I have found, during my time as a frugal SAHM of 4, plus as an international homestay parent, that I need to be on the ball when it comes to grocery shopping.

By following these rules on auto pilot I don’t need to add extra thinking to my busy, sensory overloaded weeks, plus I know that I am always getting a good deal and I can feel good about that.

The money I receive as a host parent isn’t a wage, it is classed as an allowance, which means it is completely tax free, and does not need to be declared as taxable income to the tax man at all.