16. Meal plan every week
This one’s a game-changer.
Take 10–15 minutes each week to plan your meals around what you already have and what’s on sale.
It cuts down on food waste, SAVES you from those “what’s for dinner?” takeout moments, and helps you shop with purpose.
17. Buy in bulk (smartly)
Not everything needs to be bought in Costco-sized portions—but for pantry staples like rice, beans, oats, or toilet paper?
Buying in bulk often saves you BIG in the long run.
Just make sure you’ll actually use it before it goes bad. Otherwise, it’s not a deal—it’s just clutter.
18. Unplug appliances when not in use
Sounds small, but appliances still suck up energy when they’re just sitting there on standby.
Things like coffee makers, chargers, or the microwave clock? They’re sneaky little energy drains.
Unplug what you can. It’s one of those quiet habits that saves a few bucks every month—and those add up.
19. DIY gifts
Instead of dropping $50 on a last-minute gift, try something handmade or thoughtful: baked goods, a simple craft, a playlist, or even a heartfelt letter.
Cheap doesn’t mean thoughtless—and honestly, the HOMEMADE stuff always feels more personal.
20. Try generic medications
Most generic meds have the exact same ingredients as the brand-name version—and they can cost up to 80% less.
Talk to your pharmacist and don’t be afraid to ask if there’s a cheaper option that works just the same.
21. Learn basic DIY fixes
You don’t need to be a full-blown handyman to fix a leaky faucet, sew on a button, or patch up a scuffed wall.
YouTube is PACKED with tutorials that can save you a service call (and a big bill).
Every little repair you handle yourself adds up—not just in dollars saved, but in confidence too.
You start realizing, “Hey… I can do this.”
22. Switch to a prepaid phone plan
If you’re on one of those major cell phone plans, there’s a good chance you’re overpaying—especially if you’re not even using all the data they’re charging you for.
Prepaid and low-cost carriers offer solid coverage at a fraction of the cost.
And the best part? No surprise fees. Just check the coverage in your area and do a little math—you might be shocked at how much you’re overspending.
23. Rethink your transportation
Gas, maintenance, insurance, registration… cars cost a LOT.
If you can walk, bike, or carpool even a couple of times a week, you’ll notice the savings right away.
And if your area allows, try public transportation.
It’s not glamorous, but it works—and sometimes that’s ALL you need.
Living cheaply often means trading convenience for savings, and transportation is a big place where that trade can pay off.
24. Practice delayed gratification
You see something cute online. Your finger hovers over “add to cart.” Instead, you close the tab and wait 24–48 hours.
If you still really want it after that? Cool.
But most of the time, the urge fades—and you just saved yourself $30 on something that would’ve ended up forgotten anyway.
25. Use your time to make money (not just spend it)
Instead of scrolling, start creating.
If you’ve got a few spare hours each week, use them to sell handmade crafts, take surveys, write, pet-sit, or clean out your closet and list a few things online.
It doesn’t have to be huge.
Even $50–$100 extra a month can help you cover groceries or stash away for an emergency.
26. Say no to bottled water
Here’s a quiet budget leak a lot of people miss: bottled water.
It seems harmless—just a couple of bucks here and there—but it adds up fast.
Instead, invest in a good reusable bottle and a simple water filter for home.
You’ll save money, reduce waste, and never have to lug a case of plastic bottles again.
Small change, big impact.