If you are constantly on a shoestring budget and are always out of cash, take a good look at your spending and lifestyle habits. You will find that by making a few minor changes, you can both fatten your wallet and have a savings account to fall back on. Saving money isn’t difficult, it’s just a matter of commitment. Even if you think you have no money to save, you will be surprised at the ways it’s thrown out the window. The following are 8 easy small ways to save your money.

1. Watch Your Spending

Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you can afford it. Spending less means having more. Identifying those items you really need versus those items that are just nice to have is difficult for most people. Stay away from sales unless you have a specific reason to purchase. Try to identify and eliminate unnecessary extras, such as subscribing to newspapers that collect dust in your house. Curbing spending is key to saving money.

2. Eat At Home

Don’t go shopping on an empty stomach. Buying snacks on-the-run and impulsive supermarket purchases can increase your food bill by as much as 20% or more. It can also increase your waistline. If you work away from home, pack your lunch. It takes the same amount of time to prepare lunch at home as it does to stand in line at the food court or cafeteria. You’ll be surprised at how much extra cash will be in your wallet at the end of the week. If you make nutritional choices, your health will improve as well.

3. Beware of the ATM

Withdrawing money from an ATM machine is a fast and convenient way to get cash, and they’re everywhere. However, frequent visits to the ATM machine and using an ATM that is not owned by your bank can be an expensive habit. Make sure you really need the cash before you make the withdrawal. If you must use an ATM, make sure your bank owns it. If not, you will likely get hit with two transaction fees, one from each bank. Taking out a fast $20 at an ATM that is not owned by your bank could cost you $25 or more. Check with your local branch to find out exact transaction fee amounts.

4. Establish Automatic Savings

Setting up a monthly scheduled transfer of a fixed amount from your checking account into a savings account can be a fast way to build a small cushion of cash for later use. Start small enough so that you’re not tempted to make frequent withdrawals. When you can afford more, gradually increase the amount. Before you know it, you’ll have a savings account that you can rely upon for a rainy day.