Spending

Spend less with our money saving tips, plus the latest advice to protect yourself from scams.

How to cut the cost of train fares

Update: Fri, 20/08/2010 - 11:16

Train fares look set to rise by up to 8% next year if the government orders spending cuts in the Department for Transport. Cathy Adams shows you how to keep costs down. Read more

Top 10 voucher codes - including 2 for 1 on theatre tickets

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 17/08/2010 - 12:35

This week's best deals on eating out, high street fashion online and entertaining days out - including 2 for 1 on tickets to see the west end hit We will rock you. Read more

Avoid the second-hand car sales con

By Nick Gibbs Update: Tue, 17/08/2010 - 11:02

Dealing with used-car salesmen can be tough for the uninitiated. Nick Gibbs rounds up the best ways to spot the conmen and to make sure you get a good deal. Read more

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Five ways to cut the cost of last-minute breaks

Update: Tue, 17/08/2010 - 17:05

There's a hint of autumn in the air, but there's still time to make the most of the weather and take a last minute mini-break, without breaking the bank. Read more

10 holiday sites you can't afford to ignore

By Emma Lunn Update: Fri, 13/08/2010 - 16:12

If you’re thinking of heading off for some end-of-summer sun, or even staying at home to avoid the threat of airport strikes, there are numerous money-saving websites you should check out first. Here are 10 of the best. Read more

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Top 10 voucher codes - including money off at New Look

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 12:54

This week's top voucher codes for eating out, shopping and home entertainment. Find deals to help you save money today. Read more

Top 10 voucher codes - including 10% off hotel bookings with hotels.com

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 03/08/2010 - 10:57

In this week's top 10 voucher codes we've rounded up the best deals for helping you to enjoy your holiday without breaking the bank. Discounts on flights and accommodation, meals out and wardrobe essentials included. Read more

Banks slammed for extortionate foreign transaction fees

Update: Tue, 03/08/2010 - 09:21

Banks are hitting holidaymakers with an ‘extortionate’ charge of almost 5% for withdrawing money abroad by using a confusing double-fee policy on debit cards. Rebecca Rutt reports. Read more

How to keep eyecare costs down

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 11:24

Eyesight is priceless, but it's amazing how many of us neglect it because of the cost. Read Nathalie Bonney's guide to the cheaper ways you can buy specs or contact lenses and find out whether they're worth it. Read more

Top 10 voucher codes - up to 70% off in Wallis sale plus free delivery

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 20/07/2010 - 13:01

As summer gets into full swing, Moneywise brings you the top 10 voucher codes for this week. Save on clothes, dining out and entertainment. Read more

Review your mobile phone insurance

Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 11:36

There are 228 mobile phones reported stolen every hour in the UK, according to the Home Office. Added to that are the countless numbers of unreported thefts and phones that are dropped, lost or damaged. But is mobile phone insurance the answer? Read more

Six ways to cut the cost of camping

Update: Fri, 09/07/2010 - 11:37

Pitching your tent in the great outdoors can be a fun way to have a holiday - and a cheap one too, if you follow these tips. Read more

Top 10 voucher codes - includes 50% off and free delivery at Oasis

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 06/07/2010 - 11:26

This week's best discounts and deals on the high street and online. Whether it's shopping, eating out or DIY, we help you cut the cost. Read more

Ryanair to offer £4 stand-only fares

Update: Thu, 01/07/2010 - 15:21

Budget airline Ryanair plans to offer passengers flights from £4 with standing-room only, if it can get approval from the Civil Aviation Authority. Read more

Cut the cost of money transfers

By Esther Armstrong Update: Mon, 28/06/2010 - 17:18

Transferring money abroad can often have expensive fees and charges attached to it. So, follow our helpful tips to avoid paying over the odds. Read more

Stop your travel insurance claim getting rejected

By Esther Shaw Update: Mon, 28/06/2010 - 19:08

Making a claim on your travel insurance can be a stressful end to a relaxing break - especially if the claim doesn't come through. Follow these tips to make sure your policy pays out. Read more

10 hot summer savings

By Esther Armstrong Update: Thu, 24/06/2010 - 15:43

Whether you're busy preparing for a festival, packing for your summer holiday, or simply looking for a discount on some everyday essentials, we've got a voucher to please everyone... Read more

Top 10 voucher codes

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 15/06/2010 - 14:29

This week's best voucher codes for eating out, staying in and shopping online. Read more

Make easy money online

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 11/06/2010 - 15:22

It sounds too good to be true but you really can earn money from shopping online, if you know where to find the best deals. Nathalie Bonney shows you how. Read more

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Top 10 voucher codes

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 08/06/2010 - 12:08

This week's best voucher codes for eating out, staying in and shopping online. Read more

How to spot auction fraud online

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 07/06/2010 - 20:06

While some great steals can be found on auction websites, beware 'phantom' bidders whose main aim is to make you raise your bid. Sarah Coles investigates. Read more

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10 credit card perks put to the test

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Fri, 04/06/2010 - 15:13

Credit cards now offer all sorts of rewards to win our custom, but are they just cheap gimmicks? Johanna Gornitzki investigates. Read more

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8 worst holiday rip-offs

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 03/06/2010 - 20:18

It's not only ash clouds and strikes that cast gloom over holiday plans. Nathalie Bonney shows how avoiding common holiday rip-offs can make all the difference to your summer break. Read more

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The pros and cons of currency cards

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Mon, 09/08/2010 - 10:44

It costs to use your plastic abroad and taking cash is risky. Pre-paid currency cards offer an alternative way to pay. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the advantages and disadvantages of this payment method. Read more

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Crafty ways to cut the cost of flights

Update: Thu, 04/03/2010 - 12:09

From knowing what time of day to book, to the secret to working out whether prices will be reduced down the line, Moneywise explains how you can avoid paying over the odds for airplane tickets. Read more

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20 ways to save £20

Update: Wed, 07/07/2010 - 17:04

Every little bit helps – so Moneywise has come up with 20 top ways you can make counting the pennies add up to a considerable saving. Read more

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Cut the cost of international phone calls

Update: Fri, 29/01/2010 - 14:07

International calls can cost a bomb. But whether you're calling home from holiday or want to keep in touch with friends and family living overseas, there are ways to cut the cost. Read more

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How phone apps can save you money

Update: Tue, 09/02/2010 - 17:14

To celebrate the launch of the Moneywise iPhone app, Rebecca Atkinson looks at five ways downloading apps onto your smart phone can save you money. Read more

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Top 10 complaints - and how to resolve them

By Hannah Ricci Update: Wed, 20/01/2010 - 17:08

Complaints against financial providers have risen steadily during the recession. Hannah Ricci looks at our top 10 complaints and shows how best to go about getting a resolution. Read more

Are pre-paid cards the way forward?

Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 16:33

Pre-paid cards are more than just a good way to budget - they also offer a way to escape some booking and oversea fees. But is this payment method the way forward - and what deals are on offer? Read more

Where to find the cheapest music on the web

Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 13:51

Whether you're after a cut-price CD, or want to find out the cheapest places to download or stream music online legally, read Moneywise's guide to cutting the cost of music. Read more

The 10 most common scams - and how to avoid them

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 17/11/2009 - 09:46

As fraudsters get more sophisticated and the recession renders us more vulnerable to their wiles, we need to be on our guard. Nathalie Bonney reveals the 10 most common scams and how to avoid them. Read more

Are you advertising your home to burglars?

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 10:36

With social networking sites becoming increasingly popular Sarah Coles investigates whether we are leaving ourselves vulnerable to burglary and fraud. Read more

Cut the cost of eyecare

By Hannah Ricci Update: Fri, 06/11/2009 - 15:28

You don’t have to pay through the nose for quality eye care - follow Moneywise’s top tips to cut the cost. Read more

Protect your computer from fraudsters

Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 10:33

Garreth Griffith, head of risk management at PayPal, answers your questions on how you can stay safe from fraud when online. Read more

How to date on a budget

By Hannah Ricci Update: Fri, 12/02/2010 - 18:27

Splashing the cash to impress won't buy you love, so make your next date affordable as well as enjoyable, says Hannah Ricci. Read more

Don't be fooled by the online fakes

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 10:33

Have you ever been a victim of purchasing fake goods online from websites that pass them off as the genuine article? Sarah Coles investigates. Read more

How to beat online fraud

Update: Mon, 14/06/2010 - 12:33

The speed and convenience of managing money matters online are hugely welcome, but don't dismiss the dangers of online fraud. Here are five ways to protect yourself. Read more

Cheap train tickets - how to find them

Update: Mon, 05/07/2010 - 11:14

Travelling by train can cost a small fortune - meaning it's often cheaper to drive. But by following Moneywise's top tips you could easily cut the cost. Read more

Make money at car boot sales

Update: Mon, 21/12/2009 - 14:39

Bargain hunters are flocking to car boot sales across the country - Hannah Ricci offers her top tips to buyers and sellers. Read more

Wise up to supermarket tricks

Update: Wed, 29/07/2009 - 14:05

Supermarkets are skilled in using cunning tricks to get you to spend more. Rebecca Atkinson guides you round the aisles explaining how you can beat them at their own game. Read more

Your rights when buying second-hand goods

By Laura Howard Update: Mon, 21/12/2009 - 14:28

As the pressure is on to make ends meet, many of us are discovering the advantages  of buying used goods.  Laura Howard shows how you can avoid some of the pitfalls facing the thrifty shopper. Read more

Beat the postcode lottery

Update: Thu, 18/02/2010 - 16:36

Postcodes, which turn 50 this year, are increasingly affecting insurance premiums and pension income. So, what does your postcode say about you and what can you do to beat the lottery? Read more

10 ways to protect your ID

By Harriet Meyer Update: Mon, 14/06/2010 - 12:36

Many people are unaware of ID theft until it's too late, but there are lots of simple things you can do to stop the thieves. Here are 10 top tips to help you beat the fraudsters. Read more

Beware ‘we will buy your debt’ scam

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 27/07/2009 - 17:50

Companies that offer to buy your debts in return for a smaller monthly repayment are acting illegally, says Sarah Coles. And, worryingly, such plans could leave your worse off. Read more

Cut the cost of your wedding

By Sam Barrett Update: Mon, 06/07/2009 - 16:12

Wedding are about celebrating love and the start of marriage. But increasingly, your big day boils down to one thing - money.  Sam Barrett reveals how to keep costs down without any of your guests noticing. Read more

Cash in on falling prices

By Hannah Ricci Update: Thu, 09/07/2009 - 10:46

Because we all need to watch our pennies these days, Hannah Ricci guides us through what’s best to avoid in the shops and what’s worth snapping up. Read more

The pros and cons of currency cards

Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 16:38

Avoid this investment scam

Update: Thu, 09/07/2009 - 16:03

Consumer champion Tony Hetherington isn't convinced by a stockpicking program that promises to help you take control of your investments. Read more

Does the car scrappage scheme offer a good deal?

Update: Tue, 11/08/2009 - 11:48

The government is encouraging drivers of old cars to trade these in for a new model and receive a £2,000 discount. But does this offer actually represent a good deal for consumers? Read more

Buying second-hand can be a false economy

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 21/12/2009 - 14:29

Buying used items is good for the environment and your wallet. But, when it comes to white goods, it can be a false economy, warns Sarah Coles. Read more

10 rip-off products you should ditch

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 06/08/2010 - 17:02

Are you burning money by paying for products or services you don’t need? Nathalie Bonney names and shames the deals you should ditch today. Read more

Save money by dropping a brand

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 13:53

How much can you save if you opt for the cheaper brands in your weekly shop?  Nathalie Bonney challenges her parents to ‘drop a brand’. Read more

Don't fall victim to takeover fraud

Update: Thu, 27/08/2009 - 17:45

The difficulty in obtaining credit has seen fraudsters increasingly resorting to taking over victims' bank accounts. Find out how to stay safe. Read more

Can you make money by doing nothing?

Update: Thu, 11/06/2009 - 15:51

Consumer champion Tony Hetherington reports on an investment firm that promises to pay you for doing nothing. Surely that's an offer too good to be true? Read more

Cut the cost of your holiday

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 13/01/2010 - 17:31

Tough times do not have to mean abandoning  your holiday plans. As Nathalie Bonney shows, by  finding the best deals and avoiding common  pitfalls, you can enjoy your break for less. Read more

Get a good deal on a second-hand car

By Laura Howard Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 17:32

As new car sales collapse, the second-hand market is taking up the slack. But before you buy an old motor, do your  research, says Laura Howard. Read more

Hang-up on cold-calling companies

Update: Tue, 26/05/2009 - 11:49

The downturn has seen a rise in debt management companies making misleading calls to consumers. But you can hang up on cold-callers for good. Read more

Paying for a mobile lifestyle

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 19/05/2009 - 11:41

You can surf the net, download applications, even count calories with the latest smart phones. Nathalie Bonney  examines our mobile future. Read more

Get the broadband speed you pay for

By Sarah Coles Update: Tue, 28/07/2009 - 12:40

Broadband speeds are still failing to live up to expectations. Sarah Coles explains how you can ensure you are getting the speed you're paying for. Read more

Country castle in Caerphilly, Wales, United Kingdom

Great British breaks

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 30/04/2009 - 16:32

More of us are staying in the UK for our holidays in these cash-strapped times. Nathalie Bonney surveys what’s on offer in our sceptred isle. Read more

Cut the cost of gardening

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 23/03/2010 - 17:51

Whatever the time of year, get out your wellies, shovel and fork and start weeding and planting the cost-effective way. Read more

20 steps to a frugal lifestyle

By Hannah Ricci Update: Tue, 07/04/2009 - 09:34

From entertaining at home to growing your own veg, Hannah Ricci shows how you can cut back on costs without sacrificing your quality of life. Read more

Never get ripped off again

By Liam Tarry Update: Thu, 17/09/2009 - 16:44

Shoddy goods and services can leave you tearing your hair out, yet far too many of us just put up and shut up. Liam Tarry shows how you can make a stand against getting ripped off. Read more

Six steps to cutting your shopping bill

Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 15:42

From the cost of a supermarket shop to keeping up with fashion or having a night on the tiles, follow our six steps to reducing your shopping bill. Read more

Is your gym taking you for a ride?

By Sarah Coles Update: Thu, 17/12/2009 - 13:24

Cancelling gym membership - or making a complaint against fee hikes - can be notoriously hard. Sarah Coles explains what your rights are and how to handle your gym when disputes arise. Read more

Moneywise budget planner

Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:19

Moneywise has launched an interactive budget planner that helps you stay on top of your finances and make savings every month. Read more

21 things to do for free

By Hannah Ricci Update: Mon, 08/02/2010 - 17:59

They say the best things in life are free. Hannah Ricci shows how you and your family can have fun on a shoestring by taking advantage of free entertainment and activities. Read more

Beware the buy-to-let marketing patter

Update: Wed, 11/03/2009 - 13:15

Jim Moore, the man behind buy-to-let investment firm Inside Track, is back with two new ventures. Tony Hetherington warns investors to watch out for the risks. Read more

Beware restaurants' rip-off tricks

By Sarah Coles Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:21

Sarah Coles reveals the sneaky tricks that restaurants use to get you to part with your cash. Read more

Tracking down great sale bargains

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 15:47

Times are tough for shops as well as consumers, and as a result there seem to be endless sales across the high street. Nathalie Bonney offers her top tips on tracking down the best bargains. Read more

Five-minute guide to selling online

By Liam Tarry Update: Fri, 06/08/2010 - 17:43

More people are going online to make some money by selling their clutter. Moneywise offers its top tips on how to do it successfully. Read more

Don't shop, swap

Update: Thu, 30/04/2009 - 16:44

If you're looking to cut-back or be a little more eco-friendly, then swapping unwanted items with other people is a great way to indulge without having to spend any money. Read more

The secret sale on the high street

Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 15:51

Increasing numbers of shops are circulating discount vouchers, but there is an art to finding the best deals. Read more

Five cheaper ways to keep fit

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 05/01/2010 - 12:18

If fighting the flab and getting in shape is one of your goals for 2010 then follow our guide to losing the right sort of pounds. Read more

Don't get stung buying a used car

Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 17:29

Dodgy second-hand car dealers continue to top the complaints list at Consumer Direct. So what do you need to know before buying a used car? Read more

Furnish your home without breaking the bank

By Laura Howard Update: Fri, 08/01/2010 - 10:59

Need to furnish your home but don't want to spend a fortune? Laura Howard shows there are bargains galore out there, and not just at Ikea. Read more

Ski on the cheap

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Mon, 30/11/2009 - 18:36

Dreaming of a holiday on the slopes, but worried your budget won’t stretch that far? Nathalie Bonney shows how you can cut the cost of skiing. Read more

How to find a cheap flight

Update: Fri, 04/09/2009 - 11:42

Nathalie Bonney shares her top money-saving tips on finding a cheap flight online. Read more

The 10 golden rules of successful sales shopping

Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:43

With discounts across the high street, the sales are as big as our desire to bag a bargain. Hannah Ricci reveals the best ways to make sure you really do save money. Read more

VAT calculator

Update: Fri, 12/12/2008 - 17:54

The government has slashed the rate of VAT in the UK from 17.5% to 15%. Find out how much you could save with our free VAT calculator. Read more

Financial ‘psychics’ prey on the weak

Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:44

Consumer champion Tony Hetherington reports on how 'psychics' are offering to help stockmarket investors improve their fortunes - at a cost. Read more

The Moneywise guide to shopping online

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 10:37

Increasing numbers of people are going online to shop for clothes, food, furniture and much more. Johanna Gornitzki shares her top 10 tips on how to become a successful online shopper. Read more

Make sure your plastic matches your wallet

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 21/11/2008 - 18:05

Credit cards offer the utmost in convenience, but in the current climate it pays to be extra wary. Nathalie Bonney explains what deals are worth considering and what catches you should watch out for. Read more

Beat the MOT cowboys

By Sarah Coles Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:26

Shoddy car servicing costs drivers £4 billion a year as garages take advantage of the fact many of us don't know what's going on underneath our bonnets. Sarah Coles explains how you can beat the MOT cowboys. Read more

Could a SIM-only deal save you money?

By Emma Lunn Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:45

Ditching traditional mobile phone deals could mean the end of being tied into long contract and could also save you money. Emma Lunn finds out what’s on offer. Read more

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