Homemade 'fakeaways' and multiple side-gigs: How to hack the cost-of-living crisis.

The cost-of-living crisis is quite literally crippling the nation. 

And with the soaring grocery costs, energy prices and exorbitant mortgage repayments, it's no surprise that most of us are counting every cent twice. 

Despite the gloom, there are still plenty of ways to cut expenses and boost the bank balance. 

Watch: 4 money hacks that don't cut out your daily cup of coffee! Post continues after video. 

So we reached out to our wider Mamamia community to ask them about how they're cutting down as life gets more expensive. 

Here's what 11 people told us. 

Nerilee: I reduced my grocery bill during COVID lockdowns by shopping online. Woolies has a program where you pay about $50 a year for 10 per cent off monthly shops and double the points. So now I do one massive shop each fortnight for 10 per cent off and a smaller shop later in the month. We freeze meat, buy in bulk, opt for the cheaper brands — these are all the things we did 15 years ago last time inflation was out of control. 

Fiona: We have dropped all TV and paid podcast subscriptions.

Danielle: We have a local food bank that is helping plenty of people. If you have one locally, that could help — and remember that you’re definitely not alone.

Yasmin: I turn off my power at the switchboard while I'm at work to save on electricity costs. I also changed my mobile and internet suppliers to get a cheaper deal.

Katie: I don't buy new clothes, shoes or makeup for myself anymore. I also don't get my hair done. I just dye it myself at home occasionally. The kids get a lot less clothes and make do with what they have. I cook all meals and snacks for lunchboxes and we rarely get a takeaway or go out for meals. We don't really do any activities that cost money but we live near the beach so generally that's where we are most weekends anyway, plus the kids play sports (and we won't cut that expense!).

Carol: I work full-time and am currently in the process of starting casual weekend work… Am I excited? No. But I've got to do something… I’ve already cut several expenses.