Are you searching for legitimate ways to save money by embracing a frugal lifestyle?
You’ve got company, and I’ve got some answers.
Here are some great tips to save real money.
1. Buy What You Need First
It’s an old dad joke, you get to the register with your cart full of stuff, and the cashier says, “Did you find everything ok?” and you reply, “And then some!” Then you get home and realize you don’t have the item you originally went to the store for in the first place.
A great idea to make sure this doesn’t happen to you: If I go into a store intent on looking for one specific thing, I don’t put anything in my shopping cart until I find that one thing. This plan forces you to get the item you came for, and if that item isn’t there, you walk out with nothing rather than a cart full of stuff you didn’t need.
2. Eat the Food You Have
Food waste is probably one of the most significant money-wasting issues. Before buying more food, eat what you have. Buy fewer groceries and store what you have correctly. For example, freeze your bread, store fruits in glass-sealed jars, etc.
Batch cook your foods that won’t store separately. This way, you have a frozen meal to defrost later and avoid food spoilage.
Related: 7 Ways to Reduce Food Waste in your Home
3. Write a List of Wants
Write a list of items you don’t need immediately, but that you need and want. Then you can take your time and shop at thrift stores and yard sales, looking out for these items.
Make sure to wash and inspect them, but I have found several gently used items I wanted and use daily.
4. Find the Deals
Every grocery store has particular days when they do markdowns and new sales drop. Find out what these days are at your local stores and shop on those days for the best deals.
For example, you can score a cheap cut of meat just because its expiration date is the next day. Just make sure to cook it that night or freeze it for later.
Additionally, download the Too Good to Go app to be connected with local cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores that hook you up with massive discounts on food that needs to be sold before being tossed out.
Related: How To Save Money on Groceries
5. Learn How Things Work
Learn how the things you own function.
If you understand how something works, it’s easier to fix it yourself or recognize if it’s worth replacing. You don’t have to be an expert, but basic working knowledge can save you time and money.
The internet is full of valuable education that costs nothing more than internet access, which most of us already pay for. YouTube is your best friend for DIY and free tutorials.
Related: What To Know Before Starting a Home Renovation
6. Pay Bills First
Always pay your bills and necessities before spending money on unnecessary fun.
We all need a little fun now and then, but if you spend money you don’t have on a night out, you will stress when you can’t pay your bills. Setting this habit will help in the long run as you increase your income over your lifetime.
7. Public Transportation
You should take public transport where you can. Riding the bus may seem tedious, and it takes longer to reach your destination. Still, you can use this time for work, hobbies like reading, or listening to music.
Public transportation saves money because you spend less on gas, less on car maintenance, and less on oil changes.
8. Dollar Stores
Dollar Stores are great for cleaning supplies, cheap storage solutions, and random home goods. However, they’re not always the most affordable option, so check prices at your regular stores.
For example, you can get two cake pans at Walmart for less than a dollar versus one for $1.25 at Dollar Tree.
9. Auto Program Your Thermostat
Auto program your thermostat, and get used to throwing on a hoodie or sweater when chilly rather than cranking up the heat, and turn off lights when not in the room.
Related: 10 Frugal Tips for Staying Warm During a Winter Freeze
10. Use Cash
It’s easy to grab extra items at the store when you pay with plastic. When your paycheck is deposited, go to the bank and pull out your weekly cash allowance. This way, you leave your card at home and only have the cash to spend.
There is something psychological about holding cash and not wanting to spend it. When you see the cash in your hand, you’re less likely to spend it on unnecessary things since it’s all the money you have.
Related: 22 of the Best Ways To Get Quick Cash
