The Top 10 Frugal Living Tips That Will Help You Save More

Living a frugal lifestyle doesn’t mean giving up the things you enjoy—it’s about being smarter with your money and making thoughtful choices that align with your goals. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase or simply trying to create a financial cushion, adopting a frugal mindset can lead to greater peace of mind and freedom. Here are ten practical and creative tips to help you live frugally while still enjoying life.

1. Create a Meal Plan and Stick to It

Buying groceries without a plan is a quick way to overspend. Start by planning meals for the week and only buy what you need. Incorporate budget-friendly ingredients like beans, rice, and seasonal produce, and look for recipes that use overlapping ingredients to reduce waste. Bonus tip? Try a “leftovers night” to give perfectly good food a second chance.

2. Master DIY Projects

From home repairs to gifts, learning how to DIY can save you a fortune. Fix that leaky faucet, sew a button back on, or make homemade skincare products. Youtube and Pinterest are goldmines for tutorials—so next time, before hiring someone or purchasing a new item, ask yourself, “Can I do this myself?”

3. Cut the Cord—or Downsize Your Subscriptions

Take a hard look at your monthly subscriptions. Are you really watching all those streaming services? Can you replace the gym membership with at-home workouts or free outdoor activities? Even trimming just one or two unnecessary subscriptions can save you hundreds each year.

4. Buy Secondhand or Borrow Before Buying

Embrace thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces for clothing, furniture, and more. You can often find high-quality items at a fraction of the price. Need something for a single occasion or a short project? Borrow from a friend or check out your local library—they often have more than just books, like tools and equipment.

5. Use Coupons and Cashback Apps

Coupons aren’t just for your grandparents! Digital coupon apps and cashback programs can significantly cut down costs on groceries, clothing, and even travel. Apps like Ibotta or Rakuten give you back a percentage of your spending. It may feel slow at first, but those small savings add up fast.

6. Reduce Energy Costs at Home

Small changes add up to big savings. Turn off lights when leaving a room, unplug unused electronics, and switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Consider air-drying clothes instead of using the dryer and adjust the thermostat by a couple of degrees. Not only will you save money, but you’ll shrink your environmental footprint too.

7. Make Coffee (and Meals) at Home

It’s tempting to grab a latte on the way to work, but those small purchases add up. Invest in a quality coffee maker or French press and make gourmet coffee at home. Apply the same approach to meals—bring your lunch to work a few times a week instead of dining out. These simple swaps can save you thousands annually.

8. Negotiate Bills and Shop Around

Many monthly bills, like internet or insurance, are negotiable. Call your provider and ask if they have any current promotions or discounts. Shopping around for cheaper insurance rates or switching to a no-contract phone plan can lower your expenses without sacrificing quality service.

9. Start a Side Hustle or Sell What You Don’t Need

Declutter your home and make extra cash by selling items you no longer love or use. You’ll clear up space while padding your wallet! If you have a skill, offer your services as a side hustle—whether it’s freelancing, tutoring, or crafting. These activities not only supplement income, but can also turn into a rewarding hobby.

10. Practice Delayed Gratification

Before making a non-essential purchase, wait 24 to 48 hours. This short pause helps curb impulse buys and gives you time to think about whether the purchase aligns with your priorities. Often, you’ll find the urge fades, and you might even find a cheaper alternative, or decide you don’t need it at all.

Living frugally is about balance and creativity. By making thoughtful choices and building habits that support your goals, you can stretch your money without sacrificing the things that matter most to you. Each tip above offers a small, manageable change that—when combined—can make a big difference over time. Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the sense of control that comes with smarter spending.

What are your favorite money-saving tips? Share them in the comments below!