Being frugal used to be something people did all the time, not just because it was an aesthetic or content. It wasn’t about hacks or tips people found online, but just the way people lived.
Habits are things that you start doing, so they become second-nature. You don’t even think about them. These aren’t tips and tricks; these are lifestyle changes that you can start and keep going your whole life.
These are the old-fashioned frugal living habits we need to bring back in 2026.
Living Only Within Your Means
Credit cards weren’t as popular as they are now. People used cash, and then when they ran out of cash, they just didn’t buy anything. Living within your means is a habit that you should really make sure is a regular part of your life.
Cooking at Home
Cooking at home first and treating takeout like a rare occasion is a habit you should start. Delete all the food delivery apps from your phone and make the default cooking at home. Then takeout becomes a real treat. This will not only save you a lot of money but is also much healthier.
Wearing Clothes Till They Are Worn
You don’t need new clothes! Wearing clothes until they actually wear out and not just until trends change is a great sustainable habit. There are so many perfectly good clothes in your closet that you don’t wear because they aren’t in style or aren’t cool. But these clothes are in good condition, and you really don’t need new ones.
Fixing Things
I’m sure you’ve seen cool DIY fix-it tricks online, but sometimes fixing things isn’t so pretty. Get in the habit of fixing things before replacing them, even if the fix isn’t pretty. Your home and life don’t need to be perfectly curated or aesthetically pleasing at all times.
Planning Meals
Planning meals around what’s already in the pantry is a great habit. Shop pantry staples on sale and plan your meals around these ingredients. You don’t need quick meal options if you get in the habit of planning meals around ingredients you have.
Using Leftovers
Turning leftovers into a whole new meal instead of throwing them away is a great frugal living habit. Most food tastes great reheated, and if you aren’t in the mood, you can repurpose it into so many different ways. Get creative and don’t throw it out.
Keeping Cash
We love credit cards and apps these days, but keeping a small cash stash at home for emergencies and peace of mind is a great old-fashioned habit to start. The cash envelope system is a great way to get started with this habit.
