Eight top money-saving apps

Buying a smartphone isn’t cheap, but did you know these devices could also save you money?

If you own a smartphone, you probably love the convenience of having the internet and GPS quite literally at your fingertips.

However, these devices can also be fantastic money-saving resources. Here are eight of our favourite financial apps.

1. RedLaser

By using your phone’s camera, you can scan in an item’s barcode and RedLaser will compare prices in local shops and online retailers.

You can also use the app to check stock levels and reserve items you’d like to buy.

Free

Available on iPhone, Windows Phone and Android

2. Nosey Parker

With this app, iPhone users can search for the cheapest and safest parking spaces near their current location.

Nosey Parker could be especially useful for anyone who frequently drives in busy city centres or visits areas they’re not familiar with.

£2.99

Available on iPhone

3. Vouchercloud

By using GPS technology, Vouchercloud pinpoints the vouchers and offers nearest you. Once you have found a deal, the voucher will be delivered to your mobile.

After you have downloaded the voucher, you can either use it immediately or save it for the future.

Free

Available on iPhone, Windows Phone, Android and BlackBerry

4. Wine Search

If you enjoy the occasional glass of vino, you probably know that this particular indulgence can be pretty pricey.

With this app, you can compare prices in various shops and also on restaurant wine lists.

In another interesting feature, you can also see the mark-up that the restaurant charges – which could be pretty infuriating for a frugally minded oenophile.

£1.49

Available on iPhone

5. CashPointer

Not being able to find a cashpoint can be infuriating and being charged to withdraw your own money can be even more annoying.

CashPointer allows you to search for the nearest ATMs in your area and even specify if you’re looking for a machine that doesn’t charge.

Free

Available on iPhone

6. UK Salary Calculator

If you’ve accepted a new job, had a promotion or a rise, this app gives you an overview of your new financial position.

It will break your salary down into an hourly, daily and monthly wage and also takes into account factors such as National Insurance contributions, student loan deductions and pension contributions.

Free

Available on iPhone

7. Onavo

If you would get more benefit from your phone’s data allowance, Onavo’s makers claim this app could extend your usage by up to five times.

The app routes all your internet usage through its own servers, compresses the data and send it back to your phone.

Free

Available on iPhone and Android

8. British Gas meter readings

If your energy bill is based on estimated usage figures, there’s a strong chance you’re either over- or underpaying on your bills.

However, British Gas customers can submit their own, actual readings using the company’s app, which will help ensure their bills are accurate.

Free

Available on iPhone and Android

If you’re with another energy provider, it could be worth checking whether your supplier offers a similar service for smartphones.

Remember, these are just a sample of our favourite money-saving apps and there are countless others out there.

For more articles like this, see Beat bank charges with your phone, Six top money-saving websites and Three ways to make money online.

**This material is for information purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. We strongly encourage our readers not to rely solely on this content, but to seek independent advice when making financial decisions.**

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