It’s no secret; being a single mom is a financial challenge, but it doesn’t mean you have to go without. As a self-employed single mom, I know a thing or two, or ten, about saving money without compromising my lifestyle. Being a single mom doesn’t mean you have to struggle, it just means you have to be smart. Shop smart, spend smart and get smart rewards. Here are 10 ways to save money without compromise:

10 Ways to Save Money Without Compromising Your Fab

#1 Cut the Cable

 

I found it so funny the other day when I told my sister that I had not had cable for over two years. I still have high-speed internet and I still watch plenty (if not too much) T.V., still, I stopped paying the $157 monthly price tag. Instead, I opted to pay for just high-speed wifi at $50/month, Hulu at $8/month and Netflix at $9/month. I am saving a whopping $90/month!

 

#2 Get a Gas Card

 

I know this sounds so 1990s, but it’s true. You will save more on fuel if you have a fuel rewards card. It’s one of these things you have to get, no matter how much you don’t want to. It’s also one of those things you don’t find bargains on. So instead of just sucking it up, pump with intention. Here are some of the best gas cards.

 

#3 Get Multiple Grocery Cards (Ideally that link to your gas station)

 

I love doing this. I have to buy food no matter what. There’s no getting around it. Why not earn points toward fuel while you’re doing it?

 

#4 Use Cards with Cash Back Rewards

 

I can’t stress this enough. The money that needs to be spent will be spent. Why not use a card that gives you cash back as a reward when you spend? Every little bit adds up. It could even be your holiday shopping money! I like the U.S. Bank Cash 365^TM American Express® Card. They offer value like 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases, no annual fee, rewards that never expire and all the benefits of being a valued American Express customer. Another really great card (for you business owners out there) is the AMEX Delta SkyMiles Business Platinum card. I basically put everything on this because I get a mile for every dollar spent. They often have really awesome sign-on bonuses too. Here are some of the best credit cards with rewards.

 

#5 Fill Out Receipt Surveys

 

You know when you get a customer survey receipt and it gives you a reward? Fill those out! They add up. They could turn into stocking stuffers or birthday gifts throughout the year.

 

#6 Install ShopKick on Your Phone (app)

 

I was introduced to this app a few months back and it turns out it’s pretty fun! When I am home, I have to shop for food and home things right? With ShopKick you get to scan items in the store and earn points just for scanning that turn into gift cards. Furthermore, if you link your cards to the app, you collect points for spending. $5 here and $10 there adds up!

 

#7 Ladies’ Days

 

It’s not just a cheap ploy to get your single butt into the club. It’s great for oil changes, car washes and lots of other local services we all need. Keep track of the ladies’ days in your area and get on that! Cha-ching!

 

#8 BOGO Coupons

 

I know this may sound like the most obvious one, but you would be surprised how many people DON’T jump on this. There are several major grocery retailers who offer buy one get one sales. When you use manufacturer coupons on these sales you can really score! If you live in an apartment and use a mail room, you are guaranteed to find a lot of leftover coupon inserts. Grab those!

 

#9 Family Days

 

These are great for saving and getting out of the house! Usually, kids eat free on family nights, which means you get out and save. Win, win!

 

#10 Shop Around for Better Prices

 

Shop around for better prices on things you hate paying for like car insurance. If you’re over the pond, AA Ireland is offering some pretty competitive pricing on their plans. Here in the U.S., I’ve saved money with Geico by bundling my home, life and auto insurance together. You can also shop around for new Wi-Fi, gas, pest control, lawn care and so on. Deals change all the time, it pays to be in the know.