007: Seven ways to avoid Bond-style blowouts
Secret agent James Bond has killed many enemies and seduced countless women in his 26 film appearances since 1962.
He's also developed some pretty extravagant money habits along the way – and for those of us without his deep pockets or access to the British Secret Service coffers, they could quickly become a 'spectre' looming over our finances.
As the latest 007 blockbuster is released, we look at what we can learn from Bond's blowouts and save a pretty Moneypenny...
1. Gambling
When he's not pursuing the bad guys – and sometimes even when he is - Bond likes nothing more than a spot of gambling, with Baccarat his favourite casino game. Although he's usually quite lucky, gambling with your money can leave you in trouble.
The National Gambling Helpline says 69% of gamblers accessing its services in 2013-14 reported at least some debt.
2. Eating and drinking out - a lot
It's safe to say Bond enjoys the finer things in life - including his infamous 'shaken not stirred' vodka Martinis. Keeping up these habits can prove expensive.
It's tempting to eat out, but making it a treat rather than a regular occurrence can help you put money back in your pocket.
Take a look at our Budget Planner to see where your money goes. You may be surprised!
3. Failing to get his currency in advance
Bond's assignments take him all over the world, and we suspect he doesn't bother getting his currency before he goes.
Our research showed one in ten of us leave our currency exchange to the last minute by changing our pounds at the airport, often for the worst exchange rates possible.
The difference between the best rates if you look in advance and getting money at the departure gate can be as much as 10%. Don't forget to do it!
4. Not talking to his partners about money
Bond has been close to plenty of women over the past 53 years and many of his relationships end quite messily.
Admittedly, if you're a secret agent there are probably more interesting things to talk about than money, but for most of us not talking about money with your partner can be a mistake.
Find it hard to talk money? Here are some easy to follow dos and don'ts
5. Owning (and crashing) a lot of cars
Bond may have a penchant for Aston Martins, but they don't come cheap – especially if you keep destroying them in car chases.
His insurance premiums would undoubtedly be Skyfall high, but there are ways you can reduce yours.
How to get the best deal for your car insurance
6. Overspending on watches, gadgets and clothes
Any suave secret agent needs a sharp suit or two, maybe a fancy watch and gadget collection. But this probably doesn't make financial sense for us mere mortals.
If you have clothes you no longer wear or things you no longer use, why not have a declutter and sell them instead? Disclaimer: This probably wouldn't work with Secret Service gadgets.
7. Not insuring himself
Hopefully your job doesn't involve getting shot at or having fist fights with a man named Jaws, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't insure yourself.
If your children or partner rely on your income to cover the mortgage or other living expenses, it could be worth getting life insurance.
This article is provided by the Money Advice Service.
