Yep, we've entered the TikTok phase of isolation pastimes.

There’s no denying the past month has been a strange experience for all of us. So strange, in fact, that some of us at Chip got really into Tik Tok over the last few weeks. I’m not going to point any fingers… because I’d be pointing at myself.

You only need to spend a mere 10 minutes on the app to get an eyeful of ‘woahs’, dance routines and topless torsos, but once you dig deeper and scroll further, you’ll be rewarded with a treasure trove of tips and tricks. 

From getting your makeup to look flawless (primer, powder and setting spray before makeup, in case you’re wondering) to money tips -  there’s a hack, a trick and a tip for everything. 

Never fear, you won’t have to scroll through hours of content just to get to the creme de la creme of money tips because we took one for the team and did it for you. So, without further ado, here are our picks. 

Get the timing right

First up, here’s a trick for getting the best price on clothing depending on the time of the year. No, it’s not about seasonal sales - it’s about being strategic. It does mean that you’ll have to bid adieu to spur of the moment “treat yourself” ASOS visits, but you will end up saving money and we’re all about that! 

So, consider when brands are likely to lower prices on their items - for example, January is the time to buy suits, whereas there’s no time like June to stock up on fitness clothing and athleisure items. 

Avoid pre-packaged groceries

Here’s a hack for when you next venture out into the outside world to replenish your supplies. See, we made a food shop sound like an adventure to Mordor! Next time you find yourself in the fruit and veg aisle, opt for loose produce as opposed to the pre-packaged stuff and save yourself some money. How do you like them apples, eh?

Revive the childhood chore system

Pay yourself for doing the chores or tasks you really don’t want to do. Dreading your wardrobe clearout? Pay yourself to do it! Haven’t cleaned your oven in over a year? Give yourself a financial incentive! We would also add that instead of saving notes and coins, make your life easier by making a manual save into your Chip account and - voila! - you’re even closer to reaching your goal!

Ditch the pink tax.

If you usually buy skincare and beauty products such as razors, deodorants, shampoos and more from the section of the shop aimed at women, then consider going for the men’s range instead. We have plenty more to say about that, but we’ll leave that rant for another time.

Aaaaaaand this ones's just for fun

And lastly, here’s one purely for your entertainment. Probably best not to try this at home though. 

If you’re still hungry for more hacks and challenges, then feast your eyes on the blog post about tricking yourself to save more with five challenges. And do give us a shout if you have any other tips or Tik Tok tricks to add to the list!

Also, if someone could teach me to do ‘the woah’ properly, that would also be much appreciated.