Quintessential refers to something that is the most perfect or essential example of a particular quality or type. It represents the ultimate essence of something.
When we talk about frugal living there are some frugal living tips that just are the epitome of frugality. These are the most basic and most true frugal living tips. I’ve tried to compile some of them here for you. These are the basic ones. The ones you really need to start doing.
We all have reasons to save, whether for that dream vacation, a rainy day fund, or to stop living paycheck to paycheck. These classic money-saving hacks for frugal living are the best way to reach your financial goals. There is no reason why you shouldn’t start doing them today!
Create a Detailed Budget
The most basic thing of all is to create a budget. It’s the first step and the most important. Just do it. A basic budget is the foundation of successful money management.
Track Your Expenses
Monitoring your spending habits is crucial for identifying areas where you can cut back.
Cut Unnecessary Spending
Trim your budget by eliminating non-essential expenses. Live on less. Learn to do without.
Cook Meals at Home
Eating out can quickly drain your wallet. Try cooking more meals at home to save money.
Meal Prep for the Week
Plan and prepare your meals in advance to reduce the temptation of ordering takeout. You’ll also be able to eat cheaper foods such as rice and beans if you prep them in advance.
Buy Generic Brands
While they are often significantly cheaper, generic products often offer the same quality as name brands. Most of the time, you won’t even notice a massive difference in the taste, effect, or quality, but we can assure you that your savings will feel the difference.
Use Cash Instead of Cards
Paying with cash can help you stick to your budget and avoid impulse purchases. Cards remove the feeling of spending money, making it easier to overspend.
Buy In Bulk
Purchasing non-perishable items in bulk can save you money in the long run- especially if you stock up on items when they are on sale.
Shop With a Grocery List
Stick to your shopping list to avoid buying unnecessary items. Plan in advance and you’ll be able to buy only what you need.
Use Digital Coupons
Take advantage of digital coupons and cashback apps to reduce grocery and basic expense.
Shop During Sales
Plan your purchases around sales events to maximize savings. When something is on sale buy a few to save.
Cancel Unused Subscriptions
Review your subscriptions and cancel those you no longer need. Try cancelling different subscriptions and see if you can live without them. If you still miss them you can always sign up again (often with a promo).
Stop Eating Out
Stop eating out and start eating at home. Limit eating out to special occasions and focus on home-cooked meals.
Use Public Transportation
Save on gas and parking fees by using public transportation whenever possible.
Carpool or Rideshare
Share rides with others to split fuel costs and reduce your carbon footprint. You can be proactive about this: If there is a place you go to frequently (such as work or school), ask around to find a carpool buddy.
Walk or Bike When Possible
Choose walking or biking for short trips to save on transportation costs and stay active.
DIY Home Repairs
Learn basic home repair skills to fix minor issues without hiring professionals. You can YouTube almost anything and see how to repair it.
Buy Secondhand Furniture
Furnish your home with gently used furniture to save on the cost of new furniture. Very few pieces of furniture are worth buying new.
Sell Unused Items
Declutter your space and make extra cash by selling items you no longer need.
Host Potluck Dinners
Enjoy meals with friends while sharing the cost by hosting potluck dinners. This is a great way to get entertainment and socializing in without spending too much money.
Make Coffee at Home
Brew your own coffee at home instead of ordering at expensive coffee shops.
Pack Lunch for Work
Prepare your lunches in advance to avoid buying costly takeout meals or cafeteria costs.
Buy In-Season Produce
Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often more affordable and fresher. Choose what is cheap instead of what looks fun.
Use Your Local Library
Borrow books, movies, and digital resources from your library for free. There are also lots of free classes and items you can borrow from the library. Look there first.
Purchase Used Books
If you can’t find what you need at the library then save on reading materials by buying used books or using eReaders.
DIY Cleaning Products
Most cleaners consist of a few basic household ingredients. Making your own can cut costs while still cleaning really well.
Learn how to here: 8 DIY Cleaning Supplies Recipes You Can Make To Save Money
Cut Cable or Satellite TV
Consider streaming services or free over-the-air TV to lower entertainment costs. There are lots of free TV options, or you can rotate streaming services—signing up for one and then cancelling to sign up for a different one—to save money.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances to reduce electricity bills.
Cancel Magazine Subscriptions
Read magazines online or at the library instead of subscribing.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Automate temperature adjustments by using a programmable thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs. Set the heat to adjust whenever you are out of the house.
Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Avoid standby power consumption by getting in the habit of unplugging devices.
Shop at Thrift Stores
Thrift stores offer great deals on clothing, home decor, and more. When you need something, make a thrift store your first stop.
Collect Rainwater for Gardening
Set up a rain barrel to collect rainwater for your garden. If you have a lawn, stop watering it. You don’t need an expensive lawn, and you’ll save money on water.
Use a Clothesline
Air-dry your clothes on a clothesline to save money by not using a dryer. Plus, it’s better for your clothes.
Shop at Discount Stores
Find everyday items at discounted prices by exploring discount stores instead of the nicer, more expensive stores.
Repair Clothing Instead of Replacing
Learn basic sewing skills to mend clothes instead of buying new ones. You don’t need to buy new clothes just because a button fell off or a hem fell down. Learn to patch pant knees to make them last longer.
Cut Your Own Hair
Consider DIY haircuts or ask a friend to help. If you can’t then push off haircuts by just a bit to stretch the savings.
Use Prepaid Phone Plans
Prepaid plans often offer similar services at a lower cost than traditional contracts. You won’t get a free phone, but you don’t need one anyway.
Cancel Unused Gym Memberships
If you’re not using your gym membership regularly, consider canceling it. Learn to exercise at home or choose to do something free like running or playing in the park.
