The Latte Factor: Technologies That Can Help You Save

If you’re managing your personal finances properly, you should be familiar with the term "the latte factor" or "the latte effect". You know those small expenses we often miss or completely forget after making them? Those are what experts categorize as the latte effect. $2 for coffee every day could lead to a big spend every month.

And these small expenses are worth saving, especially if you want to enjoy better restaurants, check off your travel bucket list, or even shop for the latest beauty items without breaking your bank. Of course, there are many ways to save on those unnecessary and often impulsive spending. But in terms of technologies, here are some that can help you save more.

Home Coffee Machines

The technologies behind home coffee machines have evolved so much in the last few years. Instead of complicated cappuccino makers that require special skills to operate, home users can now rely on capsule-based machines such as the Nescafe Dolce Gusto or Krups to make their own special coffee in just a few minutes.

These machines are more energy efficient and can be used with more supplies. There are even cups or cartridges designed to be refillable, so you can still pick up your favorite bag of Arabica and make your own blend without having to spend $2 to $3 for a cup of coffee twice a day, every day.

To make it even better, home coffee machines available today are also becoming more affordable as well as smarter. Some will connect to your smart home hub and automatically make coffee for you in the morning. How cool is that?

But if you're in for a simpler solution, why not try and learn to enjoy your coffee black? It's easier and more inexpensive to make, and even healthier for daily consumption in the long run.

Smarter, More Energy Efficient Home

Smart thermostats are quickly becoming a must-have. Similar to coffee machines, they are very affordable these days. In fact, you can save more electricity using a smart thermostat; so much so that the gadget will pay for itself in just a couple of months.

There are additional steps you can take to further save on your energy bills. For starters, you can check to see if you’re on the best energy plan. Energy companies are offering competitive rates to cater to more customers, so don’t be surprised to find great deals on TXU Energy’s website (www.txuenergyplans.com) and other sources.

Also, you can check to see if you have old home appliances that are not as energy-efficient as newer models and cost more to run. More often than not, old yet still usable air-conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers are just some of the home appliances that are worth upgrading than salvaging.

Extra Fees Calculators

Last, but not least, always keep the fees you pay in check. The $25 late payment fee or the banking fees you pay for transactions may seem minute at first, but they could account for up to 30% of your monthly expenses when not managed properly.

Try to avoid unnecessary fees and you’ll be able to allocate more money to other posts. Pick the cards you use wisely and don’t forget to take advantage of the best offers and loyalty programs to save even more in the long run. You now have apps and web applications that will help you keep track of the fees you pay in real-time, so the entire process is a lot easier to deal with.

Photo source: www.time.com

Saving money doesn't need you to earn lots and keep your spending minimal. It's more about being smart at managing your finances by being mindful of your spending -- how big or small it may be.

What you save on small, unnecessary expenses, you can allocate for your next holiday or the big purchase you’ve been planning for months. The more you save, the more financial flexibility you can have, the more you can invest too.