Hubby is due to retire in June next year

[BAKERS DOZEN]

So we decided that while we are both working we would try to live for the next 12 months on what would be our pension money next year - just to see if we can manage. Any excess money from our salaries would go into the savings pot for our retirement. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

[ubasses]

Once you are not restricted to going on holiday when you have leave from work, you can save oodles by booking last minute and just being able to pack and go.

[BAKERS DOZEN]

Boxtops - thanks for that. We decided that we would only use the car once a month for shopping for bulk/heavy items and then free bus passes in between to stock up on fresh goods. Already on free prescriptions. Believe you can get cheaper car insurance if you limit your mileage so will check that one out. He's just paid for his season ticket for his rugby club for the next five years as they had a special offer on. When I asked him to check if I could get a refund if anything happened to him he returned with the answer "No, but you can take over the seat". Can't see that happening.

[askyourgran]

It's a bit of a shock getting used to managing on your pensions. We had some insurances and savings to fall back on in emergencies and luckily had already paid the mortgage off. The Christmas bonus and heating allowance was a godsend too. We now have free bus travel cards and a cheap rate on the train. I shop around for cheaper items such as toilet rolls,washing powder and fabric conditioner (Aldi/ Lidle) I buy a lot of my books at Charity shops,Shop around for buildings/house contents insurance and car insurance.Also broadband provider and mobile phone provider.

[BAKERS DOZEN]

Off to bed now - thanks for all your answers. They were very helpful. I'm actually looking forward to the challenge but I know it's not going to be "real" as we will still be earning, but hopefully it will give us an insight into how it will be in the future.