So many people vow to watch their spending as their New Year’s resolution.
But how many think about how they’ll do it, specifically?
Make your 2026 resolution to be more frugal a reality with these 15 habits.
Stay Aware of Hidden Fees
Modern luxury is swarming with fees hiding in plain sight. Ongoing or one-time fees from apps or streaming services could hemorrhage your funds, so keep an eye on them!
Grocery Shop More, Eat Out Less
Busyness be damned: if you want to save more money this year, start at the grocery store. Yes, grocery prices are rising, but it’s still cheaper than going by a mile.
Take the Bus
If you live somewhere with good public transit, take advantage of it. Or you can take a bike or walk if it’s nice enough out — whatever you do, avoid shelling out too much for gas or rideshares.
Create a Realistic Budget
The more realistic you are about your expenses, the easier it will be to adhere to your budget. Be honest about your current spending habits, where you want them to be, and how you’ll bridge the gap between them.
Find Free Fun
There are so many exciting things you can experience right now that won’t cost you a thing. Everything from your local park to the local library has something to offer that could kill an afternoon for next to nothing.
Plan Ahead
How many times have you accidentally bought $5 water because you forgot your bottle at home? No more: plan to prepare to go out into the world daily to avoid unnecessary purchases.
Reuse on Repeat
So you caved and ordered some take-out as a treat for all that grocery shopping. Well, pat yourself on the back because you’ll hang on to those containers and use them for future leftovers.
Get Community Freebies
People are often so desperate to get rid of things that they’ll make a post on Facebook Marketplace or another forum and give it to someone for free. And that person can be you!
Take Shorter Showers
You could apply this to everything from leaving your lights on to turning the heat up too high, but paying attention to how much you use your utilities could help you realize you should start saving.
Meal Plan
This goes with the “plan ahead” school of thought, but meal planning can save you a lot of money and the hassle of wondering what’s for lunch. It can be time-consuming, but cooking your meals ahead of time is a phenomenal way to save money.
Shop During Sales
Have your eye on something expensive? Practice patience, sign up for the newsletter, and wait for it to go on sale.
Buy Second Hand or Refurbished
Give that perfectly acceptable desk chair a new home at a fraction of what you’d pay for it in stores!
Practice Mindful Shopping
If you’re an impulsive spender, then this one’s for you. Don’t visit stores with a plan and a purpose. And while you’re there, remember your objective and don’t stray from it.
Join Loyalty Programs
Loyalty rewards for places you love going to can be a great way to curb spending. If you know there’s no way you can’t survive without your latte from the place down the street, then at least say yes to the punch card and get a free one a few times a month.
Clip Coupons
Clipping coupons is much simpler than it used to be, so put away the scissors! Stores and other companies that aggregate online deals often have apps that let you easily download or “clip” coupons.
Read More:
- 30 Ways To Get Free Stuff (That Aren’t Scams)
- 13 Best Coupon Apps To Help You Save Money
- 13 Ways To Earn Money From Paid Surveys
