Australians could be leaving hundreds of dollars on the table each year by overlooking discounts, rewards and bonus perks from services they're already paying for. From cheaper groceries and petrol to discounted movie tickets, free food and flight rewards, Canstar Data Insights Director Sally Tindall has revealed a simple seven-day savings plan designed to help households stretch their budgets further.
"People are looking for ways to save money without completely changing their lifestyle," Tindall said. Here's how to make every day of the week work a little harder for your wallet.
Monday: Supercharge your grocery shop
The week starts at the supermarket. While Coles and Woolworths shoppers typically earn one point per dollar spent, with 2,000 points worth a $10 discount, Tindall said paid membership programs can deliver big savings. Signing up to Coles Plus or Everyday Extra costs about $7 a month and includes one 10 per cent discount shop plus bonus points. This could lead to a saving of around $20 for a $250 shop. She also recommended purchasing discounted gift cards through providers such as HCF, Macquarie, and NRMA before doing a grocery shop, with savings of up to 4 per cent available.
Tuesday: Cut the cost of filling up
Fuel savings are next up on the agenda. Coles and Woolworths both offer four cents off per litre when customers spend at least $30 in store. Motoring memberships can provide additional discounts at selected service stations. The 7-Eleven price lock feature also offers motorists a chance to save money as fuel subsidies are gradually wound back.
Wednesday: Rewards for your coffee run
Loyalty programs can pay off during the work week. Starbucks customers can earn a free drink after collecting enough reward stars, while Guzman y Gomez offers a $10 reward simply for signing up. On the way home, Tindall recommended checking the Too Good To Go app, which allows customers to purchase unsold food at discounted prices. Baker's Delight, for example, offers a bag of goods valued at around $30 for $9.99.
Thursday: Make late-night shopping count
Retail rewards programs can offer savings for shoppers heading out on Thursday evenings. Myer, David Jones and Priceline all offer loyalty schemes, while Spotlight's VIP Club includes sign-up bonuses, birthday rewards and regular discounts. However, Tindall warned shoppers not to let discounts tempt them into unnecessary purchases. "Just don't spend for the sake of a discount. It's marketing," she said.
Friday: Save on date night
Movie lovers can trim the cost of a Friday night out through membership programs and rewards schemes. Discounted cinema tickets are available through providers including Telstra, Uber One, AHM, NAB and Macquarie. AHM members, for example, can access two-for-one tickets at Hoyts cinemas.
Saturday: Spend nothing at all
Tindall's challenge for Saturday is not to spend a cent at all. Instead, she suggests browsing community marketplaces and giveaway groups. Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and FreeCycle regularly feature furniture, household goods and other items available for free. "It's amazing what you can find for absolutely nothing," she said.
Sunday: Plan ahead and save later
The final day of the week is about setting up future savings. Tindall recommended using Qantas Frequent Flyer points for Classic Rewards flights rather than letting them sit unused. She also suggested comparing hotel prices directly through accommodation websites rather than relying solely on booking platforms, and making the most of travel insurance benefits attached to rewards credit cards.
