6. Upgraded the tools of my hobbies, including graphics software, musical instruments, etc.
posted by limeonaire at 8:22 PM on July 3, 2013 [2 favorites]
ambient2's idea is great. There's been a few "rent in advance" but that could be more complicated. What if you wanted to move?
Assuming that you're going to stay in the same metro area (or else move somewhere else where your current utilities company also is a provider), dumping into that means you don't have to worry about utilities for up to... years?
See what kind of long-term-deal-type-thingy your cell phone company might offer you. Maybe a new cell, pre-paid, until the contract expires in 3 years and you get another free cell?
You're not making money on the money, but it's only parts of 4k. Unlike landlords, utility companies (at least around here) are kinda forced to have to give you back the "overpayment/positive-balance" if you ask for it, if you have a legitimate reason (like moving out of their zone of services).
posted by porpoise at 9:06 PM on July 3, 2013
Assuming that you're going to stay in the same metro area (or else move somewhere else where your current utilities company also is a provider), dumping into that means you don't have to worry about utilities for up to... years?
See what kind of long-term-deal-type-thingy your cell phone company might offer you. Maybe a new cell, pre-paid, until the contract expires in 3 years and you get another free cell?
You're not making money on the money, but it's only parts of 4k. Unlike landlords, utility companies (at least around here) are kinda forced to have to give you back the "overpayment/positive-balance" if you ask for it, if you have a legitimate reason (like moving out of their zone of services).
posted by porpoise at 9:06 PM on July 3, 2013
You may be able to pay a food delivery service in advance. We have used http://www.dietlicious.com.au/ in Sydney. You will get delieved once a week a box of 7 days worth of 3 meals and 2 snacks a day. All healthy and tasty. Though a little costly, it may suit your purposes to spread spending.
There would definelty be other food delivery services out there, such as fruit and veg boxes that may suit your needs more.
Buying gift cards for Coles/Wollies could be a way to delay the spending over time.
posted by Burgatron at 11:52 PM on July 3, 2013
There would definelty be other food delivery services out there, such as fruit and veg boxes that may suit your needs more.
Buying gift cards for Coles/Wollies could be a way to delay the spending over time.
posted by Burgatron at 11:52 PM on July 3, 2013
Response by poster: Thanks everyone for your very helpful answers, and for the timely reminders that I am extremely fortunate to be in this position. Telegraph is right - doing anything dodgy with PayPal would be tax fraud, and the card is blocked from connecting to PayPal anyway. They've basically locked down every conceivable scheme for turning the tax-free allowance into cash. But I have prepaid my Internet and phone bills, bought a brighter bike light and some fenders, and I plan to ask my local greengrocer if he'll let me set up an account. Once I'm done spending on niche stuff I think I'll just buy a bunch of Coles Myer gift cards, because phwoar, those things are accepted all over the place (including Officeworks for job-hunting supplies and Liquorland should I require a calming drink). Thanks for for all the advice!
posted by embrangled at 3:04 AM on July 4, 2013
posted by embrangled at 3:04 AM on July 4, 2013
Just check the expiry date on the gift cards! There are Westfield gift cards too. :)
posted by inkypinky at 7:59 AM on July 4, 2013
posted by inkypinky at 7:59 AM on July 4, 2013
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by xingcat at 6:30 AM on July 3, 2013 [5 favorites]