MyFamilyClub - Money Saving Made Easy

There is a wealth of apps out there – some clever, some fun, you name it, there’s an app for that; but how about a smartphone app that could save you money? Here's our pick of 10 money-saving apps that could help trim your everyday spending.

1. 0870

Price: 69p

Available for: iPhone or SayNoto0870 for Android

Ever been on the end of a costly customer service call as your bank balance drains in the process? This gem of an app finds you an alternative 01 or 02 number which is cheaper than the premium rate. It’s simple to use, just type in the 0870 number and it will search and connect you to an alternative.

It is important to remember that although it has had rave reviews, you are using it at your own risk.

2. Skype

Price: free

Available for: iPhone and Android

Calling abroad or even just calling for a catch up with your friends down the road can be costly, but with this clever app you can have a good old chinwag for free excluding your WiFi or mobile data costs. Skype also allows you to make video calls, on the move. It’s an easy to use app featuring Instant Messenger, and for a small charge you can top up with Skype credit to call or text any phone.

3. RedLaser

Price: free

Available for iPhone and Android

RedLaser is a free scanning application that lets you scan bar codes and QR codes using your phone’s camera to check prices in stores and compare to see if you’re getting the best deal. You can even locate stores nearby, and save scans for later.

4. Quidco

Price: free but the site will retain first £5 of cashback earned

Available for: iPhone and Android

If you’re already a member of Quidco you’ll be aware of the great cashback offers and other savings you can make, and with this app certain stores such as B&Q even allow you to earn cash by just checking in. It works by locating your whereabouts using GPS and listing your nearby deals; once in-store you click to check in. Although this is only around 25p per check in, this can soon add up.

You can also gain access to voucher discounts that can be presented in-store or at a restaurant, along with the usual cashback earnings when you purchase in the high street. Added extras include managing your Quidco account and shopping online whilst on the move.

5. FuelSmart UK

Price: 69p

Available for: iPhone

FuelSmart UK finds the cheapest petrol prices in your area, locating your local petrol station using either your postcode or GPS, and it’ll even give you directions to get there. It is an easy to use app, can make a real difference to your fuel bill and provides the perfect solution for getting the best deal on your petrol without the need to drive too far.

6. Fuel School

Price: 69p

Available for:  iPhone

Fuel School could help ease the burden on drivers’ wallets and family budgets by offering information about fuel efficiency; top tips include how to manage tyres and regular engine maintenance. The app even claims to save drivers up to 10% on their bills.

It uses GPS technology to determine how fast you’re zooming along and how smooth your driving is. It includes ‘the ecometer’ that gives you indicators visually and with sound to show how proficient your driving is, so there is no need to lose concentration when on the move.

7. Free Home Budget Calculator

Price: free

Available for: iPhone

A great tool to keep track of your household expenses in a clear, easy to edit and no-frills way; simply add in your monthly outgoings clearly to the categories such as mortgage/rent, tax, groceries, clothing, and it is built with a secure passcode to keep your information private.

The on screen results show your total spend and allows you to compare to your total income. You can record your day to day spending using the log and keep up to date, enabling you to budget.

8. TheTrainLine

Price: free

Available for: iPhone and Android

This handy app saves you money by allowing you to plan your journey to avoid peak times and be directed to deals on train journeys with the best fare. It gives you the ability to get up to the minute information on train times and avoid expensive routes when booking on the move.

9. AA Parking

Price: £1.99

Available for: iPhone

This nifty app finds you the cheapest and easiest to locate car parks in the UK and Ireland. You can save those precious pennies by finding a free or cheap car park, and it’ll give you clear directions. Special features include information on space available in the car park, park and ride locations, opening hours and accurate prices.

10. Love Food, Hate Waste

Price: free

Available for: iPhone and Android

With food waste costing more than £50 a month, this app can significantly help reduce it with some pretty clever interactive features. It includes a portion-sizer to help stop cooking more than you need, a weekly menu plan and shopping list function, plus a whole host of delicious recipe ideas. So if you do have leftovers you can put them to good use.