There are many ways to save a little extra money each month, so of which have added benefits beyond financial ones. Have a little fun and get some great additional perks with these five out-of-the-ordinary ways to save extra money.
Forgo cable
With the popularity of Hulu, Netflix and other streaming services, cable isnt considered a necessity anymore. These streaming services even produce their own shows that you cant watch anywhere else. Plus, their fees are just a fraction of the average monthly cable billservices like Apple TV only cost a flat fee up front for the device.
Another way to get media on the cheap is to dust off that old library card. Many local libraries are part of a network from which you can rent a vast selection of DVDs, TV series boxed sets, CDs and books. Even better, its absolutely freeas long as you return everything on time.

Socialize cheaply
Instead of going to the movies on date night or heading out for drinks with your pals, look for free activities happening in your area.
Many cities offer a host of free activities, especially in the summer months. Use social media tools and the web to find listings for community activities and make your date night a little cheaper, wrote money blogger Nicole Graham on LifeHack.org. This will also push you to do something new or different, which will broaden your horizons and help you meet new people.
You can also host your own social events. Save on menu items, tax, tips and parking by hosting a potluck supper. Or organize a clothing swapit can be a fun, intimate event; and you can all get some free new outfits out of the deal.
Eat at home
Maybe your apartment is too small to host a potluck, but you can still plan your meals ahead and cook at home for yourself in order to pocket some cash.
Taking a few hours every weekend to grocery shop and meal plan for the week will definitely save you money, as dining out is the No. 1 expense for most households, said Brittney Castro of CNBC. By eating at home, you save money that would otherwise be spent on tax and tipand you usually save calories, too.
If you do eat outmaybe its a special occasion or a rewardat least try to order take-out rather than dining in or getting food delivered. You wont have to pay the double-fee of tipping the driver AND paying the delivery charge.
Get crafty
Take to Pinterest, beauty blogs and more to find cheap, easy-to-make and oftentimes eco-friendly cleaning or beauty supplies. These online resources can also give you cool ideas for repurposing items around the house or crafting in general, so finding a new hobby out of the deal is yet another advantage.
Charge yourself for bad habits
Quitting vices, such as smoking, can save you a ton of money. But the actual process of kicking the habit can save you some money as well. On LifeHack.org, Graham recommends labeling a jar with your designated bad habit and placing a certain denomination of money in the jar every time you find yourself partaking in said bad habit.
As if watching exclusive media content, hanging with friends, helping the planet or bettering yourself could get any betterwith these tips, you can save money while youre at it!