Years ago, when I first heard about frugal living, I wanted nothing to do with it. I’ll admit I didn’t really know what being frugal meant, but it sounded like cup noodles and wearing dirty socks for a month to save a little cash.
I was already neck-deep in credit card debt and bank loans, but I wasn’t about to starve my way out of debt.
You might have had similar thoughts about frugality, and I don’t blame you. The name itself seems harsh! The good thing is that I had the wrong idea about frugal living, and it’s actually one of the best ways to save money without living on tea and toast. (I’m a foodie. I reference everything back to food)
WHAT IS FRUGAL LIVING?
Frugal living is basically being smart with your money. It’s about spending less on things you don’t really need so you can save more for the stuff that really matters to you. You become intentional and start finding clever ways to stretch your dollars further and make the most of what you have. So, instead of splurging on every little thing, frugal living is all about being savvy, practical, and making your money work for you.
So whether you’re saving up for that dream vacation, paying off debt, or simply aiming to build a healthier relationship with your finances, these 24 frugal living tips are your golden ticket to financial freedom.
1. Reduce Your Subscriptions
Let’s kick things off with a bang—say goodbye to pricey subscriptions! You don’t need Apple TV, Hulu and Netflix. Who has time to watch that much TV anyway? Whichever streaming service is used the least in your home, just drop it.
At the start of the year, we all say we’ll hit the gym and start eating healthy, so we get a gym subscription, buy an app to track our progress, and buy an e-book of healthy recipes that someone convinced you are nowhere on the internet for FREE. Did you catch the sarcastic bit? I’ve been guilty of this myself, and I know I’m not the only one.
If you know you won’t commit to the gym, cancel your subscription, there’s no shame in it! You can start working out at home. I’m not one to give advice on being fit, but any progress is still progress in my book.
2. Brown Bag It
Craving that daily dose of café cuisine? Before you swipe your card for another pricey lunch out, consider the cost-saving benefits of packing your own lunch.
Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also puts you in control of what goes into your meal. By brown-bagging it, you can whip up tasty and nutritious meals while saving money and promoting healthier eating habits.
OR you can have a fast food fix by making the junk at home while still being frugal. Win-win!
I recommend sweet potato fries and Korean-style fried chicken 🙂
With a little creativity, you can also transform leftovers into delicious lunches that rival any café fare. So, don’t wait until you’re tempted to dine out; opt for the brown bag instead—you’ll keep your wallet happy and your taste buds satisfied.
3. Embrace Second-Hand Chic
Ready to revamp your wardrobe without breaking the bank? It’s time to embrace the world of second-hand chic! Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces are bursting with stylish finds at prices that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
Whether you’re hunting for vintage gems or scoring trendy designer pieces for a fraction of the cost, second-hand shopping offers endless possibilities for fashion-forward looks on a budget.
Why pay full price for the same clothes when you can get a discount?
4. BYOM (Bring Your Own Mug):
Are you a frequent Starbucks visitor? If so, here’s a golden opportunity to save some serious cash. Instead of shelling out for that daily Starbucks fix, why not bring your own mug and brew your favorite cup of joe at home?
Not only is it more affordable, but it also allows you to customize your coffee just the way you like it. Plus, it’s the perfect chance to get creative and experiment with different recipes.
By investing in a quality coffee maker and reusable travel mug, you can fuel your caffeine cravings while watching your savings grow over time.
If you spend $5 at Starbucks for six days each week, that’s $30 each week, $120 each month and $1560 each year.
Just think about it. A good coffee maker will cost less than $200, and all the ingredients for your coffee will cost even less than that.
This frugal living tip is a simple yet effective way to save big bucks without sacrificing your daily caffeine fix!
5. Save Big with Coupons
Clip, print, and save your way to frugal mastery with the power of coupons. It’s like finding free money in your mailbox or on your phone!
Whether you’re snipping them from the Sunday paper or snagging them from digital coupon apps, coupons are your secret weapon for slashing your grocery bill. Plus, who doesn’t love that little rush of excitement when you see how much you’ve saved at the checkout?
Coupons not only help you save money but also allow you to stretch your budget further, giving you extra cash to put toward other things you love.
Don’t overlook the humble coupon—it’s your ticket to savvy shopping and keeping more money in your pocket!
6. Master the Art of Meal Planning
Say goodbye to last-minute takeout orders and hello to meal planning mastery. Meal planning isn’t just about saving time and money—it’s a cornerstone of frugal living that can transform your budget and eating habits.
By sitting down each week to plan out your meals, you’re not just making a grocery list; you’re strategizing how to stretch your dollars further while nourishing yourself and your family.
This frugal tip allows you to use ingredients efficiently across multiple meals, cutting down on waste and unnecessary spending. Plus, when you plan your meals in advance, you can take advantage of sales and buy in bulk, maximizing your savings even more.
Hey! Buying in bulk only makes sense if you’ll use everything before it spoils.
Additionally, meal planning empowers you to make healthier choices by ensuring nutritious options are readily available, reducing the temptation to splurge on fast food or unhealthy convenience meals.
Whether you’re a meal-planning newbie or a seasoned pro, embracing this frugal living tactic can lead to significant savings and a healthier lifestyle.
7. Practice Energy Efficiency
Give your wallet a break by embracing energy-efficient habits—a cornerstone of frugal living that puts money back in your pocket while helping the planet. From simple actions like unplugging electronics when not in use to upgrading to energy-saving LED lightbulbs, these small changes can add up to substantial savings on your utility bills over time.
By being mindful of your energy consumption, you’re not only reducing your environmental footprint but also reaping the financial benefits of lower energy costs.
Take the initiative to implement these frugal tips into your daily routine and watch your savings grow while doing your part for the planet.
8. Embrace Minimalism
Less is more when it comes to embracing a minimalist lifestyle—a key aspect of frugal living that goes beyond just saving money. By decluttering your space, selling or donating items you no longer need, and resisting the urge to impulse buy, you’re not only cutting unnecessary expenses but also cultivating a sense of contentment and fulfillment with less stuff.
Embracing minimalism encourages you to focus on what truly matters, shifting your priorities away from material possessions and towards experiences and relationships. As you streamline your life, you’ll find that you have more time, energy, and resources to dedicate to the things that bring you genuine joy and fulfillment.
9. Swap, Don’t Shop
Swap, don’t shop—it’s a frugal living mantra that not only saves you money but also promotes sustainability and community. Instead of hitting the stores for new clothes, why not host a clothing swap with friends or join online swap groups?
It’s a win-win situation where you can refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime while giving new life to items that might otherwise go to waste. By participating in swaps, you’re not only saving money but also reducing your environmental impact by reusing and recycling clothing.
It’s a fantastic way to connect with others, share fashion tips, and bond over your love for thriftiness. So, next time you’re itching for a wardrobe update, consider swapping instead of shopping—you’ll save money, reduce waste, and have fun in the process!
10. Say No to Brand Names
When it comes to groceries and household items, saying no to brand names is a savvy frugal tip that can make a big difference in your budget. While brand loyalty may seem appealing, it often comes with a hefty price tag.
Instead of shelling out extra cash for name brands, opt for generic or store-brand products—they’re often just as good in quality but come at a fraction of the cost. By making this simple switch, you’ll watch your savings stack up without sacrificing the quality of the items you purchase.
The next time you’re stocking up on essentials, remember that it’s what’s inside the package that counts, not the label on the outside.
11. Embrace Free and Cheap Entertainment
Why break the bank for entertainment when you can have a blast without spending a dime? Embracing free entertainment is a fantastic frugal tip that allows you to enjoy yourself without emptying your wallet.
Instead of shelling out for pricey movie tickets or concert seats, explore the wealth of free activities available. From outdoor concerts in the park to museum days, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly ways to have a good time.
Whether you’re soaking up some sun at a local park, exploring your local zoo, or attending community events, free entertainment options are basically limitless.
The next time you’re looking for something fun to do, skip the pricey options and embrace the wide world of free or inexpensive entertainment.
12. Negotiate Like a Pro
Ready to save some serious cash? Don’t shy away from flexing your negotiation skills when it comes to big-ticket purchases or bills. Negotiating like a pro is a top-notch frugal tip that can lead to significant savings. Whether you’re haggling over the price of a new car or negotiating your monthly bills, don’t underestimate the power of asking for a better deal. You’d be surprised how often companies are willing to offer discounts or lower rates to keep your business.
Before you make any major purchase or sign on the dotted line, brush up on your negotiation tactics, and don’t be afraid to push for a better deal. With a little confidence and finesse, you’ll be amazed at how much you can save!
13. Opt for Free Fitness
Who needs expensive gym memberships when you’ve got the great outdoors and free fitness options at your fingertips?
Opting for free fitness activities is a stellar frugal tip that allows you to stay active without draining your bank account. Instead of shelling out big bucks for gym memberships, consider exploring the wealth of free fitness opportunities available.
Whether it’s joining community fitness classes, hitting the hiking trails, or sweating it out with at-home workouts, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly ways to stay in shape. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy the added bonus of fresh air, scenic views, and the flexibility to exercise on your own terms.
Lace-up those sneakers, step outside, and embrace the world of free fitness—it’s the frugal and fun way to stay healthy!
14. DIY Home Repairs
Why fork over your hard-earned cash for professional help when you can roll up your sleeves and tackle DIY home repairs like a pro?
It’s time to unleash your inner handyman and save money by fixing things yourself. Before reaching for the phone to call in the experts, consider trying your hand at common household repairs. From patching up drywall to fixing leaky faucets, there are countless tutorials available online to guide you through the process step by step. With a little patience and some basic tools, you’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish—and how much money you can save in the process.
Next time something breaks or needs fixing around the house, don’t panic—grab your toolkit and dive into the world of DIY home repairs.
15. Embrace the 30-Day Rule
Before reaching for your wallet to make that impulse buy, why not give yourself a little breathing room? Embracing the 30-Day Rule is a savvy frugal tip that can help you curb unnecessary spending and save money in the long run.
Instead of succumbing to impulse purchases, give yourself 30 days to mull it over. More often than not, you’ll find that the initial urge to buy fades over time, leaving you with a clearer perspective on whether the purchase is truly worth it. By implementing this rule, you’ll not only save yourself from buyer’s remorse but also have the opportunity to redirect those funds toward more meaningful purchases or savings goals.
If you’re tempted to splurge, take a step back, set a 30-day timer, and see if you still feel the same way after a little time has passed. Your wallet—and future self—will thank you for it!
16. Grow Your Own Garden
Calling all green thumbs! It’s time to roll up your sleeves and dig into the world of gardening. Growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs isn’t just a hobby—it’s a fantastic frugal tip that can save you money while providing you with fresh, flavorful produce.
Instead of shelling out at the grocery store for pricey fruits and veggies, why not cultivate your own right in your backyard? Not only will you slash your grocery bill, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from and how it’s grown. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about tending to your garden and watching your plants flourish.
Grab your gardening gloves and get ready to reap the rewards of growing your own garden—it’s a deliciously frugal and fulfilling endeavor!
17. Embrace Cash Back Rewards
Ready to turn your everyday purchases into cash in your pocket? It’s time to embrace cash-back rewards and loyalty programs—a savvy, frugal tip that lets you make the most of your spending.
Whether you’re swiping your credit card or shopping through cash-back apps, every purchase can earn you money back over time. By taking advantage of these rewards programs, you’re essentially getting paid to shop for the things you need. Whether it’s earning points toward future purchases or receiving cold, hard cash back, every little bit adds up and helps stretch your budget further.
So, the next time you’re shopping online or swiping your card at the checkout, make sure to maximize your savings by embracing cash-back rewards—it’s like getting paid to shop!
18. Host Potluck Dinners
Tired of seeing your dining-out expenses skyrocket every time you hang out with friends? It’s time to shake things up with a potluck dinner! Hosting a potluck is a fantastic frugal tip that lets you enjoy delicious meals with friends without emptying your wallet.
Instead of footing the bill for an expensive restaurant meal, each guest brings a dish to share, spreading the cost and ensuring a feast without breaking the bank. Not only does hosting a potluck save you money, but it also adds a fun and communal element to mealtime. Plus, you’ll get to sample a variety of dishes and enjoy the company of your loved ones without the hefty price tag.
Start planning your next potluck—it’s the perfect way to enjoy good food and good company without breaking the bank!
19. Cut Your Own Hair
Tired of shelling out big bucks for salon visits every few weeks? It’s time to take matters into your own hands and embrace the art of cutting your own hair. With a quality pair of scissors and some online tutorials, you can master the DIY haircut and save yourself a bundle in the process. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent for hairstyling along the way!
So, say goodbye to pricey salon visits and hello to the satisfaction of giving yourself a fresh trim from the comfort of your own home.
20. Shop Seasonally
Why pay premium prices for fruits, vegetables, and clothing when you can snag them for a fraction of the cost by shopping seasonally? It’s time to embrace the seasonal price fluctuations and take advantage of the savings that come with it.
By shopping seasonally, you’ll not only enjoy lower prices but also fresher produce and on-trend fashion finds. Whether it’s stocking up on summer berries or snagging winter coats on clearance, shopping with the seasons is a savvy frugal tip that allows you to stretch your budget further without sacrificing quality.
During your shopping trips, keep an eye out for seasonal deals to increase your savings!
21. Embrace Free Financial Resources
Want to become a money-saving guru? It’s time to tap into the wealth of free financial resources available at your fingertips. From podcasts to blogs to online courses, there’s a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to help you master the art of frugal living.
By taking advantage of these free resources, you can expand your money-saving know-how without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking to budget better, invest wisely, or tackle debt, there’s something out there to help you on your financial journey.
Don’t hesitate to dive in and start soaking up all the free financial wisdom—you’ll be on your way to financial freedom in no time!
22. Practice Mindful Spending
Ever find yourself making impulse purchases and regretting them later? It’s time to put an end to mindless spending and embrace the practice of mindful spending. Before handing over your hard-earned cash, take a moment to pause and ask yourself if the purchase aligns with your values and priorities.
Mindful spending helps you distinguish between wants and needs, ensuring that your money is spent in a way that brings you true satisfaction and fulfillment. By practicing mindfulness in your spending habits, you’ll not only save money but also cultivate a healthier relationship with your finances.
23. Practice the 24-Hour Rule
Ever find yourself making impulse buys that you later regret? Say hello to the 24-Hour Rule—a simple yet effective frugal tip that can save you from buyer’s remorse and unnecessary expenses.
Here’s how it works: before making a non-essential purchase, give yourself a full 24 hours to think it over. More often than not, you’ll find that the initial urge to buy fades with time, leaving you with a clearer perspective on whether the purchase is truly worth it.
By implementing this rule, you can avoid impulsive spending and make more thoughtful purchasing decisions that align with your budget and goals.
24. Celebrate Your Wins
Let’s take a moment to celebrate your frugal victories! Whether you’ve reached a savings milestone, resisted the temptation to splurge, or found creative ways to stretch your budget, each win deserves to be recognized and celebrated.
Embracing frugal living isn’t always easy, but every small triumph brings you one step closer to financial freedom. So, whether you treat yourself to a small reward or pat yourself on the back, take pride in your frugal living journey and keep striving for your financial goals.
Remember, every penny saved is a step towards a brighter and more secure future—so keep up the great work, and keep those wins coming!
And there you have it—25 frugal living tips to help you save thousands and take control of your finances. Whether you’re a seasoned saver or just dipping your toes into the world of frugality, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, embrace the power of frugal living, and watch your savings soar!
