There’s something funny about how advice changes as we get older. The same tips that sounded outdated or “too extreme” when we were younger suddenly make a lot of sense when bills pile up and your grocery total makes you do a double take.
For years, people brushed this off as old people stuff. But the truth? A lot of that so-called “outdated” frugality is just smart money sense. No matter how old you are.
So instead of rolling your eyes at grandma’s habits, it might be time to steal a few. These seven old-school tips aren’t just charming. They actually work.
Share Expensive Items
This is a great idea among friends or trustworthy neighbors. For example, maybe one person has a riding mower, another has a snowblower, and yet another has an RV. You can share these things rather than everybody having to get their own. Get together with friends and see what you have. Depend on each other and save money.
Use It Up and Wear It Out
This is the mindset of getting the most use possible out of what you own. As long as it’s usable and working well, keep it. Only replace when you absolutely have to. You don’t need new stuff just because its a new season or a new event. Go shopping in your closet and use it until it’s done.
Cook at Home
Making your own meals is way less expensive than going out or ordering takeout most nights. You can also make several days’ worth of meals at a time to save time later on. As tempting as the delivery apps are: cooking at home is cheaper every time.
Mend Your Clothes
Sewing is not just for old people.
A hole or tear in a clothing item doesn’t always mean you need to replace it. If you can mend it, you should. Even paying someone to do it for you will cost less than a replacement. Learn how to do basic repairs and patching to keep your clothes going a little longer.
Repair as Much as Possible
If you can repair something, do it, especially if you can do it yourself. The point at which this works against you is when the repairs cost more than a replacement. Then it’s time to get a new one. Learn how to do basic repairs yourself to help this along.
Walk or Ride a Bike When You Can
When you drive for an errand, you use gas, which costs money, and you’re putting more wear and tear on your car. Walking or riding a bike instead avoids those things, and you get exercise and fresh air. Do your best to avoid the car and walk where you can.
Choose Free and Cheap Hobbies
Hobbies don’t have to be niche or expensive. Reading, walking to parks, and doing puzzles are just a few examples of hobbies that cost little or nothing. Old-fashioned hobbies are also very often calming (as opposed to watching TV or playing video games). You’ll be much happier and calmer.
Read More:
- 6 Best Apps To Scan Receipts for Money
- The 15 Best Reading Apps for Book Lovers
- The 9 Best Budgeting Apps To Make Managing Your Finance Easy
