20 Classic Frugal Tips That Are Obsolete in 2025

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Frugal living is a mindset, but not all the old advice holds up in today’s world. While tips like “reuse, reduce, recycle,” “clip coupons,” and “buy in bulk” have been staples in the past, they don’t always offer the savings they once did. Let’s take a look at some of the frugal habits that might not be as effective anymore.

Crochet for Cost-Effective Hobbies

Crocheting and knitting used to be go-to hobbies for those looking to save money on clothes. You could make your own scarves, blankets, and even clothing with a bit of yarn and some time. But here’s the reality: buying yarn is surprisingly expensive, and while there are countless tutorials online, unless you’re highly skilled, you may end up with a pile of tangled yarn rather than a masterpiece. So, while it’s a fun hobby, it’s not as cost-effective as it used to be.

Coupons

There was a time when clipping coupons felt like a badge of honor for frugal shoppers. But now, couponing doesn’t seem to offer the same value it once did. Most stores no longer double coupons, and stacking them on a single item is a rarity. Plus, many coupon deals are more about “saving” pennies, like getting 50 cents off five cans of soup. Sometimes, the store brand is just as cheap or cheaper than the discounted brand, making the whole effort feel like a waste of time.

DIY Sewing

Sewing your own clothes used to be a way to save serious money. But these days, fabric prices are high, and quality materials are hard to find without paying a premium. Even if you’re skilled at sewing, you might find that buying new clothes from discount stores is often cheaper than the time and expense of making them yourself. What used to be a frugal hobby is now more of an investment in materials and tools.

Black Friday

The long-standing tradition of waiting for Black Friday sales to score a deal is quickly losing its charm. Thanks to frequent sales throughout the year, the once-anticipated event is less of a game-changer. Additionally, retailers have figured out how to hike up prices just before the event, only to drop them back to normal during the sales, making the savings negligible. Plus, many products on sale are specially made to be lower quality for Black Friday shoppers, which means the deals aren’t even as great as they seem.

Long-Distance Calls

Remember when long-distance calls after 9 p.m. were cheaper? Nowadays, that advice is obsolete. With cell phones and unlimited calling plans, long-distance charges are almost a thing of the past. It’s hard to imagine paying by the minute to call someone, and the concept of a landline is nearly extinct in many households. Today, communication has become instant and essentially free.

The Beater Car

The old advice about buying a cheap beater car for $500 and driving it into the ground doesn’t hold water today. Finding a functional car for that price is nearly impossible, and even if you do find one, the cost of repairs, maintenance, and fuel quickly adds up. Modern cars are packed with features that older, cheaper cars just can’t compete with, and the fuel economy and safety improvements make those old junkers seem like poor financial choices.

Banks

Once upon a time, sticking with the same bank for years would reward you with better rates and customer service. Now, banks are more about profits than people, and loyalty doesn’t seem to matter much. Many people find themselves jumping from bank to bank in search of better deals, as the financial industry focuses more on shareholders than on building relationships with customers.

Dishwashers

Dishwashers used to be seen as the water-saving solution compared to washing by hand. While modern dishwashers are indeed more efficient than older models, they don’t always live up to expectations. In some cases, the amount of water used in a full dishwasher load can exceed that of hand-washing a smaller load, especially when you factor in the time spent pre-rinsing dishes. While dishwashers are convenient, they may not be the water-saver they’re often marketed as.

Thrift Stores

Thrift stores used to be a treasure trove of hidden gems at unbeatable prices. These days, however, many thrift shops are pricing used items at levels that aren’t much lower than buying new. With the rise of online shopping and discount stores like Marshalls and TJ Maxx, new clothes often come at prices comparable to, or even cheaper than, secondhand items from a thrift store. Thrift shopping is still an option for those looking for unique pieces, but it’s not always the money-saver it once was.

Housing

Finding affordable housing has become a nearly impossible task for many. Skyrocketing rent prices and inflated home prices mean that it’s harder than ever to find a good deal. The traditional advice to spend no more than one-third of your income on housing is now out of reach for most people in many cities, and sacrifices in quality of life—such as smaller living spaces or less desirable locations—are often necessary to make rent.

Credit Cards

For years, the advice was to avoid credit cards, but that’s no longer the best strategy. Used responsibly, credit cards can actually offer benefits like cashback, points, and travel rewards. Paying off the balance each month ensures you avoid interest, and using the right card can help you earn rewards that make purchases more affordable in the long run.

Chuck Roast

Chuck roast used to be a staple for budget-conscious families, offering a hearty meal at a low price. But nowadays, the price of chuck roast has gone up significantly, making it less of a frugal option. With rising beef prices, what used to be a cheap and filling dinner now feels like an expensive indulgence.

Canned Soup

Canned soup used to be a go-to for quick, affordable meals. However, as the price of canned goods has risen, a simple can of soup now costs significantly more than it once did. For what you’re paying, you might as well make your own soup at home with fresh ingredients.

Cheap Gas

Shopping around for cheap gas might have made sense in the past, but with gas prices constantly fluctuating, the savings from driving extra miles to find a cheaper station aren’t always worth it. Many stations offer rewards programs that give discounts or cashback, making it easier to save without having to drive all over town.

Hostels

Hostels were once the go-to for frugal travelers, offering cheap accommodations and a social atmosphere. But as the cost of travel has gone up, so have the prices of staying in hostels. What once cost a few dollars a night now costs upwards of $40, leaving budget travelers with fewer affordable options.

Turning Off Lights

The old advice of turning off lights when you leave a room may save a few pennies, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s not the most effective way to lower your electric bill. Modern LED bulbs use so little energy that the savings from turning them off are minimal. Focusing on reducing heating, cooling, and water usage is a far more effective way to cut your energy costs.

Saving Water

Conserving water to save on your water bill used to be a smart move, but with many areas charging flat fees for water usage, your efforts may not make much of a difference. In areas with low water rates, conserving water can still lead to small savings, but overall, it’s not the money-saver it once was.

Fast Food

Fast food used to be the affordable, quick option for those looking to stretch their dollars. But with rising prices, even the dollar menu is now a thing of the past. What was once a budget meal now feels more like a splurge, and for just a few dollars more, you can enjoy a higher-quality meal at a place like Chipotle.

Renting

The idea of renting to save up for a future home used to make sense, but these days, rising rental prices and stagnant wages are making it difficult for renters to save for a down payment. Many people find themselves stuck in rental cycles, paying more than they would if they had purchased a home years ago.

Buying in Bulk

Buying in bulk used to be the ultimate way to save money, but today, it’s not always the best option. Larger packages don’t always offer the savings they promise, and in many cases, buying smaller quantities can be more cost-effective, especially if you end up wasting what you don’t use.

While these tips were once the foundation of frugal living, the reality is that times have changed, and many of these strategies no longer provide the same level of savings they once did.