Budgeting Tips to Save For Your Down Payment

Have you ever considered learning while you drive? Whether you want to make better use of a daily commute or are heading out on a long solo drive, if you want to learn a skill from behind the wheel, we have some ideas for you!The key to learning on the road is to choose something you can do with just audio media – and to make sure nothing you do is so engrossing that you lose focus. It’s important that you still drive safely, no matter what. Essentially, we recommend skills you can learn from an audiobook or podcast and repetitive activities that allow you to build up your knowledge or talents over time.Let’s take a look.Things You Can Learn While DrivingThe average American driver spends, according to a AAA survey, just over an hour in their car every single day. Why not find ways to be productive with all that time? Here are some things you can pick up while you drive.1. Learn a LanguageThis is probably the most popular skill to tackle in the car. Whether you’re brushing up on a language you learned in high school, preparing for a trip, trying to improve your chances at a new job, or learning just to stay sharp, there are tons of good reasons to learn a language while you drive. And, yes, while you’ll also need to supplement with written lessons, you can work on your listening and speaking skills in the car.Depending on which language you want to learn and your level, you’ll need different resources, but here are a few ideas for ways to get started:Starting from 0: Listen to podcasts that teach you the basics (for example, Pimsleur and LanguagePod101 both have podcast-based language lessons)For skill building: Listen to programs designed for language learners (for example, News in Slow is designed for people currently learning at a beginner to intermediate level to practice listening comprehension) For advanced learners: Grow your vocabulary and get closer to fluency by listening to music or news in your target language and trying to capture any unfamiliar words, phrases, or ideas2. Listen to the Sounds of NatureIf you’re interested in the natural world, you could use the time to learn things like the calls of birds local to your area. Avid birders in particular might find this interesting – and there are many resources for birders, since it’s such a popular hobby (BirdNote Daily is a good option) – but resources exist for frog fans and other animal lovers as well, dependent on your region. And there’s no reason you need to stick to your own backyard! Noisy by Nature is a kid-focused podcast that introduces the sounds of Australian wildlife (and is, frankly, fascinating for all ages).As an added bonus, nature sounds can also be relaxing, which is helpful when you’re stuck in traffic in a 20 minute slowdown.3. Write Better EmailsWhether you’re an English learner, a complete word nerd, or someone who struggled with writing in school and wants to up their email game, there are tons of great podcasts about English grammar, word usage, and how people speak. A few top recommendations include: Grammar GirlThe AllusionistVocal FriesYou’re Saying It WrongWebster's Word of the DayExpanding your vocabulary, mastering complex grammar rules, getting into the nitty-gritty of style, and discovering common malapropisms and mistakes can make you a better writer, reader, and conversationalist.4. Level Up Your Financial LiteracyThere are tons of great personal finance podcasts being made right now. If you’ve never spent much time thinking about budgeting, saving, or your own attitudes toward money, learning about the basics of finance while you drive could be a huge help!Planet Money, which covers current events in the world of money and investment, is a fascinating and informative podcast, while So Money, Money For the Rest of Us, and Afford Anything are a few of the many long-running hits in the finance space. Read reviews and find a podcast that fits your taste – and just remember, no podcast gives specific advice, so ask a professional before making big money moves!Trying to be smarter with money?You don’t need to learn any new skills to refinance your vehicle and start saving money. Most people are paying more than they need to be on their auto loan. A refinance can help you secure a lower rate and pay less. Plus, it’s easy! AutoApprove can help you find the right deal for your unique situation – and do the paperwork for you.Get a free, no-commitment quote to see how much you could save.5. Practice Using Your VoiceWhether you’re a nervous public speaker or thinking about getting into amateur opera, the car is the perfect place to get vocal reps in. There are tons of voice teachers making content online – you could find a vocal warm-up to try while you drive, or look up exercises in advance and put them into practice when the car door is closed.Whether you rehearse a presentation or sales pitch, practice improvising speeches, or sing do-re-mi, the car is a rare place where you can let yourself be as noisy as you want, take advantage of it!6. Build Your Understanding of MathRegardless of your current level of math expertise, you can skill build while in the car. Some people work on basic skills like solving simple number problems, memorizing multiplication tables, or learning more of the digits of pi. Or, if you prefer to simply listen, there are many engaging math listens that can make you fall in love with math. A few top podcast options include: The Joy of XBreaking MathMy Favorite TheoremOpinionated History of MathematicsLeveling up your understanding of math can help you see the world in a new light! And hey, maybe you can impress your friends with your new intel.7. Learn About the WorldLast but certainly not least, there are so many great educational podcasts about all manner of things, from history to economics to niche scientific fields. Taking the time to simply learn broadly about different topics that interest you wherever you can is a very productive way to spend your time in the car. Some of the best options happen to overlap with our recommended podcasts for long drives, like Ologies, 99% Invisible, The Happiness Lab, and Revolutions. But the thing that interests you most when you set out on the road is always the best option, whatever that may be – even if it’s something silly like the workings of ‘90s cars or learning to understand Morse code. Whatever you choose, expanding your worldview and learning something new is always a good choice!And Those Are Seven Useful Ways To Spend Your Driving TimeMost of us spend quite a bit of time behind the wheel, trying to make something of that time is an admirable pursuit! From language learning to amateur opera performance, there’s always something interesting to do to pass the time and challenge your mind.But refinancing your vehicle doesn’t take any time at all.You could be paying less monthly on your auto loan, putting more cash back in your pocket for the things that matter most. Find out how much you could save with just a few clicks and no commitment. Get your free quote now.

Let’s talk about five of the essential things every car owner should know.There are tons of skills you come by naturally as you start driving. Some things you learn for your drivers license exam, some skills you pick up as you start driving. But there are a few things not everyone knows how to do that can make you a better car owner and help you feel more confident on the road.These are some of the top skills you need to take time to learn once you own a car. Let’s take a closer look.Essential Skills for Drivers and Car OwnersTake a peek at the list. Do you know how to do all of these things? Most people will have learned at least some of these skills naturally, but taking time to really master them can help you drive safer and keep your car in great condition longer.1. How to Check and Change a TireIt’s important to get to know your tires, and recognize the right tire for your vehicle. But buying the right tires is only the beginning – tire maintenance and tire changing are super handy skills for every driver. The same is true for recognizing, checking, and changing or replacing fluids like engine coolant, brake fluid, windshield washing fluid, transmission fluid, and engine oil. If you see a liquid coming out of your vehicle, being able to recognize what fluid it most likely is and whether or not it constitutes a safety hazard is key.To get you started here are the essentials of changing a tire:Find somewhere safe to park on a level, firm surface.Turn on your hazard lights.Gather your tools: spare tire, car jack, lug wrench, and your owner’s manualReview any important information in the manual about tire changes for your specific vehicle Loosen but do not remove the lug nuts (which may be under the hub cap)Position the car jack at your vehicle’s jack points based on the instruction in the car owner’s manual (sometimes marked with a notch on the chassis)Slowly raise the car with the jackFinish loosening and remove the lug nuts, keeping them somewhere you can easily find them again where they can’t roll awayRemove the flat tire and replace it with the spare, lining the spare up with the wheel studsReplace the lug nuts and gently start screwing them in by handLower the car Use your lug wrench to tighten the lug nutsPut all your equipment back where you usually keep itCheck tire pressure for all tires (you may want to go to a garage to make sure everything’s good to go and your tire pressure is even)Return to the road, driving slowly and carefully if you’re driving on a donutPracticing changing your tire a few times at home can make it much less stressful if and when you need to change one on the road.2. How to Deep Clean Your Car YourselfWhile automatic car washes are handy and typically fairly affordable, deep cleaning and detailing your car can get expensive and time consuming. Knowing how to keep your car clean and how to handle stains and wear and tear on the inside and outside can improve your driving experience. After all, according to AAA, American drivers spent an average of 60.2 minutes behind the wheel every day as of 2022. Making that space clean and comfortable can help that hour of driving feel less stressful.Plus, deep cleaning your car yourself can save you money, and some people find it meditative!Speaking of saving money…Here’s one more thing every car owner should know how to do: lower their car payment quickly and hassle-free with Auto Approve!Get a free quote to see how much you could save.3. How to Read A Paper MapOnce a ubiquitous skill, knowing how to read a paper map is less and less common with the rise of GPS and digital map apps for the phone and in-car systems. However, it’s important that drivers of all ages master this skill and keep it sharp to be safe. You never know when you could lose service or battery power. Having a map in your glovebox and knowing how to read can help save headaches should you land in a tough spot. The last thing you want in the case of a breakdown is to add not knowing where you are to an already stressful situation.And reading a map isn’t all – all drivers should have on hand and know how to read their vehicle’s manual. You never want to be stranded somewhere trying to guess the meaning of an alert you’ve never seen before!While reading a map might not be absolutely essential when you’re staying close to home, it can come in handy if you want to plan a road trip – and even more so when you hit the road and venture into new areas further from home (and, depending on where you’re heading, further from robust network coverage!).4. How to Drive in Bad WeatherGiven shifting norms for how often we see major storms – and new types of storms hitting areas that once rarely saw, for example, snow storms or hurricanes – knowing how to drive, and when not to drive, in all kinds of weather is an absolute must.Driving in winter storms or heavy rain can mean different risks and challenges than, say, very strong winds or a heatwave. Prepare for all possibilities by brushing up on your driving skills and keeping an emergency kit in your truck.In general, when the weather is crazy and you’re on the road, slow down, leave extra space between you and the car in front of you, and remember that if you start to slide, the best thing to do is take your foot off the gas and gently steer the front of your car toward the direction you want it to go.5. How To Recognize Warning Signs from An Old CarLast but certainly not least, assuming you do everything right and your vehicle serves you well for over a decade, you’ll want to start keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear that might mean a car is on its last legs. There’s a rule of thumb called the 30/60/90 rule in auto maintenance that suggests you should take your car in for servicing and preventative maintenance every 30,000 miles. This is true regardless of how long the vehicle’s been on the road and whether or not it’s showing any of the major old car warning signs. Preventative maintenance can help catch problems early and let you drive with confidence even after years with your vehicle. If everything’s looking good, you just need to keep an eye out for rusting, brake issues, bumping or bouncing, or a persistent check engine light. And One More Thing Every Car Owner Needs to Know…How to lower their car payment! Auto Approve can help you lower your vehicle payment in minutes.Most people are overpaying on their auto loanIf you got your vehicle from a dealership, there’s a good chance you’re overpaying on your auto loan, thanks to dealer markups on rates. Auto Approve can help you find out whether you’re eligible for a better rate and start paying less through refinancing. To get started, all you have to do is answer a few questions, no commitment required. Then, an Auto Approve associate can help you find the best deal for you. Once you choose your refinance, Auto Approve does the paperwork, making the process quick and easy!Get your free quote to see how much you could save today.

Whether you’re saving up for a milestone purchase or just need to tighten up your budget, saving money is never a bad thing.But too often, when we think about ways to spend less, we think about major lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, studies suggest that if you feel like you’re depriving yourself, you may be more likely to slip and return to old spending habits. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 10 easy ways to save money that don’t require sweeping changes. Of course, there are cases where small savings won’t be enough, but making money saving tricks like these a habit can help you keep your spending in check and put more in savings to weather financial emergencies throughout your life.Here Are 10 Easy Ways to Spend LessWhile not every option will work for everyone, with these tips you can save a few extra bucks for a nice dinner out this month – or hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the course of a year.1. Opt for lower cost optionsIf you want to save a little extra cash this month or curb your monthly spending, one of the easiest things you can do is switch to cheaper options wherever possible. This can be as small as switching tomato paste or pasta brands, where you might save only a few cents or dollars at a time, or bigger changes like opting for a less expensive restaurant for date night, thoughtfully selecting subscriptions to downgrade, or shopping at an outlet version of your favorite clothing store next time you need something. Comparison shopping to find the lowest price for something can even be thrilling when you find a great deal!While you might not notice small changes like these right away, that’s exactly why they’re so smart – over time, you’ll spend less on every purchase, without feeling like you’ve made a big change.2. Watch your spending closelyFor many people, a simple change that can make a difference is just spending more time paying attention to what they’re spending and where. That means logging into your bank account more often and looking at where your money is actually going. Most people can find areas to save money just by paying more attention.If you don’t already have a set budget, this is also a great opportunity to start creating categories and setting spending limits for how much you spend in a month. Basic budgeting is never a bad idea, and can make a huge difference if you’re struggling to save.3. Pick DIY over done-for-you where you canThis tip applies broadly – wherever you can save money by doing something yourself, do it! This can mean making your meals at home, bringing a water bottle instead of buying one, picking things up yourself instead of having them delivered, having a movie night in with popcorn and snacks instead of going to a theater, and so on.Incremental changes – like still getting takeaway, but ordering it in person instead of using an app – can save you money with minimal sacrifice. Small repetitive purchases we don’t spend time thinking about can be a huge money suck when added up.Of course, you might not be able to save up a home down payment by making your coffee at home, but being selective about every spending habit can help you splurge smarter.4. Lower your car costsOur favorite easy way to save money on autopilot? Refinancing your vehicle. Most people are paying more on their monthly car payment than they need to be, thanks to dealership markups. A refinance can mean a lower monthly payment, a lower rate, or both – putting more money back in your pocket for the things that matter most.Getting a quote is easy and takes just a few clicks, no commitment required.Find out how much you could save today.5. Set fun challenges for yourselfAnother sneaky way to save money without feeling like you’re saving money is to turn it into a game or challenge for yourself. You could try eating vegetarian for a week, or take out your treat budget in cash and see how far you can stretch it. Challenge yourself to cook recipes from a specific cookbook or to make meals out of what you already have in your freezer and pantry.As well as having money saving potential, giving yourself projects – like sanding and repainting a thrift shop bookshelf or learning to patch your own clothes – can help you build money-saving skills and keep you excited and interested in low cost activities. A lot of saving money is a mental game – if you can learn to actually enjoy and want to do and try less expensive things, you can make saving money a breeze.6. Become a food waste warriorAmericans waste tons of food each year. As well as being hard on the environment, it’s a big waste of money. The good news is, becoming more conscientious about food waste can also mean spending less on food.There are tons of great resources for people who want to master zero-waste cooking, and many companies that help connect food that might otherwise go to waste to people who want it at a discount. There are several companies that offer perfectly good fruits and vegetables that grocery stores won’t sell because they’re oddly shaped or too large or too small. There are apps where you can buy deeply discounted meals and baked goods from local eateries that have extras that won’t be sellable by the next day. Some might worry that they’re taking away food from people who need it, but statistically much of that food isn’t going to find someone who wants it before it goes bad. Buying bread from a bakery on discount at the end of the day is doing a favor to the people along the food chain who worked so hard to grow the wheat, ship the flour, bake the bread, who don’t want to see it end up in a landfill just because no one will want to buy it tomorrow.7. Join a buy nothing groupBuy nothing groups have become much more common in the last 5-10 years. They’re usually location-based, so you’d join one for your neighborhood or community, and can typically be found on social media.The idea of buy nothing groups is that, often, we only need things for a certain amount of time, and don’t use everything we have every day. If your neighbor needs an extra blender for a party, you might lend her yours for the day, rather than her going out and buying one. If you have a child who’s outgrown their old clothes, you might find another mom whose child is just growing into that size to give the clothes to. This is something people do naturally anyway with those they know – neighborhood groups just expand the circle of people you can ask and give.Doing this can prevent old clothes and electronics from ending up in landfills and help everyone spend less over time.8. Revisit old favoritesSometimes, you don’t need something new – you just need to dig into the back of a closet. Rereading a book you loved in college, shining an old pair of shoes, depilling an old jacket, plugging the InstaPot back in, digging out a board game you used to love can all be a boost. And old clothes can be mixed and matched to look in style again with a little creativity. Most of us have something in the house we’ve never touched or loved once but haven’t thought about in a long time. Dusting off whatever that is for you and falling in love with it again is a great way to feel like you’re changing things up without spending a penny!9. Throw time at big purchasesDespite being at number nine, this is one of the most important items on this list. Many of the things we’ve talked about focus on small purchases. When it comes to big purchases, this is the top tip for financial experts everywhere. If you want something that will be a big purchase for your budget, do all the research you want, and then wait a month and see how you feel. If you still want it in a month – and it’s worth the cost to you, and you can afford it – then you can decide to move forward with the purchase. For expensive non-essentials, this buffer time can help you avoid unnecessary impulse purchases and help you put the cost in perspective relative to your work and other expenses. 10. Save with coupons and pointsLast but certainly not least, one of the easiest ways to save without lifting a finger is to pay attention to coupons and sales, and time necessary purchases to ensure you get the best deal on them. Loyalty programs, points, sales, coupons – making them part of your spending plans can pay off royally. Most grocery stores and pharmacies have loyalty programs, and of course there are often sales around certain holidays, but you can get even more granular, choosing coffee shops with punch cards or downloading the apps for your favorite chains.Use These 10 Tips For Saving Money To Simplify Spending Less We’ve all heard the old adage, “a penny saved is a penny earned.” Some of these tricks might seem small, but add them up and you’ll be saving a pretty penny in no time.Start now by finding out how much you can save on your auto loanWhen you refinance your vehicle with Auto Approve, you get personalized help to make sure you find the best deal for you. And once you choose your new loan, we do the paperwork for you, meaning you save not just money, but time too.Get your free quote now.