Let’s talk about something everyone loves but rarely does enough of: saving money!
It might not be as thrilling as snagging the latest gadget or splurging on a shopping spree, but having extra money in your account? That’s a real power move.
Smart money habits don’t have to be complicated. Here are 20 crafty frugal living tips that make saving feel a little less painful and a lot more rewarding.
1. The 72-Hour Rule
Before buying anything that’s not a necessity, try waiting 72 hours. Add the item to a list or keep it in your cart. If you still want it after three days, go ahead, but most of the time, that urge passes.
Bonus tip: Tracking all these “non-purchases” adds up fast. It’s like watching your self-control save you money in real time.
2. Buy Reusable Items
Replacing single-use products with reusable ones is better for both your wallet and the planet. Think: steel water bottles, reusable K-cups, dish towels instead of paper towels. Even those free plastic sports bottles from events can do the job until you upgrade.
3. Say No to Coupons
Coupons can be great, but only if you were planning to buy the item anyway. Don’t get tricked into thinking you’re saving money when you’re actually spending it on things you don’t need. That “50% off” deal isn’t a deal if you never wanted it in the first place.
4. Do It Yourself
Next time something breaks, ask yourself: Could I fix this with the right tool? If the cost of the tool is about the same as the repair, it might be worth it—especially if it means you can fix it yourself next time, too. You save money and learn a new skill.
5. Compare Prices by Unit
When grocery shopping, don’t just look at the sticker price. Check the unit price (like per ounce or per sheet). That’s how you’ll know which product actually offers the best value—especially when comparing different sizes or brands.
6. Think in Portions
Put purchases in perspective by comparing them to something else you want. For example, is that $6 coffee really worth one-tenth of a new video game? Is that new jacket worth a whole Saturday of overtime? Assigning “value equivalents” helps make spending decisions clearer.
7. Eat Before You Go Out
Heading to the mall or grocery store on an empty stomach is a fast track to overspending. Eat before you go. You’ll make smarter decisions, stick to your list, and avoid overpriced snacks and meals along the way.
8. Review Your Bank Statements
Little purchases add up fast. Regularly check your bank statements so you can see where your money is actually going—coffee runs, takeout, spontaneous Amazon hauls. Many banks even offer “round-up” savings features that move spare change from purchases into your savings automatically.
9. Save Like a Smoker Without the Cigarettes
Try this clever strategy: pretend you’re a smoker, but don’t smoke. Every week, transfer the amount you’d spend on cigarettes into your savings account. It’s a sneaky but effective way to turn a harmful habit into a healthy financial one.
10. Don’t Buy the Cheapest Option
Buying the cheapest version of something often means you’ll have to replace it sooner. Instead, go for the best *value*—a balance between quality and price. Sometimes that middle-tier product will last longer and save you more in the long run.
11. Avoid Loans When You Can
Debt might seem like a short-term solution, but interest quickly turns it into a long-term burden. If you can, avoid payday loans at all costs. Picking up a temporary side hustle or cutting expenses is usually a better option than borrowing.
12. Get a Library Card
Libraries are goldmines. Beyond free books, many offer DVDs, eBooks, music, comic books, educational software, and workshops. Some even let you reserve materials online and pick them up at your nearest branch. It’s one of the easiest ways to save thousands over time.
13. Save Your Coins
Loose change may not seem like much, but if you consistently save it, it adds up. Try filling a bottle or jar with coins throughout the year. Use the savings for holiday gifts or roll it straight into your emergency fund.
14. Follow the 3x Rule
Here’s a simple rule: if you can’t afford to buy it three times, you can’t afford it. This mindset adds an extra layer of reflection before any big purchase and helps you build up some financial cushion at the same time.
15. Act Broke
Even if you’re doing okay financially, pretending you’re broke can help you spend less. Eat at home before meeting friends, skip expensive nights out, and be honest if you’re turning down a trip or dinner because you’re “saving.” It works, and no one needs to know your bank balance.
16. Buy Secondhand
Used doesn’t mean low quality. Buying secondhand can get you great furniture, clothes, and electronics for a fraction of the original cost. Be patient, keep an eye out, and you’ll score incredible deals over time.
17. Check Out the Dollar Store
Don’t underestimate the value of dollar stores. You can find everything from household cleaners to snacks for just a buck.
18. Use Separate Bank Accounts
Separate your money based on its purpose: rent, bills, spending, savings. It keeps your budget cleaner and helps prevent “accidental” overspending. It’s a great way to make sure your grocery money doesn’t end up funding a spontaneous weekend trip.
19. Thrift and Outlet Stores
Shop at thrift or outlet stores for clothes and everyday essentials. Defective or off-season clothes are often sold at a major discount, and the imperfections are usually barely noticeable, especially compared to the price tag.
20. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If you’re struggling financially, look into food stamps or other public assistance programs. There’s no shame in using available resources to make ends meet. In some places, benefits even double in value at farmers markets or can be used for seeds to grow your own food.
Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your lifestyle. Sometimes it’s just about being a little more intentional with the choices you make. Try a few of these hacks and watch your savings grow!
