8 money saving tips in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a beautiful country with a high standard of living. However, the cost of living in this country is also relatively high compared to other European countries. As an expat, you may find it challenging to manage your finances in this country, especially if you’re not familiar with the local prices and regulations. Therefore, it is essential to learn some tips on how to save money in the Netherlands, especially when it comes to your monthly subscriptions, such as internet, mobile, and utilities. Here are eight tips for expats on how to save money in the Netherlands.
Shop around for the best deals
The first and foremost thing you should do is shop around for the best deals on your monthly subscriptions. In the Netherlands, there are several internet providers, mobile operators, and utility companies, each with their own prices and plans. Therefore, it is worth taking the time to compare prices and find the best deals for your needs. You can use comparison websites or check out the companies’ websites to see their plans and prices.
Currently, there are 2 websites that offer great SIM only deals for expats:
If you are in need of a new internet provider we would recommend you to look on the website of T-mobile.
Create a budget
The first step to saving money is to create a budget. This means tracking your income and expenses, and making a plan for your spending. Start by writing down all your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment. Then, subtract your expenses from your income to see how much money you have left over each month. Use this leftover money to save for emergencies and future goals. You can find a free excel template to manage your expenses at the Peaks website.
Use bike as a transportation mode
The Netherlands is known for its bike-friendly culture, and cycling is a great way to get around. It’s not only cheaper than using public transportation, but it’s also a great way to stay active and healthy. If you plan to use a bike frequently, consider buying a used bike instead of a new one to save money.
Cancel unused subscriptions
Many people subscribe to various services or memberships but rarely use them. If you have subscriptions or memberships that you don’t use regularly, it’s time to cancel them. For example, if you have a gym membership but never go to the gym, cancel it and save yourself some money.
Use prepaid services
If you’re not a heavy internet or mobile user, using prepaid services can be a great way to save money. Prepaid plans allow you to pay only for the services you use, rather than paying a fixed monthly fee. Therefore, if you only use your mobile phone or internet occasionally, a prepaid plan might be a better option for you.
Be energy-efficient
One of the significant expenses in the Netherlands is utilities, such as gas and electricity. Therefore, it is essential to be energy-efficient and reduce your energy consumption. You can do this by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and turning down the thermostat when you’re not at home.
Use public transportation
The Netherlands has an excellent public transportation system, and using it can save you a lot of money on gas, parking, and car maintenance. You can best look on the website of NS and get a deal there. They offer excellent seasonal tickets that can be used by everyone.
Shop around for insurance
When it comes to insurance, shopping around can help you save a lot of money. Compare rates from different insurance companies to find the best deal.