30 Ways to Save Big: Frugal Living Tips That Really Work

Are you looking for a way to spend less and save more? Frugal living is all about mindful spending; it’s about saving money where you can- reducing the things you use, cutting down on the amount of money you spend.  

Not sure where to start? Let’s dive into these awesome frugal tips to save money today. 

1. Create a Budget

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Creating a budget for all your expenses is an essential step towards living more frugally. Once you’ve budgeted out all your money needs, you’ll see where you can spend (or save) extra. It’s a win-win!

2. Cook at Home

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The cost of eating out can add up fast. Avoid spending a premium on food and start cooking more of your meals at home. Your stomach (and your wallet) will thank you.

3. Meal Plan

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Meal planning is a great way to stay within your grocery budget. It also prevents the phenomenon of buying much more than you actually need.

4. Buy In Bulk

Ros, CA - May 5, 2021: Bulk Price savings tag on shelf in a home improvement store.
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Buying select food or household items in bulk is a great way to save long-term. Not only are bulk prices often cheaper, but you’ll also cut down on gas and/or delivery fees.

5. Use Coupons

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So many people forget to check for coupons before shopping! Whether shopping online or in person, coupons are an easy and rewarding way to save. Download some coupon apps and start saving!

6. Shop Sales

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If you shop during sale periods, you can take advantage of bargains instead of paying full price. Store sales are the best time to treat yourself at a fraction of the usual cost!

7. DIY Cleaning Products

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Save money on expensive cleaning products by doing with what you have at home. From water and vinegar to baking soda and salt, DIY cleaning products can be simple and effective.

8. Cancel Unused Subscriptions

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We all have that one subscription we never use but keep forgetting to cancel. Take a few minutes out of your day and cancel unused subscriptions for a quick money-saving hack.

9. Borrow Books From the Library

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Books can be expensive when they’re bought brand new. Why not take a trip to your local library and borrow them instead?

10. Unplug Electronics

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Do your electric bill a favor and unplug any electronics when they’re not in use!

11. Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

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Energy-efficient lighting can help save you significant amounts of money per year due to its reduced energy usage. Plus, it’s good for the planet!

12. Walk or Bike Instead of Driving

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We all know how pricey it can be to fill up on gas these days. Consider walking or biking instead. You’ll get some exercise in and save on car costs.

13. Shop at Thrift Stores

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There’s no need to break the bank on a shopping trip. Thrift stores carry clothing, kitchen items, and even furniture. Take a trip to your local thrift store and see what treasures you can find!

14. Repair Clothes Instead of Replacing

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Small stain on your favorite shirt? Instead of buying a new one, try getting it out at home. Simple home remedies can save you tons on your favorite clothing items.

15. Make Your Coffee at Home

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Do you need your morning coffee fix? Don’t worry; we get it! Consider making the switch to homemade coffee instead. It’s cheaper, and can be better for you!

16. Use Public Transportation

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Don’t be afraid of public transportation! It’s a cheap and reliable option for getting around town when you aren’t in a rush. Plus, you can sit back and relax instead of being the one behind the wheel.

17. Cut Cable TV

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So many people don’t even watch cable TV anymore – but they still pay for it! Why not just watch TV through your favorite streaming service instead?

18. Buy Generic Brands

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Generic doesn’t necessarily mean low quality. Consider buying generic brands in everyday items to save big.

19. Use Cashback Apps

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Several apps on the market will give you cashback for things you were already planning on buying. It’s like free money!

20. Cancel Gym Memberships

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Has it been a while since you’ve hit the gym? Why not cancel that membership and get your exercise in at home? From going on hikes to at-home strength training, there are plenty of options you can take advantage of.

21. Plant a Garden

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There’s nothing quite like fresh, homegrown vegetables. A small vegetable garden will practically grow itself as long as you check on it daily. And it’s a great way to save on groceries!

22. Sell Unused Items

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Do you have a garage or attic full of items you never use anymore? Sell them online or host a garage sale to get some money back!

23. Buy Second-Hand Furniture

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Furniture can be crazy expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Plenty of second-hand furniture is still in great condition, and you can find it for a reduced price.

24. Pack Lunch for Work

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Always buying take-out during your work lunches? Pack lunch at home to save money and time!

25. Limit Eating Out

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Eating out all the time can get expensive fast. Limit eating out to save money – and you’ll find that it’ll be more special when you do go out!

26. Use a Programmable Thermostat

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A programmable thermostat will regulate your home temperature when you’re away: and save you money in the process!

27. Avoid Impulse Buying

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Impulse buying can be fun, but it’s a vice best avoided when trying to live frugally. Instead, buy what you need when you need it.

28. Make Your Own Gifts

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It’s hard to budget during the holidays, especially when you’re trying to buy gifts for your loved ones! Consider making homemade gifts instead. They’re more sentimental, and they’ll save you money, too.

29. Use Reusable Shopping Bags

The man used too many plastic bags that they filled up the entire kitchen.
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Many parts of the world charge you to use paper or plastic bags. Bring your own reusable shopping bags to save on bag fees.

30. Use Cloth Diapers

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Cloth diapers are a reusable alternative to disposable diapers, saving you money in the long run. Plus, they’re better for the environment!

12 Not Very Obvious Sign That Someone Is Rich

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It is easy to know when someone is rich. However, sometimes it is not obvious. One Reddit user wanted to know what non-obvious signs pointed out that someone was rich. We have sampled some of the best responses from other Reddit users in that conversation.

12 Not Very Obvious Sign That Someone Is Rich

11 Insanely Frugal Things Most Frugal People Admit To Doing

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Ready to kick your frugality up a notch? We’ve rounded up the top 11 super-duper frugal moves that even the savviest penny-pinchers happily own up to. Yep, you might already be a frugality champ, but trust me, these ideas are like gems of money-saving wisdom you won’t wanna miss!

11 Insanely Frugal Things Most Frugal People Admit To Doing

The IRS Adjusted Its Tax Income Brackets — Are You Ready?

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Have you heard that the IRS adjusted their tax brackets? The reason behind the IRS adjusting its tax income brackets for next year is tax consolidation, which aims to simplify the tax code. You might have already heard about it.

The IRS Adjusted Its Tax Income Brackets — Are You Ready? 

15 Frugal Living Ideas To Make Your Money Stretch

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Frugal living comes with so many pros. You should embrace it whether you want to save up for big purchases, pay off your debts, or build a robust emergency or retirement fund. 

Implementing frugality is an excellent way to get your finances under control. These frugal living ideas can make that happen. 

While people embrace the lifestyle for different reasons, the motivation is usually similar; to save as much money for the things that matter the most to us—looking to get started? These frugal living ideas will help you hit the ground running. 

15 Frugal Living Ideas To Make Your Money Stretch

10 States Where You’re Least Likely To Find a Job

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Inflation has been cooling, unemployment rates are historically low, and wages have been rising, but that doesn’t mean the economic outlook is rosy everywhere and for everyone.

The following are the ten states where you’re least likely to find a job. The numbers are current as of May 2023.

10 States Where You’re Least Likely To Find a Job