Three Expenses I Thought I Couldn’t Live Without

. If I need to do something with the Internet I write out a list and go to a local café or library, which is also a nice change of scenery. As the weeks fly by I realized I even cut down the number of trips I take to hook up to wireless Internet.

Savings: Installation $20 and monthly cost (Internet, Cable and Phone) $111.95. Savings $1,363.4.

2. iPhone

When I moved to New York I was told I needed an iPhone. Not only did it have Apps to call a cab or give directions when lost, it had guides to the best restaurants, bars and cafes among a plethora of other features. I would be lying if I said I didn’t yearn for an iPhone most of the time, but when I calculated the cost* I realized sticking with my simple phone that was free with the plan was a lot more economical.

How my life improved: I have discovered so many tiny cafés, bookstores and farmers markets from embracing my inner explorer. Not having a destination is a surprisingly relaxing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of everyday. I learned to relax and let my life fall into the hands of spontaneity.

Savings: Average iPhone Monthly Cost: $130. My monthly costs $60. Savings of $840 a year.

3. Transportation

Saying good-bye to my beloved car, Harry the Honda was tough. I immediately bought a monthly transit pass upon arrival costing me $89. After a few weeks I started walking to work, and after three I started walking everywhere else. I got tired of waiting on buses, missing trains so I started leaving an hour earlier. I decided instead of buying a month pass out of convenience; Iwould just track my Metro use and plan from there.

How my life improved: I got more exercise and fresh air. When I walk or bike it is more of an accomplishment, I literally put in the work to get to where I am going.  Not to mention the health benefits of burning a few extra calories during the week.

Savings: Monthly Pass $89, I found I could just spend $45. Savings of $528 a year.

Just by cutting out these three costs I could save up to$2,732 in one year while also improving my life. I do miss the convenience of the Internet and I have always been a little bit of a couch potato. I have also been known to browse through some fancy phones in the store, and when winter rolls around I may not be such a fan of languid strolls to my destination. For now, I am perfectly content being disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the technological world when I am off of work.

How about you? Can you cut out cable and Internet after work hours for a week or even just a weekend? Or what about not relying on your car to get around? Try getting rid of one of these three for a week or the weekend. Can you do it? Let me know!