Looking for the best money-saving tips in these tough times? Well, your search is over! Someone recently turned to the internet asking for advice on saving money, and here are the top-voted recommendations from the community that Gen Z’ers and millennials will truly appreciate.
1. Delete Your Food Service Apps
The number-one-voted response is to delete the food delivery apps such as Uber Eats and Door Dash. One suggested all you’re doing is watching TV anyways, so get up and get the food to save all the delivery and tip fees for another meal.
Others said, NO! Delete the apps and cook your meals at home. Finally, after removing the app, one admitted, “My friend and I have a bet to see who can go the longest without Door Dash. The amount of money I’ve saved so far is embarrassing.”
2. Pay Yourself First
One explained how paying yourself first was a game-changer that helped save them money and allowed them to spend without remorse. You save and spend whatever is left over versus going on spending sprees and attempting to save what is left over.
3. Automatic Transfers to Your Savings Account
Another user shouted, “AUTOMATE YOUR SAVINGS AND PRETEND YOU DON’T EARN THAT. Yes indeed. Most of us, even those who aren’t as fortunate, could save if we just started, even if it’s just 50 bucks a month. And once you start to see your account go up, it feels great.”
4. Learn to Make It at Home
Back to deleting food apps, start cooking your food at home. Several agreed that if you learn to cook, you will spend less money at restaurants and fast food.
Someone added, “If you drink coffee often, make it at home instead of buying it every day. Cut out, or at least trim down on, snack foods and drinks. Coffee makers have timers you can set the night before and so even drip into a thermos to take with you. Money saved.”
5. Learn to Fix as Much as You Can, Within Reason
Many in the thread suggested learning to fix as many things as possible. One noted, “I’ve saved easily tens of thousands of dollars fixing everything myself, and I don’t have to make annoying appointments that make me ruin a day to get ripped off at the end.”
Another added to search for repair clinics for what you don’t know how to repair and skill share. Also, purchase items that are easier to fix, even if they’re more expensive.
6. Food Prep and a Vacuum Sealer
Food preparation came highly recommended in the thread. It was suggested that making food in bulk and freezing it for later preserves freshness and saves money. A good vacuum sealer makes this process easier.
7. Get Yourself a Library Card
Libraries are for a lot more than reading. Several commenters advised getting a library card. Many have 3D printers, toys, movies, music, instruments, tools, and other resources. Additionally, you can listen to or read things through the Libby app for free with a library card.
8. Be Sure to Track Your Spending
You can only save money once you know how you’re spending it. So tracking your spending is necessary. One suggested categorizing expenses: utilities, housing, food, gas, clothing, entertainment, hobbies, phone, savings, travel, etc. Track your spending for a few months to gauge your average.
9. If You Can Walk, Bike, or Utilize Public Transportation
Many in the thread noted that cars are expensive for purchase, insurance, repairs, upkeep, and gas. You’ll save money without one or by limiting use. One suggested, “If you can walk, cycle, or take public transport to get somewhere, do so.
You’ll not just save money, but active travel is an excellent way to keep in shape. I know the Americans and Canadians will come at me for that, but if you can, do it.”
Also, on that note: Active travel is a cheaper and more sustainable way to lose weight than going to the gym. If you have heavy shopping, get a Granny Trolley, your fingers will help you. The reason why the Japanese are so fit and healthy is that they walk a lot. Seriously, your body will thank you.”
10. Credit Unions are Awesome
Open an account in a credit union and have 10% of your pay directly deposited there. Then, never open the statements and use the card; activate it and keep it someplace safe but semi-unreachable. It will allow you to begin to build your safety net.
11. Credit Cards Can Be Beneficial
Finally, several others acknowledged that contrary to what many believe about credit cards, they could be huge money savers when used responsibly.
One warned, “If you can’t pay for it out of pocket, don’t charge it on a credit card. Even moderate awareness to leveraging rewards can save you 5-10% on most items and often more.”
Money-Saving Hacks That Actually Work
Money-saving life hacks are all over the internet, but let’s face it, many of them are just plain boring. Sure, we all know about the classic tips like cutting out your daily latte, packing your lunch, and using coupons – but let’s be real, those hacks can only get you so far.
Read More: 11 Money-Saving Hacks That Actually Work (Your Wallet Will Thank You)
Money-Wasting Products You Can Stop Buying Right Now
Whether you need to cut back on spending to keep up with your bills or you want to save money every month, you need to take a close look at what you buy and what you can do without. By carefully examining your purchases, you can find ways to reduce your monthly expenses and put more money towards the things that truly matter.
Read More: Slash Your Expenses: 24 Things You Should Stop Buying Today
In Case of Emergency
Most people know they need to save money for emergencies, but many don’t have a solid plan to make that happen.
Here are the steps to save money for an emergency fund and break down some of the best tips to stick to your budget. By following our advice, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that you have a cushion in case of unexpected expenses.
Read More: You Need an Emergency Fund! Here’s How to Start One Today
Amanda Kay, the founder of My Life, I Guess, provides valuable career advice and support for anyone striving to make a living and, more importantly, make a life. Whether it's navigating job searches, learning new skills, overcoming unemployment, or dealing with debt, My Life, I Guess has been a go-to resource for career guidance and financial stability since 2013. Amanda's expertise and relatable approach have been featured in trusted publications such as MSN, Credit.com, Yahoo! Finance, the Ladders and Fairygodboss.