65 Quick Wins to Help Beat Awful April

Practical ways to save money across food, energy, bills, subscriptions and more.

It’s 1st April – and for millions of UK households, ‘Awful April’ has officially arrived.

From today, a wave of price rises is hitting everything from energy bills to council tax. Water bills are going up by an average of £10 a month in England and Wales, and energy costs are rising by £111 a year for typical households. Council tax is increasing by nearly 5% in most of England, and up to 9.5% in parts of Wales. That’s all before you factor in broadband, mobile, TV and other living costs.

But while the bills are going up, there are still loads of ways to bring your outgoings down.

At NetVoucherCodes, we’ve pulled together a huge list of quick wins and actionable tips that could save you hundreds (or even thousands) of pounds per year, often with just a few simple changes! From using your freezer more smartly to switching broadband plans, downgrading streaming services and slashing your grocery bill, these are real, achievable savings you can make today.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just feeling the squeeze, these bite-sized money-saving tips can help soften the blow of Awful April and beyond.

What’s In This Guide?

• Freezer-Saving Hacks
• Subscriptions and Streaming
• Utilities and Energy
• Food and Groceries
• Travel and Transport
• Household and Lifestyle
• Mobile Phones
• How We’ve Saved

Freezer-Saving Hacks

Your freezer isn’t just for chips and ice cream – it’s one of the easiest ways to cut down on food waste, stretch ingredients further, and avoid unnecessary top-up shops.

Freeze cheese before it spoils

Most hard cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella freeze well. Grating and freezing them in portions means less waste and quicker meals. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re not throwing money in the bin.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £80

Freeze milk to stop it going off

Milk- both dairy and plant-based- can be frozen and used later for hot drinks, baking or cooking. It lasts for months in the freezer, helping you avoid those last-minute top-up shops.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £30 – £60

Freeze overripe bananas for baking or smoothies

Bananas that have gone too soft for snacking can be frozen and reused in smoothies, pancakes or banana bread. Just peel them before freezing or slice them for easy use later.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £20 – £40

Cook and freeze potatoes before they go off

Raw potatoes don’t freeze well, but mash, roasties and chips do. If you’ve got a big bag that won’t get used in time, cook and freeze portions for later.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £25 – £50

Freeze mushrooms before they turn

Slice and freeze mushrooms before they go slimy. They’re ideal for adding straight into hot meals like stir-fries, soups and pasta sauces.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £15 – £30

Freeze baby food to save time and money

Batch-cooking baby food and freezing it in small tubs or ice cube trays cuts down on waste and saves money compared to jars or pouches.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £100

Freeze breast milk to build a backup supply

If you’re expressing, storing breast milk in the freezer gives you flexibility and cuts down on reliance on formula or emergency top-ups.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £300

Plan ahead and freeze food before the use-by date

Don’t wait until the food is on the turn. If you’re not going to eat it in time, freeze it. Most items like meat, cooked meals, dairy and bread, freeze well if stored properly.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100+ per household

Freeze-cooked rice to extend shelf life

If you’ve cooked too much rice, freeze it in portions for easy future meals. It reheats well and avoids waste after a few days in the fridge.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £20 – £40

Don’t rebuy what you can freeze

Always check your freezer before going shopping, as you may already have milk, cheese or vegetables frozen that you forgot about.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £100

Use freezer-safe labels to track frozen food

Labelling containers with the name and date helps you stay organised and prevents unnecessary purchases or freezer waste.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £10 – £30

Freeze in portions for easy, waste-free use

Freeze milk, sauces, leftovers and cooked food in individual portions so you only defrost what you need, meaning no more waste.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £25 – £60

Subscriptions and Streaming

Streaming services and subscriptions can be a sneaky expense. A few simple tweaks can help you stay entertained while keeping monthly costs firmly under control. Find out how Ellie, from NetVoucherCodes saved over £400 using our top tips.

Rotate streaming services monthly to save

Instead of paying for several platforms at once, subscribe to just one each month. Plan your viewing, binge what you want to watch, cancel, and move on to the next. This is often called “subscription hopping” or “leapfrogging” and is one of the easiest ways to cut back without missing out.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £300–£420

Downgrade your Netflix or Disney+ plan

Many households are paying for premium tiers they don’t use. If you’re not watching in 4K or sharing with others, switching to a basic or ad-supported plan could cut your bill significantly.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £96+

Use free trials wisely

Most platforms offer a 7 to 30-day free trial. Wait until your favourite show is fully released, then use the trial to binge-watch and cancel before it renews. Set a calendar reminder so you don’t forget.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £60 – £150

Cancel and wait for a retention deal

Thinking of cancelling a subscription? Go through the process and select “too expensive” as your reason. Some platforms will offer you a temporary discount or a free month to tempt you back.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £30 – £60 per service

Use apps to find the cheapest shows

Before subscribing, use free tools like JustWatch or WatchPlayStream to find out where your favourite series or film is available. Many shows are free to watch on BBC iPlayer, ITVX or All4.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50+

Stream free with UK services like iPlayer, All4, ITVX and Freevee

There’s loads of high-quality content available legally and free of charge with a TV licence. These platforms are often overlooked, but they offer boxsets, films, documentaries and more. Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £300

Get 3 months of Disney+ for £8 in Clubcard points

Tesco Clubcard holders can swap £8 worth of vouchers for 3 months of Disney+. This is a much cheaper way to access the platform than paying directly.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £31.97

Check your phone contract for free streaming perks

Networks like O2 and Vodafone often bundle 3 to 6 months of streaming services like Disney+, Apple TV or Spotify when you upgrade or take out a new plan.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £60 – £90

Switch from Sky Q to NOW TV to cut monthly TV costs

Sky packages can cost £28 – £46 per month. NOW TV offers many of the same channels on a no-contract basis for under £10, and you can cancel anytime.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £120+

Utilities and Energy

Energy bills are on the rise – but that doesn’t mean yours has to be. These small changes at home can lead to big savings on your gas, electricity and water usage.

Lower your thermostat by 1°C

Turning your thermostat down by just one degree can make a big difference to your annual heating bill. Most households won’t even notice the temperature change, but the energy savings can be significant over the year.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £80

Switch off appliances at the plug

Many devices still draw power when left on standby. Turning off items like TVs, game consoles and microwaves at the socket when not in use helps reduce energy waste without affecting your lifestyle.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £30

Replace bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs

LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer. Swapping out the most-used lights in your home can quickly reduce your electricity bill.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £30 – £60

Install loft insulation

A quarter of your home’s heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. Installing loft insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to keep heat in and energy bills down.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £355

Insulate cavity walls

If your home has cavity walls and they’re not insulated, you could be losing a huge amount of heat. Installing insulation helps reduce heating costs long term, particularly in older properties.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £690

Draught-proof windows and doors

Cold draughts let warm air escape and make heating less efficient. Simple measures like fitting draught excluders or self-adhesive foam strips around windows and doors can keep more heat in.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £40

Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth

Leaving the tap running while brushing your teeth wastes around 6 litres of water a minute. Turning it off is an easy habit that cuts water use, especially if you’re on a meter.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £40

Use cold water for quick handwashing or rinses

You don’t always need hot water for simple tasks like washing your hands or rinsing vegetables. Switching to cold water where it makes sense can reduce the amount of energy used to heat water.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable

Use smart plugs or timers to control appliances

Smart plugs and timers allow you to automatically switch off unused appliances overnight or during the day. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re not wasting energy when things are left on.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £40 – £80

Unplug devices like TVs and microwaves when not in use

Even when not in active use, appliances with displays or standby functions continue to draw power. Unplugging them or using a master switch can cut that passive energy usage.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £10 – £25+ depending on device

Use a slow cooker instead of your oven

Slow cookers use far less energy than ovens and can make large, hearty meals for very little cost. They’re especially efficient for stews, casseroles and batch cooking.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable, but often £50+

Boil water using a kettle rather than the hob

Boiling water in the kettle is more energy-efficient than heating it on the stove. Use it to boil water for pasta, rice or veg, then transfer it to a saucepan.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable

Turn the oven off 5 – 10 minutes early

Most ovens stay hot enough to finish cooking even after being switched off. Turning it off a little early saves energy without affecting your food.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable

Food and Groceries

Groceries are one of the biggest weekly expenses for most households. With a little planning and a few smart swaps, you can feed your family well for a lot less.

Plan meals before you shop

Creating a weekly meal plan helps you only buy what you actually need, reducing food waste and impulse purchases. It also makes midweek cooking easier and cuts down on last-minute takeaways.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £300 – £500

Write a shopping list and stick to it

Going to the supermarket without a list is a fast track to overspending. Writing down what you need, and sticking to it, helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary extras.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £200 – £300

Switch from branded to own-label products

Many supermarket own-brand items are made in the same factories as big-name products. Swapping to own-label staples like pasta, cereal, cleaning products, and tinned goods can cut your bill dramatically.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £500 – £700 for a family of four

Shop in the evening for yellow sticker bargains

Most supermarkets discount fresh items like meat, bread and ready meals later in the day. These yellow sticker deals can be frozen or eaten that night for a fraction of the full price.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £250 – £400

Use supermarket loyalty schemes

Schemes like Tesco Clubcard, Nectar, Lidl Plus and My Morrisons offer exclusive discounts, bonus points and personalised vouchers. Scan your app or card every time you shop to make the most of these perks.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £200

Buy frozen fruit and veg instead of fresh

Frozen produce is often cheaper than fresh and just as nutritious. It also lasts longer and lets you use only what you need, reducing waste and saving money.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £150 – £250

Use cashback apps on groceries

Apps like Shopmium, CheckoutSmart and GreenJinn offer cashback on everyday grocery items. Scan your receipt or claim offers in the app for savings on things you were buying anyway.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £150

Batch cook and freeze leftovers

Cooking in bulk and freezing meals saves time and avoids those expensive midweek takeaways. It’s also a smart way to use up fresh ingredients before they go off.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £200 – £350

Avoid shopping when hungry

If you shop while hungry, you’re more likely to buy snacks, treats and impulse items. Eating beforehand can help keep your trolley and your bill under control.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £200

Use unit prices to compare value

Bigger packs aren’t always better value. Use the price per 100g or per litre (usually listed on the shelf label) to compare products properly and get the best deal.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £100

Defrost food in the fridge overnight

Defrosting food slowly in the fridge shortens the cooking time and reduces the energy needed to heat it. It’s also safer and better for food hygiene.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable

Parboil potatoes before roasting

Parboiling potatoes softens them before roasting, reducing the cooking time and energy needed to get them crispy.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable

Travel and Transport

From car insurance to commuting, transport costs can quickly add up. These tips can help you get where you’re going for less, without cutting corners.

Shop around before renewing your car insurance

Loyalty doesn’t always pay. Use comparison sites to check quotes from multiple insurers around 20–26 days before your policy is due to renew, this is often the perfect time to find cheaper car insurance deals.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100+

Pay car insurance annually instead of monthly

Monthly instalments often come with interest or admin fees that increase the overall cost. If you can afford to pay the full amount upfront, you’ll usually get a better deal.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £100

Increase your voluntary excess

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can reduce your premium, but make sure it’s still an amount you can comfortably pay if you need to claim.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Varies depending on insurer and policy

Enhance vehicle security

Installing alarms, immobilisers, or tracking systems reduces your car’s risk profile and can lower your insurance premium. Parking in a garage or well-lit area can also help.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Varies, but often £50+

Limit your annual mileage

The less you drive, the lower your risk in the eyes of insurers. If you can reasonably reduce your estimated mileage – by walking, cycling or working from home – you could see cheaper quotes.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Varies based on your current mileage

Walk or cycle short journeys

Avoid driving for local errands or short trips where possible. It’s free, healthier, and cuts down on fuel costs, parking fees and car wear and tear.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Around £115

Use public transport discount cards

If you regularly travel by train or bus, check if you qualify for a discount card like the 16–25 Railcard, Two Together Railcard or Disabled Person’s Railcard. These often cut fares by a third.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £150

Carpool with colleagues or friends

Sharing lifts to work, school, or events can halve your fuel and parking costs. If you’re doing a regular journey, splitting the cost is an easy win.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Around £200

Household and Lifestyle

Every day habits and household routines have more impact on your budget than you might think. These ideas will help you save money around the home, without making life harder.

Cancel unused subscriptions and memberships

It’s easy to forget about monthly payments for things like gyms, magazines or apps. Go through your bank statements and cancel anything you no longer use.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £200 – £500

Borrow or rent rarely-used items

For things like DIY tools, garden equipment or party supplies, consider borrowing from friends or renting locally rather than buying new. You’ll save money and reduce clutter.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Varies depending on the item

Use your local library for books, audiobooks and films

Instead of buying new books, DVDs or magazines, use your local library’s free services. Many also offer digital borrowing through apps like Libby and BorrowBox.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £150

Switch to reusable household items

Reusable alternatives to disposable products – like cloth nappies, cleaning cloths, or rechargeable batteries – can save money in the long run and reduce waste.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £300

Line-dry clothes instead of using a tumble dryer

Air-drying your washing, even part of the time, cuts electricity use and extends the life of your clothes.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £60 – £100

Collect and use rainwater in the garden

Installing a water butt lets you collect rainwater for watering plants, saving on water bills, especially if you’re on a meter.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £30 – £60

Use a slow cooker or microwave where possible

Slow cookers and microwaves are more energy-efficient than ovens for many meals. Use them for batch cooking, stews, and reheating.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Variable, but often £50+

Make your own cleaning products

Simple ingredients like white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda can be used to make effective, low-cost cleaning products at home.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Around £50

Grow your own herbs and vegetables

You don’t need a garden – windowsill herbs or a few pots on the patio can still save you money and reduce food waste.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £100

Repair rather than replace

Fixing broken items – like sewing up torn clothes or repairing small appliances – can delay replacements and save money.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Around £75

Clean with everyday household items

Use what you already have at home to tackle common cleaning tasks:

• Use denture tablets to clean stained vases
• Use toothpaste and a toothbrush to clean tile grout
• Use baking powder to deodorise carpets
• Clean windows with distilled water and washing-up liquid
• Steam clean microwaves with water and vinegar
• Use a hairdryer to blow dust out of radiators
• Use a shower squeegee to lift pet hair from carpets
• Use a stiff brush to sweep carpets instead of vacuuming

Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £10.40 per room (vacuum alternative)

Mobile Phones

Whether your phone’s superglued to your hands or you only use it for the odd call, the chances are you’re overpaying for the minutes, texts and data you use.

Recycle your old handset for cash

Before buying a new phone, check if your old device can be traded in or recycled for cash. Many networks and third-party sites offer money for handsets – even older models – which can go towards your upgrade.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Up to £400 (depending on handset model)

Choose the right way to pay for your phone

You don’t always need to sign a contract to get a good deal. Compare options like buying the phone outright with a SIM-only plan, spreading the cost with interest-free finance, or choosing a traditional contract. What works best depends on your budget and how long you plan to keep the phone.
Estimated Yearly Saving: Varies depending on contract type

Don’t overpay for data you don’t use

Check your current data usage and make sure your plan matches it. Many people pay for unlimited data they never actually use. Downgrading to a smaller data allowance can reduce your monthly bill.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £60 – £120

Take advantage of free extras with contracts

When shopping for a new phone deal, look for bundled extras like streaming services, cashback, accessories or free gifts. These can add real value without raising the price – especially if you’d be paying for those extras separately.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £150 (depending on offer)

Compare SIM-only deals

If you already have a handset or are happy with a refurbished model, SIM-only plans are often significantly cheaper than full contracts. You’ll also avoid long tie-ins and credit checks.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100 – £250

Consider a refurbished phone

Buying a refurbished phone from a trusted retailer can save hundreds compared to a new one. Many come with warranties and have been tested for quality, making them a smart alternative to brand-new handsets.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £150 – £300

Avoid auto-renewing your contract

When your contract ends, your provider may quietly switch you to a more expensive rolling tariff. Set a reminder to review your deal and switch or negotiate a better offer as soon as you’re out of contract.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £100+

Use price comparison sites for phone deals

Before signing up for a new plan, compare deals using mobile comparison sites. These platforms let you filter by network, data allowance, and handset to make sure you’re getting the best value.
Estimated Yearly Saving: £50 – £100

How We’ve Saved

Like most people, I’d signed up to loads of different streaming platforms during lockdown – and never got round to cancelling them. I realised I was paying for Netflix, Disney+, Prime and Spotify all at once, even though I was barely using half of them.

I started rotating them monthly instead of keeping them all going, and instantly cut my costs by around £30 a month. I also found out that I could swap £8 of my Tesco Clubcard vouchers for 3 months of Disney+, which felt like a no-brainer. Altogether, I’ve saved over £400 a year just by managing my subscriptions better – without missing out on the shows I love.
— Ellie Macsymons, Savings Expert at NetVoucherCodes