We love a good vintage. Everything from band tees to wines gets better as they age. But did you know that old-school money tips can be just as good today? Here are eleven money-saving tips that will never go out of style.
Ditch the Paper
Whether it’s paper towels or plates, go with reusable alternatives. This will help you save money and reduce waste.
Make Coffee at Home
The designer latte is a relatively new concept. Bring back making your coffee at home, even if it takes you a little extra time to make it just the way you like.
Turn Off Your Lights and Unplug
Turn things off when you aren’t using them. This seems obvious, but we’re so plugged in these days that most people don’t bother. Making an effort can net you some serious savings on your electrical bill.
Plan Your Meals
Embrace the art of meal planning. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also helps you stick to your grocery budget. And there’s no more, “what are we having for dinner tonight?” “Past” you has the bases covered!
Use Cash
Forget credit or pay-over-time options for discretionary spending — use cash as a fun (and fiscally responsible) throwback! Using cash for certain parts of your budget helps limit your spending and be more mindful about where your money goes.
Shop Secondhand
Everything from thrift stores to garage sales can be veritable treasure troves for items both ordinary and extraordinary. Shopping for more things secondhand saves you money, and hunting for hidden gems is honestly a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Take the Bus
If you live in an area with public transportation, take the bus! If you don’t but the location is in walking distance, take your legs! Don’t rely on your car as much and you’ll save significantly on transportation-related expenses.
Quality Over Quantity
Sometimes, spending a little more on high-quality items can save you money in the long run, as they often last longer and perform better. This is especially important for items like electronics or appliances because they’re more expensive. Still, you could (and should) apply the same logic to just about anything.
Have a Potluck
If you’re celebrating something special, skip the fancy dinner and invite everyone to bring a dish to share instead. This is delightfully vintage and encourages friends and family to whip up their specialties, which makes everyone feel involved.
Search for Deals
Take the time to search for coupons, sign up for loyalty programs, and do your research. It’s never been easier to compare prices, yet it’s still something that’s mostly relegated to past consumers. Bring it back and spend less on things you already buy.
Make Your Gifts
Handmade gifts are often more cherished than store-bought ones. Chances are, your closest friends would love a tin of freshly baked cookies over your average run-of-the-mill candle any day of the week. You don’t have to spend money to show people that you care about them!
