I enjoy finding ways to save money, but sometimes the tips people suggest are so time-consuming that I wonder how anyone fits them into their day. When I discovered this Reddit thread where frugal individuals shared their easiest and most effective money-saving habits, I couldn’t wait to dive in. Here are some of the top ideas they shared:
1. Keep Track of Spending
One user shared:
“Writing down every expense in an actual budgeting notebook. I’ve tried budgeting apps for years but never stuck with them. Physically writing down my spending has made me far more mindful. Seeing it written out motivates me to spend less!”
They also suggested carrying cash:
“Spending a $20 bill is harder for me than just swiping my card.”
2. Delay Impulse Buys
One frugal tip is to add items to your Amazon cart but wait a few days before purchasing.
“When I revisit my cart later, I often realize I don’t actually need the item and remove it,” one person explained.
Another shared:
“I simplify it even more by writing what I want in the Notes app on my phone. Just writing it down reduces my urge to buy, and I often forget about it altogether unless I truly need it.”
3. Shop at Discount Grocery Stores
Shopping at discount grocers has saved some users hundreds of dollars each month.
“Our local store sells items near or just past their sell-by dates. I was hesitant at first but haven’t had any issues. The savings are incredible,” one commenter shared.
4. Use Your Local Library
One savvy saver said:
“I got a library card and connected it to my Kindle using the Libby app. I haven’t bought a book all year!”
Others mentioned using Libby for audiobooks, which has also helped them “read” more while saving money.
5. Use the Envelope System
Some people recommend budgeting with cash envelopes for categories like groceries and personal spending.
“Paying with cash makes me more aware of how much I’m spending. It’s made a big difference in my habits,” one user explained.
6. Opt for Drink Mixes
Instead of buying bottled sports drinks, one parent suggested powdered drink mixes:
“Walmart sells large containers of Gatorade mix that last all summer. It saves both time and money.”
7. Unsubscribe from Promotional Emails
Cleaning out your inbox can curb impulse spending.
“I unsubscribed from nearly every email list. Now I’m not tempted by sales or discounts,” one commenter said. Another suggested using email filters to send promo emails directly to the trash:
“When I need something, I search my trash for coupons. It keeps my inbox clear and puts me in control.”
8. Switch to High-Yield Savings
Switching to a high-yield savings account has made a big difference for some:
“I went from earning a few cents a month to $30 or more. It’s not easy to withdraw from, so the money stays safe.”
9. Cut the Cable Cord
One family shared:
“We canceled cable but kept Hulu and Prime. No one has missed regular TV.”
10. Cook at Home
Cooking instead of ordering takeout has saved both time and money.
“Frozen chicken strips and tater tots have replaced DoorDash when I need a quick meal,” said one user.
11. Declutter and Organize
Going through drawers and closets can help you avoid unnecessary purchases.
“I found things I forgot I had and realized where I had made impulse buys I regretted. It’s helped me stop repeating those mistakes,” one person said.
12. Reevaluate Insurance
Switching insurance providers saved one family significantly:
“Our auto insurance dropped by two-thirds, and our home insurance was cut in half. We overpaid for years!”
13. Remove Stored Credit Card Info
Making online shopping less convenient can curb spending.
“Deleting my saved credit card info makes me think twice before buying something,” one commenter shared.
14. Use Reusable Cloths
Ditching paper towels has helped some users save money.
“I bought painter’s rags for my art space and brought most of them into the kitchen. They’re reusable and much cheaper over time,” said one commenter.
15. Meal Prep
Preparing meals in advance saves both money and time.
“I prep five oatmeal breakfasts, five pasta meals, and five chicken and rice meals each week. It’s healthier, cheaper, and convenient,” shared one user.
16. Limit Grocery Trips
One user said:
“I go to the store once a week. Fewer trips mean fewer impulse buys and less food waste. I’ve also saved on gas by planning ahead.”
17. Change Social Plans
Meeting friends doesn’t have to involve expensive outings.
“Instead of restaurants, I suggest dessert, hikes, or park meetups. No one seems to mind, and it’s much more affordable,” one commenter explained.
18. Do Your Own Nails
One user shared:
“I’ve stopped getting professional manicures and use up my nail polish collection at home instead.” Others cautioned to use safe methods to avoid potential allergies.
19. Improve Cooking Skills
Cooking at home instead of dining out has been a game changer:
“With practice, my meals are now better than what I’d get in restaurants,” one person said.
These practical ideas show how even small changes can lead to big savings! Which one will you try?
