Money Matters Team
Welcome to Money Matters, the Sainsbury's Bank blog.
About Us
The Money Matters team is made up of a group of bloggers who specialise in the financial sector. With help from our guest bloggers, we hope that Money Matters offers a hub of relevant information that's valuable to you and that you will want to keep and share with friends.
Our content may include tips and information, yet any financial decisions are yours to make and none of our content will include financial or any other professional advice.
If we think that another website or section of the Sainsbury's Bank site can provide you with extra information we will point it out to you in the interests of your information only.
Guest Bloggers
If you'd like more information about guest blogging you can visit ourblogger network section. You can also find us at blogging events and activities so if you do see us come and say hi, we would love to meet you.
Enjoy the blog.
Best wishes
The Money Matters Team
Money Matters Team's Posts
14/08/2017
The hidden costs of cheap holidays
Just don’t let what should be a blissfully relaxing break become a financial nightmare.
14/08/2017
How to build your own dream home
The dream of owning a beautiful, bespoke home might seem like a speck on a distant landscape. But what if you could build it yourself?
14/08/2017
Saving for a mortgage in your 30s?
Here are the struggles you might be familiar with - and the tips, hints and hacks that might make the journey slightly smoother.
14/08/2017
The smartphone apps you need to make your home smart
The future is happening right now. The smart home is here, and our appliances are becoming cleverer than we are
29/06/2017
Where you should holiday, based on your pet's popularity
Planning a getaway with your pooch? The UK is filled with amazing places to stay - here's our pick of the best.
29/06/2017
Here’s where you should live in the UK, according to your favourite pet
Wonder what your favourite pet is telling you about where you should live in the UK? We were too. So we did the hard work for you.
22/06/2017
The Insta-famous pets to follow now
These Insta-famous pets are at the top of their social game and we could probably all learn a thing or two from them.
11/05/2017
7 Travel Insurance Myths Busted
Let’s be honest: travel insurance is the last thing on your mind when you’re booking a dream holiday.
20/04/2017
7 plants that pay their way
These are the best things to plant to save you pots of money.
20/04/2017
6 old-school skills that could make you money
Love a bit of woodwork or got seriously green fingers? Here’s how to make some money from your traditional hobby.
20/02/2017
Spring family fun on a budget
Get out and about this spring for free - or very little - with these fab ideas for family days out
20/02/2017
5 Ways to Spring into Action
Longer days and better weather mean it's time to emerge from hibernation - try these tips for getting active and embrace the joys of spring.
20/02/2017
7 travel hotspots to visit right now
As if you needed a reason to pack your bags, here’s a little more inspiration - our pick of the best destinations to visit in 2017
12/01/2017
#TakeFive
#TakeFive to stop fraud with these important tips. Don’t get caught out and stay in control.
11/01/2017
3 Tips to Boost Your Credit Score
Looking to boost your credit score? We’re here to help with these three simple tips.
24/12/2016
Credit Card Jargon
Know your APR from your Section 75? We put members of the public to the test and broke down all that jargon.
23/12/2016
6 Tips for Planning Your Best Ever Holiday
The best way to banish winter blues? Book a holiday! Here are our top tips to getting the best deal and being prepared before you jet off.
23/12/2016
5 Credit Card Myths Busted
Don’t believe the hype! Credit cards can not only help you manage your spending, but actually help improve your credit score.
23/12/2016
7 Happy Home Hacks to go from Festive to Fab
Bring some post-festive cheer to your home with these decorating hacks and go from gloomy to gorgeous.
16/12/2016
Beat trainflation: how to save on season tickets
Saving money feels good. Saving it on essentials like train travel feels even better.
28/10/2016
8 Money Saving Tricks for Halloween
From decorations and fancy dress to food and party games, you can have a great Halloween without the scary price tag.
12/10/2016
13 Steps to a Stress-Free Family Holiday
We all love a family trip abroad… but sometimes the stress of organising that fortnight away can threaten to cancel out the enjoyment of the holiday itself. Stress no longer! We’ve got the tips to make sure you can do what you are there for: relaxing.
12/10/2016
Roadtrip Essentials
Sat Nav? Check. Travel charger? Check. Make sure you are prepared with these essentials.
05/10/2016
How to plan the perfect staycation
Leave the passports behind, avoid the horror of busy airports and pack up the family for a staycation to remember.
22/09/2016
6 Car Insurance Myths You Should Never Believe
Buying a car is expensive enough, so make sure you don’t get stung on the insurance too.
22/09/2016
Financial Mistakes You Can Help Your Uni Kids Avoid
University isn’t just about hitting the books - or the bars, for that matter.
22/09/2016
Make the Most of Your New Spare Room
Hurrah! The kids have finally flown the nest. Make the most of their old room and create something just for you.
25/08/2016
Back to school saving tips
Packing them off back to school needn’t cost you an arm and a leg if you shop sensibly.
30/06/2016
Get a super fancy home look for half the price
So you've just moved in together. Here's 8 smart solutions to make it look beautiful on a budget. Don't worry, we won't tell if you won't...
30/06/2016
Make your garden glow... on a budget
Remember that neglected, overgrown patch of dirt outside your back door? Oh, yeah, the garden.
30/06/2016
How to get the best deals on your holidays this year
So you've mastered how to post the perfect #TravelEnvy pics, but do you know all the ways to save money on your next holiday getaway?
30/06/2016
7 ways to maximise the space in your house
We've found some of the quickest and easiest ways to transform your home without breaking the budget.
30/06/2016
What's your cash personality?
Spender, saver, splurger or something in between? Here's how to identify what your money mind looks like and how it can help you save.
30/06/2016
Get a super fancy home look for half the price
So you've just moved in together. Here's 8 smart solutions to make it look beautiful on a budget. Don't worry, we won't tell if you won't...
30/06/2016
What's your cash personality?
Spender, saver, splurger or something in between? Here's how to identify what your money mind looks like and how it can help you save.
30/06/2016
Make your garden glow... on a budget
Remember that neglected, overgrown patch of dirt outside your back door? Oh, yeah, the garden.
30/06/2016
7 ways to maximise the space in your house
We've found some of the quickest and easiest ways to transform your home without breaking the budget.
30/06/2016
How to get the best deals on your holidays this year
So you've mastered how to post the perfect #TravelEnvy pics, but do you know all the ways to save money on your next holiday getaway?
29/04/2016
DIY home makeover... the bloggers' way
The thrifty bloggers' and editors' guide to doing up your home and garden on a budget.
29/04/2016
Paper v digital
Are you a Kindle connoisseur or partial to a paperback? We've found the best ways to get some quality reading material this summer.
29/04/2016
The heat is on
We might love it when the sun's shining but spare a thought for your pets, who may not like it quite so hot.
29/04/2016
What's your cash personality?
Spender, saver, splurger or something in between? Here's how to identify what your money mind looks like and how it can help you save.
22/04/2016
Understanding your cat
Do you know what your cat is trying to tell you? Is it feeling playful, loving, or just showing off? Have a look at our animated guide to find out.
22/04/2016
Flying with children
If you're going on holiday with children this year, have you thought about how to keep them happy and entertained on the journey?
21/04/2016
A visual guide to pet microchipping
Did you know that dog microchipping is now compulsory in the UK? Our guide covers how it works and why it's a good idea to microchip other pets too.
22/03/2016
5 ways to prevent costly vet trips
We've teamed up with vet Claire Hamilton who shares her top tips for a healthy pet and happy wallet... let's face it; we dislike unnecessary vet trips as much as our dogs do!
16/03/2016
How to slash the cost of being a wedding guest
The average guest spends £448 attending a wedding, with an extra £150 if they go to the hen or stag do. We share some budget ways to save on wedding gifts, outfits and travel (without offending the bride!)
16/03/2016
The best high-tech pet gadgets
Tech-guru and cat fanatic Linsey Fryatt takes a cat's (and dog's) eye view of the latest gadgets no self-respecting owner should be without.
16/03/2016
Surprising ways to valet your car
Clever car-cleaning solutions from the web's biggest petrol heads and life hackers.
16/03/2016
Spring family fun that won't break the bank
Secret shopping guru Penny Golightly's five fab ways to have family fun without spending a fortune this spring
16/03/2016
Secret money tips from mother to daughter
Writer Cherry Casey finds out if mum's really the word when it comes to managing the family finances.
16/03/2016
How to really save money with vouchers
Savvy shoppers can save hundreds of pounds each year. Undercover bargain hunter Penny Golightly goes... er... undercover, to find out how.
16/03/2016
How to haggle on Britain's high street
Turns out it's not just over half of us that are willing to haggle... the high street can be open to offers too! Get the lowdown to start saving.
10/03/2016
Don't move, improve: a home renovations calculator
From freshening up your bathroom to making the most of your loft space - use our calculator to find out how you can refresh your home and keep within budget.
10/03/2016
New Destination Finder
Need some inspiration on where to head for your holiday this year?
21/01/2016
Top tips for spring-cleaning your finances
From cutting out coffee to getting your workout for free, we asked the bloggers in the know for their tips on getting your finances in order..
21/01/2016
The best money-saving apps
Looking for a way to take control of your finances? Take the hi-tech route and furnish your phone with a few clever apps that will help you save money.
21/01/2016
Grow your own herbs
When it comes to herbs, fresh is best and free is even better. We asked the gardening experts at fennelandfern.co.uk for their top tips.
16/12/2015
Dog behaviours explained
In order to really understand what your dog is trying to tell you, it's important to observe their body language and listen to the noises they make.
16/12/2015
Real people who made extra money in their spare time
If you've already sold all your unwanted bits at car boot sales, it might be time to think outside the (money) box.
23/11/2015
Visual guide to keeping your money safe abroad
Planning a holiday? Our visual guide to keeping your money and valuables safe abroad can help you prepare, for extra peace of mind.
19/11/2015
How to win at the online shopping game
Ditch the frenzied crowds and buy your gifts online this Christmas.
19/11/2015
5 tips for surviving long journeys
Planning a long trip? Here's how to get the most from your journey.
09/11/2015
The perfect winter emergency car kit
With winter on its way, you need to be prepared when out driving. Candace Gerlach from Green Flag breakdown gives her essentials to pack in your car to see you through any emergency this winter.
29/10/2015
We need to talk about... gifting
Looking for creative, unusual but not-too-pricy Christmas present ideas? Look no further! We talked to four seasonal super-savers tell us how they cut costs without cutting the fun at this expensive time of year.
29/10/2015
Choosing the right kennel for your pet
How do you prepare your cat or dog for their visit to the kennels (or, as we like to say, pet hotel!) over the festive season?
29/10/2015
5 ways to keep your pet calm this Christmas
Tis the season... to say 'So long, stress' and 'Hello happy pets'
19/10/2015
Save money by going abroad for Christmas
Last Christmas Johanna Payton travelled to Tenerife with her husband Matthew Swan and son Eliott, and discovered it was both a cost-effective move and fun for the whole family.
05/08/2015
Visual guide to car maintenance basics
Unsure of how to keep your car legal and in good condition? Our car maintenance guide covers the basics, like checking the battery and tyre pressure.
20/07/2015
Visual guide to buying a new car
In the market for a new car? Our buying a new car guide looks at electric and hybrid options, how to research and find the right car for you.
20/07/2015
Visual guide to buying a used car
Thinking of purchasing a used car? Our guide to buying a used car provides information on what to consider, where to buy and test driving tips.
08/07/2015
Family holiday destination awards prize draw
The prize draw is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered.
05/05/2015
How to take the perfect selfie
How do you get a perfect picture when you have to take it and be in it? Follow our guide...
23/04/2015
Your chance to win a Norwegian log cabin break for four
The prize draw is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered.
02/04/2015
Visual Guide to Home Security
Interested in making your home safer and more secure? Our home security guide shows you the simple steps you can take to help deter intruders.
13/02/2015
Wedding Spending 2014 Revealed
Ever wondered how much the average couple spent on their wedding in 2014? Read our guide to find out what their top 10 expenses were, and more.
29/01/2015
Buying and selling a home
Whether you’re viewing a home to buy, or preparing your current home for sale, knowing what to look out for could save you time and money.
23/12/2014
Snowsports in Scotland
Besides stunning views of snow-covered peaks, glens and lochs, Scotland's five ski centres offer the best pistes in the UK.
23/12/2014
Snowsports in Scotland visual guide
Scotland’s five ski resorts offer breathtaking scenery and challenging pistes for all skill levels. Planning on visiting? Check out our infographic.
10/11/2014
Guide to shopping safely online
Shopping online can be fun and convenient but are you doing all you can to keep yourself and your family safe on the internet?
07/11/2014
UK city breaks
There are so many great cities to visit in the UK. Our guide looks at the most popular destinations and what to do when you get there.
04/11/2014
Budget Calculator
Find out how much you could save every month with our Savings Calculator
22/10/2014
Children's money saving chart
Use our money-saving dragon to encourage your child to start saving.
19/10/2014
Winter learning
Why wait till Janury to pick up a new hobby or pastime? Here are some ideas.
15/10/2014
The Perfect Night In - Prize Draw
Your chance to win the ultimate perfect night in package with a 40" HDTV, £250 of Sainsbury's vouchers and a top 10 DVD selection.
09/10/2014
Guide to credit scores
What makes up your credit score? What can impact on your credit score? We've answered the above and more in our guide to credit scores.
08/10/2014
Cat behaviours explained
Ever wondered what your cat's body language says? Our feline companions use a wide range of physical signals to convey their feelings and intentions.
22/09/2014
Holiday spending habits - your chance to win one of over fifty available foreign currencies worth £500
This prize draw is now closed, thank you for your entries. We will be announcing the winner on 24th September 2014.
02/09/2014
History of credit cards
When did the world start using plastic instead of cash? Have a look at how credit and credit cards have developed over the years.
15/08/2014
Build a bottle bird feeder
Building a bird feeder can be quick and easy when you know how. Follow our simple step-by-step guide.
13/08/2014
A dog-friendly home
Did you know that some household items like certain plants and foods are toxic to dogs? We have put together tips on keeping your dog safe at home.
31/07/2014
How to welcome more wildlife into your garden
Aileen Scoular offers some suggestions on how to make your garden more appealing to wildlife.
31/07/2014
Hot picks for summer day trips
Patricia Carswell shares 10 fantastic summer day trip ideas.
31/07/2014
Top cat-friendly holiday accommodation in the UK
A few of our favourite options for cat friendly accommodation in the UK.
30/07/2014
Revamping old furniture for next to nothing
Sophie Banda gives her tips for how to brighten up old pieces of furniture.
02/07/2014
Credit Card 101
Did you know that more than half of the UK has a credit card? Discover a variety of facts about credit cards, their history, and how they are made.
18/06/2014
Car Buying Infographic
Check out the UK car buying trends over the last decade including favourite make, model and colour. We have also compared fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
04/06/2014
Dog Exercise Tips
Looking for fun and unusual ways to exercise your four-legged friend? Take a look at this infographic for intriguing dog exercise tips.
29/04/2014
Garden improvements worth making
Outdoor overhauls can be costly affairs, but a few inexpensive tweaks are sometimes all that are needed for a perfectly good-looking garden.
25/04/2014
2014's top holiday spots
Fancy heading somewhere new this year? We asked top travel experts to share their destination hit list for 2014.
23/04/2014
Tracking down a trustworthy tradesman
Looking to carry out home improvements and don't know who to turn to? Check out these tips to help you find a trustworthy tradesman.
04/04/2014
Guide to proposals
Find the secrets behind picking the perfect ring and planning the dream proposal.
04/03/2014
UK flight disruption
Whether it's a natural disaster or a technical issue on the runway, flight disruptions are sometimes unavoidable. But just how widespread are flight disruptions, and what are the causes?
05/02/2014
Tips for first time car buyers
With so many factors to consider, buying a new car for the first time can be a daunting experience. However, it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips that could help you find the right car at the right price.
23/01/2014
Affordable travel destinations in 2014
A look at some of 2014's best value holiday destinations.
20/01/2014
DIY energy audit: a five-step checklist
Follow these simple steps to ensure your energy use is kept in check.
20/01/2014
5 small changes that could bring big savings
Making tiny changes in different areas of your life soon add up. Here are five simple ways to spend less and save more.
20/01/2014
Money matters test page title
Making tiny changes in different areas of your life soon add up. Here are five simple ways to spend less and save more.
18/12/2013
Creating your own Christmas decorations
Creating homemade Christmas decorations and ornaments is not only a great way to save money, but also an excellent chance to get the kids involved in preparing for the festive season.
16/12/2013
Skiing around the World
Like the millions of other snow fanatics, you might be considering hitting the slopes over the coming months.
13/12/2013
Make your own bird house key hooks
You may have seen the image of the hand-made bird house key hooks being used across our website and in our home insurance leaflets in-store.
09/12/2013
Top helmet covers for the ski season
The winter sports season has begun and many of us will take to the slopes with skis, snowboards and sledges, and try to out-do each other with the best winter hat.
29/11/2013
Getting your home ready for winter
With the nights drawing in and temperatures dipping, here are some tips on how to prepare your home for the winter months.
27/11/2013
4 tips to getting the best interest rate on your loan
What can you do to ensure you get the best rate?
25/11/2013
History of the Pound
The British Pound is the oldest currency in use today. Originally forged from pure silver, it has a fascinating history but is it still as valuable?
14/11/2013
Adding festive spirit to your finances
Tis the season to be jolly. But how happy are you about your finances?
11/11/2013
Where are Brits headed on holiday?
Brits love to travel, from simple European camping trips to embarking on life-changing religious pilgrimages.
06/11/2013
Making your home environmentally friendly
Six practical tips to not only make your home kinder to the environment, but to also make it more energy efficient.
28/10/2013
Staying safe on bonfire night
Bonfire Night brings together millions of people across the UK in this time-honoured annual tradition, but make sure you remember it for the right reasons.
25/10/2013
5 great ways to refresh your home on a budget
Sale prices on all sorts of desirable elements for your interiors can be found year-round if you hunt around in the right places.
24/10/2013
January sales jaunts
British shops set the bar high (or rather, cut-price low) when it comes to post-Christmas sales. But this tradition is not confined to the UK.
29/08/2013
The road to fuel efficiency
Motorists around the country are looking to reduce their fuel consumption and save some money.
21/08/2013
18 then and now
How much was a pint of milk when you were 18? See how much basic living costs have changed since you were a student, with our interactive calculator.
20/08/2013
Student friendly recipes
Want to make sure your son or daughter is eating well at university? Here are five simple recipes to share with them.
20/08/2013
Five ways to keep utility bills down with clever technology
If sending your son or daughter to university means you’re feeling the pinch, try these tips to keep your energy and phone bills down.
19/08/2013
How to survive the first month at university: a guide for parents and students
Some handy tips for students entering into their first year at university, and their parents.
15/08/2013
Famous private registration plates
We may dye our hair, customise our clothing and like to sport a suntan; so what's different about stamping our identity on our trusty set of wheels?
11/07/2013
Five top satnav apps for navigating around Europe
If you are planning a trip around Europe, find out which satnav apps perform the best.
28/06/2013
Crafty family blog reviews
Here are some great crafty blogs we've enjoyed reading this year:
27/06/2013
Get your garden ready for summer
Get ready for summer with some great ideas on seating, lighting and tepees.
26/06/2013
Will you marry me? Abroad?
18% of weddings now take place overseas but, is it less expensive?
11/06/2013
Can I save money with solar panels?
We take a closer look at the possibility of saving with solar panels.
10/06/2013
How a cashback credit card works
If you're searching the market for a cashback credit card you might be asking yourself some of the following questions...
06/06/2013
Six tips for finding the right car for you
It can fill us with temptation and trepidation. Andy Moore looks at some top tips for buying a car.
03/06/2013
Top podcasts for learning Spanish
There are many ways to learn a foreign tongue and listening to a podcast is a great one.
29/05/2013
2013 Family blog reviews
Here are some great family blogs we've enjoyed reading this year:
20/05/2013
When should you do it yourself?
Ever tried to tile or fix the plumbing? Sometimes you can roll up your sleeves and sometimes you should just put your feet up.
19/04/2013
Converting your car to liquid petroleum gas (LPG)
Andy Moore takes a look at the ups and downs of LPG fuel.
18/04/2013
Driven to distraction
Seasoned driving instructors share some of the UK's worst driving habits.
09/04/2013
Common pet insurance claims
We take a look at the most common reasons for pet insurance claims.
27/03/2013
What's the bunny got to do with Easter?
We explore the connection between bunnies and Easter.
21/03/2013
Taxi of Mum and Dad cost calculator
Have you ever wondered how much time you spend being your kids very own taxi service?
05/03/2013
Red Nose Day Fundraising Ideas
Here are some ideas on how you can 'do something funny for money' on Red Nose Day.
19/02/2013
Workout from home
Cannot quite bring yourself to step out in the cold and get to the gym?
10/01/2013
Cool car gadgets
We take a look at some of the original in-car inventions that delighted road users of yesteryear.
30/11/2012
Christmas markets
As cities across Europe turn on the lights, visiting Christmas markets can be a great way to take a break.
29/11/2012
Money saving tips: family activities for winter
With the winter nights approaching we share some money saving ideas to entertain the whole family when Jack Frost bites.
29/11/2012
Winter gardens
We've put together five winter gardening tips and some winter garden pictures to inspire you.
28/11/2012
What to do if your car breaks down
This guide sets out the steps you should take to be safe in the event of a breakdown.
27/11/2012
Money saving tips: festive family activities
We've created a list of money saving ideas for festive family fun.
25/11/2012
Weigh it up
It’s vital to ensure pets are healthy - and not breaking the scales, says Money Matters contributor Robert Nurden...
23/11/2012
Saving with children
"You must have all the money in the world, Dad. Look at me, I've got 5p, I'm rich."
23/11/2012
Develop the savings habit of a lifetime
If you're more of a natural spender, working out where to start saving can be difficult. But it's surprising how easy it can be to see your money grow by saving little and often. Here are 3 simple tips that can help you kick-start a savings habit for life.
23/11/2012
Winter retreats
As the cold months set in, getting away for a short break can be just what you need.
20/11/2012
Planning for a new dog
Next to a new child, there are few things in life that challenge and reward us than a new dog.
09/11/2012
A guide to greener driving
Soaring petrol prices, global warming and damage to the environment are all forcing motorists to reassess their motoring habits...
28/08/2012
Going for green
Should you switch to an energy-efficient car? Mark Rowe considers the options...
28/08/2012
Room to grow
There are lots of reasons to move house but Money Matters contributor Kate Burt explains why improving your current home can be the perfect solution...
12/06/2012
Cheap insurance cars
Research by Sainsbury's Bank Car Insurance last year revealed that, within the space of one year, some 1.3 million motorists quit driving altogether due to the rising costs of motoring.
Popular posts
30/06/2016
7 ways to maximise the space in your house
We've found some of the quickest and easiest ways to transform your home without breaking the budget.
30/06/2016
Get a super fancy home look for half the price
So you've just moved in together. Here's 8 smart solutions to make it look beautiful on a budget. Don't worry, we won't tell if you won't...
30/06/2016
How to get the best deals on your holidays this year
So you've mastered how to post the perfect #TravelEnvy pics, but do you know all the ways to save money on your next holiday getaway?
Latest posts
14/08/2017
The hidden costs of cheap holidays
Just don’t let what should be a blissfully relaxing break become a financial nightmare.
14/08/2017
How to build your own dream home
The dream of owning a beautiful, bespoke home might seem like a speck on a distant landscape. But what if you could build it yourself?
14/08/2017
Saving for a mortgage in your 30s?
Here are the struggles you might be familiar with - and the tips, hints and hacks that might make the journey slightly smoother.
