Money
Getting the best deal
Offers of the week - February 4, 2010
Money writer Laura Howard gives you the lowdown on some inspired money-saving deals
Quids in this Valentine
While you may not be popular if you fail to acknowledge Valentine's Day completely, you won't want to blow a fortune on it either. Voucherhub.com has lovingly dedicated a whole section of discount vouchers – ranging from flowers to restaurants – to the occasion. Take a look what's on offer here - www.Voucherhub.com/valentines
Don't blindly renew your existing motor cover
According to the AA British Insurance Premium Index published at the end of last month, the average quoted premium for comprehensive motor cover saw a whopping 18.7% hike on this time last year. This is the steepest annual rise since the index began back in 1994. Don't simply renew your existing cover. Instead shop around for the cheapest deal and check out Saga's 20% discount online offering here.
Sign up to Skype
If you have friends and relations living abroad you'll be relieved that the cost of international calls has tumbled in recent years. But why pay anything at all if you don't have to? Instead invest in a pair of basic headphones and sign up to Skype – an online service through which you can talk to anyone, anywhere in the world for as long as you like – and totally free of charge.
Check out the charity shops
The month or so after Christmas is said to be the best time of year to sift out good quality bargains from your local second hand stores. This is because, by now, it's often too late to take goods back to the shop for a refund or exchange, so never-been-worn garments end up on the shelves of the charity shop. Take full advantage!
Keep ahead of scammers
This month is Scams Awareness Month in which the Office of Fair Trading offers information to consumers on how to avoid being ripped off by fraudsters. The OFT warns that older people are prime targets of crooks who want to get their hands on your cash or personal details. Keep one step ahead by finding out what scams are operating in your area at this dedicated website launched by the government's Consumer Direct. You can report scams on the site too.
* Written by Laura Howard, this article was published on February 4, 2009. Prices and details correct at time of publication. Laura's opinions are her own and for general information only. Always seek independent advice.
