The basic rule of budgeting is to save, save, save. Cut back where you can and look for bargains. But, sometimes, you can save money by spending more. Here are few areas to avoid being penny wise and pound foolish.

Preventative Health Spending money on preventative health measures will always provide a return on investment. Whether it is a regular examination, teeth cleaning or a recommended screening test, don’t skimp. After all, a $100 dental exam every six months can save you $400 in fillings and painful cavities as well as $2,000 in root canals.

Renter’s Insurance At a few hundred dollars a year for renter’s insurance, you will be glad you have it. Whether it is theft, fire or flood, don’t risk the contents of your apartment over a relatively small premium. Many policies also cover your personal goods in other locations, too. So, if your car is broken into and your cell phone is stolen, it is likely to be covered under your renter’s policy.

Car Maintenance It’s so easy to stretch on your car’s maintenance because the cost can really add up. Don’t do it. Maintaining your car will pay you back in spades. Even a simple oil change can save you thousands in engine repairs due to sludge build up and engine friction. Be proactive and avoid these costly mistakes.

Car Insurance Speaking of cars, don’t forgo car insurance. First, you are required to have at least a basic level of car insurance. So, right there, getting pulled over without it will get you an expensive ticket. Second, it’s required for a reason. With an average of 6 million car accidents a year and accidents costing each American an average of $1,051 a year, it is well worth the premium.

Make sure you shop around, though, and really understand what your policy covers. Compare deductibles, coverage and caps. Determine what bells and whistles you can and can’t live without. For example, do you need rental car coverage or not? Many insurance companies are now offering a ‘name your price’ option. Just keep in mind that you get what you pay for.

Buy in Bulk. Stocking up on staples you use daily while they are on sale can save you hundreds of dollars. Also, memberships to certain warehouse stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club can triple your savings on every day products and special purchases. Just one trip to one of these places could pay for the membership fee in savings.

After all, saving money isn’t always about saving money. Sometimes, you need to spend to save (though not necessarily on those cute sandals on sale).