Quit Smoking And Save A Fortune

As most smokers know, smoking cigarettes can be an incredibly expensive habit. However, the urge and addiction to smoking can override a person’s motivation to save money. nnThere are many costs associated with smoking, some are obvious such as the cost of the individual packs or cartons of cigarettes, other costs are hidden, but can still place a drain on your bank account. nnThe average price of a pack of cigarettes is $4.49. If you smoke just one pack a day, that would cost you $134.70 a month and $1616.40 for an entire year. If you smoke more then one pack a day, then obviously your costs will be higher. nnBesides the costs of cigarettes, individuals that smoke have to pay for travel to and from purchasing their cigarettes. With the high costs of gas, this can add up pretty quickly. Smokers must also pay for smoking accessories, such as matches or lighters. nnImpulse purchases also cost smokers money, although this isn’t widely recognized or reported. Often times, when smokers go and buy cigarettes, they pick up snacks and drinks while at the store. Five dollars here and there can add up to a lot of money over time.nnThe treatment of smoke related illness can also make smoking more expensive. Individuals that smoke have higher incidences of cancer, asthma and emphysema. The cost of medications, trips to the doctor’s office and to the hospital can quickly become prohibitive. nnQuitting smoking, while extremely beneficial to your health, can also save you a ton of money. The high taxes tacked on to cigarettes make them quite expensive. This “sin” tax shows no signs of slowing down. It is an easy way for local governments to raise money, because the majority of people have no problem penalizing smokers. Besides the actual costs of cigarettes themselves, impulse purchases and the costs associated with smoking related ailments, makes smoking very expensive. Kicking this harmful habit, allows you to get healthier and to save the money that you would normally use for smoking for a better life and future. nnThere are some very effective methods to help you stop smoking. However, the first and the most important step is for you to be sick and tired enough of smoking that you are ready to do whatever it takes to quit. Money can be a good motivator. Once you have decided to quit, consider nicotine patches, zyban or joining a support group. Your doctor can also be a very good resource to helping you get on the path to living smoke free.