8 Tips for Frugal Living That Will Save You Money
Frugal living encompasses every way you can cut down on your spending in order to save more money. Frugal living isn’t about scrimping or scraping by, however; it’s about enjoying life without having to spend as much money as possible, and all of these tips will help you do just that!
1. Keep Track of Spending
Keeping a record of every penny you spend will help you recognize areas where you can cut back. By checking your balance regularly, and entering in credit card purchases as they happen, you’ll be able to spot any problems quickly and correct them before they spiral out of control. This simple habit can help you get a handle on overspending.
2. Use Cash
Using cash is a great way to keep track of how much you’re spending. If you can only spend what you have, then there’s no credit card debt or surprise overdraft fees (which means less stress!).
Next time you want to buy something that costs more than $5, leave your debit or credit card at home and just take some greenbacks with you. Be sure to use these funds on food—not fun stuff!
3. Cook Your Own Meals
Cooking your own meals is an easy way to save money and lose weight. Not only can you make a delicious and nutritious meal at home, but you can also control exactly what goes into it.
Packaged and prepared foods are full of extra calories, sodium, fat, and sugar. Get into a habit of making meals in your kitchen so that when you’re out eating at restaurants or going to parties, you don’t succumb to unhealthy choices.
4. Compare Prices at Different Stores
The easiest way to save money is simply to buy things at a lower price. Whether you’re picking up your weekly groceries or buying an expensive new TV, it pays to shop around and compare prices among different shops.
Unless it’s a brand you trust, look online before making a purchase and don’t be afraid to ask if there are any discounts available.
Most importantly, never buy an item just because it costs less than what you thought—make sure that it really is good value for money.
5. Clean With Vinegar and Baking Soda
Did you know that vinegar and baking soda can be used to clean just about anything in your home? Did you also know that they’re both inexpensive, natural household staples?
If you want to live frugally, keep a couple of bottles of each around and try these easy cleaning tips! For example, did you know that simply mixing together vinegar and baking soda will help remove grease stains from walls?
All you have to do is apply it directly to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes or so (the longer it sits, the better), then wipe off with a damp cloth. Or did you know that using vinegar on wood floors will help get rid of scratches and scuffs? Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray on scratches.
6. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
When you can, avoid buying things at full price. Loyalty programs from grocery stores and other retailers allow you to save money by earning rewards, credits, or cash back when you shop.
By signing up to get e-mails from your favorite companies and making sure to always take advantage of special offers, deals, and promotions, you can score steep discounts on all sorts of stuff.
7. Buy Used Items
Buying used is a great way to save money, as long as you’re not buying something that is being sold simply because it’s broken.
No matter what, you should always inspect any used product closely before purchasing it and make sure to ask questions about its condition.
If you do your homework and buy quality used items in good condition, you can typically save 60% or more off of retail prices by buying used.
8. Invest in Yourself
Learning how to start a new business from conception to execution will not only be beneficial to your career, but it can also help you live more frugally.
Learning new skills means being less dependent on others. Whether you’re teaching yourself how to knit or learning a foreign language, setting aside time each day to learn new things is one of the most effective ways of saving money and living a more financially secure life.
For an investment that’s practically guaranteed to pay off, start learning something new today!
