Looking to get some extra cash in your pockets? Whether you are saving for a long overdue vacation or trying to stash more away for retirement, it can be challenging to know where to start when you need extra money.
It’s so easy to get overwhelmed! That’s why you need to take a good look at all the areas of your life where you might be wasting money unnecessarily.
To help, we’ve compiled and categorized a treasure trove of 100 money-saving tips that can help you boost your savings. From budgeting basics to clever tricks, these tips will get you on your way to saving more in no time!
Let’s get started!
Budgeting and Financial Planning
1. Create a Budget
Before you can save money, you need to know where it’s going. As the first of our money-saving tips, budgeting plays a critical role in gaining control. Create a monthly budget to track your income and expenses.
2. Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions
Do you really need that streaming service you barely use? Cancel those subscriptions you can live without.
3. Cook at Home More Often
Eating out can be costly. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to enjoy healthier meals.
4. Use Cashback and Rewards Cards
Get rewarded for your spending by using cashback and rewards credit cards. Earn cash or points with every purchase.
5. Buy Generic Brands
Generic products are often just as good as name brands but come with a lower price tag.
6. Shop for Groceries With a List
Plan your grocery shopping in advance and stick to your list to avoid impulse purchases.
7. Cancel Unused Gym Memberships
If you’re not hitting the gym regularly, it’s time to say goodbye to that monthly fee.
8. Sell Items You No Longer Need
Declutter your home and make some extra cash by selling unused items online or in a garage sale.
9. Reduce Energy Consumption
Lower your electricity bill by turning off lights when not in use and unplugging appliances.
10. Compare Prices Before Buying
Take a moment to check prices online or in-store to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Transportation and Travel
11. Use Public Transportation
Save on gas and parking by using public transit for your daily commute.
12. Pack Your Lunch for Work
Bringing lunch from home is not only cost-effective but also lets you control your meal choices.
13. Buy In Bulk
Purchase non-perishable items in bulk to take advantage of lower unit prices.
14. Set up Automatic Savings
Use automatic transfers to easily save a portion of your income each paycheck.
15. Avoid Impulse Purchases
Think twice before making impulse buys. Stick to your shopping list.
16. Plan and Prioritize Big Purchases
One of the most obvious of our money-making tips is also one of the most important. Before making a big purchase, take time to plan and prioritize your needs and wants.
17. Shop Secondhand or Thrift Stores
You can buy clothing, household goods, and even furniture at a major discount at thrift stores.
18. Use Coupons and Discounts
Clip coupons and take advantage of discounts to save on everyday purchases.
19. Negotiate Bills
Call your service providers and negotiate better rates for your cable, internet, and utilities.
20. Avoid ATM Fees
Use ATMs from your bank’s network to avoid those pesky fees.
Lifestyle and Habits
21. Cut Out Expensive Habits
Not only is it healthier, but quitting costly habits can save you a significant amount of money.
22. Carpool or Rideshare
Share rides with others to save on gas and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.
23. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade your appliances to energy-efficient models to save on electricity bills.
24. Buy Used Cars Instead of New
New cars lose value quickly, so consider purchasing a reliable used vehicle instead.
25. Brown Bag It Instead of Eating Out
Bringing your lunch to work is a simple way to cut down on dining expenses.
26. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Program your thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re not home, saving on heating and cooling costs.
27. Refinance High-Interest Loans
Do you have high-interest loans eating away at your income? Take a look at refinancing
28. Repair Instead of Replacing
Fix broken items instead of buying new ones whenever possible.
29. Use a Reusable Water Bottle
Ditch single-use plastic bottles and save money while helping the environment.
30. Buy Discounted Gift Cards
Purchase gift cards at a discount to save on future purchases.
Shopping and Consumer Choices
31. Shop During Sales and Clearance Events
Take advantage of discounts during sales and clearance events to score great deals.
32. Avoid Bottled Water
Invest in a reusable water bottle and fill it up from the tap to save on bottled water costs.
33. Cancel Unused Club Memberships
If you’re not using that fancy club membership, it’s time to cancel and pocket the savings.
34. Use a Library Instead of Buying Books
Borrow books and other materials from your local library instead of buying them.
35. DIY Gifts and Crafts
Create thoughtful gifts and decorations at home instead of buying expensive ones.
36. Rent Tools Instead of Buying
Save money and space by renting tools for occasional DIY projects.
37. Use Public Parks and Free Activities
Take advantage of free outdoor activities and community events.
38. Downsize to a Smaller Home
Consider moving to a smaller, more affordable living space if it makes sense for your lifestyle.
39. Buy Store Brands for Medications
Generic medications can be just as effective as name brands but cost significantly less.
40. Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
Regular maintenance can extend your car’s lifespan and improve fuel efficiency.
Entertainment and Media
41. Cancel Cable or Satellite TV
Cut the cord and opt for streaming services to save on entertainment costs.
42. Switch to a Cheaper Cell Phone Plan
Shop around for a more affordable cell phone plan that meets your needs.
43. Make Your Coffee at Home
Brewing your coffee is not only cheaper but allows you to customize your cup just the way you like it.
44. Buy Items When They’re on Sale
When it comes to money-saving tips, the value of grabbing a good sale can’t be ignored. Stock up on essentials when they go on sale to save in the long run.
45. Fix Electronics Instead of Replacing
Before tossing out that broken gadget, consider repairing it or seeking professional help.
46. Use Public Wi-Fi Instead of Data
When possible, connect to public Wi-Fi to reduce data usage and save on your cell phone bill.
47. Set up a Change Jar
Collect spare change in a jar and watch it add up over time.
48. Shop Online With Cashback Portals
Earn cashback on your online purchases by using cashback portals and apps.
49. Use Cloth Diapers for Babies
Reusable cloth diapers can save you money compared to disposable ones.
50. DIY Landscaping and Gardening
Maintain your garden and outdoor space yourself to avoid landscaping costs.
Consumer Electronics and Gadgets
51. Skip Extended Warranties
Most products are covered by warranties already, so avoid paying extra for extended warranties.
52. Refill Ink Cartridges
Refill ink cartridges instead of buying new ones for your printer.
53. Borrow Instead of Buying Tools
Borrow tools from friends or family when you need them instead of purchasing new ones.
54. Invest in Energy-Efficient Lighting
Switch to LED or CFL bulbs for more energy-efficient lighting and lower electricity bills.
55. Use a Bike for Short Trips
Save on gas and get exercise by biking for short errands and commutes.
56. Buy In-Season Produce
In-season fruits and vegetables tend to be more affordable and fresher.
57. Use Hand-Me-Downs for Kids
Pass down clothing and toys between siblings or friends to save on kids’ expenses.
58. Install a Programmable Sprinkler System
Program your sprinklers to water efficiently and save on water bills.
59. Shop at Discount Grocery Stores
Explore budget-friendly grocery stores for everyday essentials.
60. Take Advantage of Free Community Events
Find free events and activities in your community for entertainment.
Home Utilities and Energy Efficiency
61. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Reduce standby power consumption by unplugging devices when they’re not in use.
62. Buy Store-Brand Prescription Drugs
Opt for generic prescription drugs to save on healthcare costs.
63. Cancel Unused Magazine Subscriptions
If you’re not reading those magazines, cancel the subscriptions.
64. Use Public Restrooms To Save Water
Use public restrooms when you’re out to save water at home.
65. Repair Clothing Instead of Replacing
Sew up small clothing tears and fix zippers instead of buying new garments.
66. Use Free Budgeting Apps
Take advantage of free budgeting apps to track your finances and set goals.
67. Buy Multi-Year Car Insurance Policies
Purchasing car insurance for multiple years can often lead to discounts.
68. Make Your Cleaning Products
Create homemade cleaning solutions with common household items.
69. Adjust Your Thermostat Seasonally
Lower your heating in the winter and raise your cooling in the summer to save on energy bills.
70. Purchase Used Furniture
Find high-quality, affordable furniture by shopping for gently used pieces.
Automotive and Transportation
71. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, saving you money on gas.
72. Share Streaming Services With Friends
Split the cost of streaming subscriptions with friends or family.
73. Use a Clothesline Instead of a Dryer
Dry your clothes in the fresh air to save on electricity.
74. Reduce Meat Consumption
Cutting down on meat can lower your grocery bills and benefit your health.
75. Insulate Your Home
Improve your home’s insulation to reduce heating and cooling costs.
76. Use a Water Filter Instead of Bottled Water
Filter your tap water at home instead of buying bottled water.
77. Sell Items on eBay or Craigslist
Turn unused items into cash by selling them online.
78. Host Potluck Dinners Instead of Dining Out
Enjoy meals with friends by hosting potluck dinners instead of dining out.
79. Make Your Own Gifts
Craft heartfelt gifts for special occasions instead of buying expensive presents.
80. Cut Back on Alcohol Consumption
Limit your alcohol intake to reduce both your bar tab and potential health costs.
Shopping Strategies and Consumer Choices
81. Shop at Discount Stores
Visit discount retailers for affordable clothing, household items, and more.
82. Cancel Unused Online Memberships
Review your online memberships and cancel those you no longer use.
83. Use a Prepaid Cell Phone Plan
Prepaid plans often offer cost-effective alternatives to traditional cell phone contracts.
84. Buy Refurbished Electronics
Consider refurbished electronics for significant savings without sacrificing quality.
85. Barter Services With Friends
Trade skills or services with friends to save on professional costs.
86. Join a Carpooling Program
Share rides with coworkers or neighbors through a carpooling program.
87. Shop for Clothes Off-season
Buy seasonal clothing during clearance sales for substantial discounts.
88. Reduce Your Home’s Water Heater Temperature
Lowering your water heater’s temperature can save on energy costs.
89. Keep Track of Expenses
Take a look at your spending habits and recurring expenses. Make sure you are tracking where your money is going.
90. Repair Shoes Instead of Replacing
Extend the life of your shoes by having them repaired when they show wear and tear.
91. Get Free Samples and Trials
Take advantage of free product samples and trials to save on personal care items.
92. Shop for Used Sporting Equipment
Find affordable sports gear at secondhand stores or online marketplaces.
Home Efficiency and Technology
93. Use a Smart Thermostat
Invest in a smart thermostat to efficiently control your home’s temperature.
94. Negotiate Rent or Mortgage Rates
Negotiate your rent or mortgage rates to potentially lower your housing costs.
95. Buy Store-Brand Cleaning Products
Store-brand cleaning products are usually just as effective as name brands but more budget-friendly.
96. Refill Reusable Cleaning Bottles
Refill your cleaning spray bottles with concentrated cleaning solutions to save money.
97. Install a Water-Saving Showerhead
Reduce water usage and save on water bills with a water-saving showerhead.
98. Use a VPN for Online Savings
Protect your online privacy and potentially access better deals with a VPN.
99. Buy Reusable Household Items
Choose reusable options for household products like cloth napkins and shopping bags.
100. DIY Home Repairs and Maintenance
Learn basic home repair skills to tackle minor fixes without hiring professionals.
Take Control of Your Financial Future With Easy Money Saving Tips
Taking action with these 100 money-saving tips can help you take control of your finances and make significant strides toward achieving your financial goals.
Whether you’re looking to build an emergency fund, pay off debt, or simply have more money for the things you enjoy, these tips provide a comprehensive roadmap to financial success.
So, take one step at a time, implement these strategies, and watch your savings grow!
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A Dime Saved
Hi! I am a millennial mom with a passion for personal finance. I have always been “into” personal finance but got inspired to start my blog after a period of extended unemployment. That experience really changed the way I viewed my relationship with money and the importance of accessible personal finance education.
