15 Lesser-Known Frugal Hacks Everyone Should Try Once

Frugal living has become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for ways to save money and live within their means. Countless frugal hacks can help you save a few bucks here and there, but not all of them are worth the effort.

Meal Planning Around Available Groceries

Our best money-saving hack has been shopping the weekly grocery sales and planning our meals around those deals. This strategy has allowed us to slash our grocery bill from $250 to $100 per week.

Always Pack Snacks

Plan and pack your snacks each week and take it along to office or college. Opt for healthy choices like fresh fruits, nuts, and yogurt. This strategy ensures you stay satisfied and avoid unnecessary spending.

Mull Over Purchases For 5 Days

Always mull over your purchases for a few days before buying. This waiting period helps ensure that you’re making thoughtful decisions and not buying things you don’t truly need, ultimately saving money and reducing impulse buys.

Using Kitchen Towels Instead of Paper Ones

Replace paper towels with reusable kitchen towels to save money and reduce waste. Americans spend an average of $120 per year on paper towels, while a one-time purchase of kitchen towels can last for years and significantly reduce landfill waste. This simple switch is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Menstrual Cup

A menstrual cup is a one-time expense that can last for several years, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to disposable menstrual products. This longevity significantly reduces both your expenses and environmental impact over time

Buying At Thrift Stores

Buying second-hand items and shopping at thrift stores can save you a significant amount of money.

On average, thrift shoppers can save up to 80% compared to retail prices and over $1700 in a single year. This not only helps your budget but also supports sustainable practices by reducing waste and the demand for new products.

Learning To Cook Better

Learning to cook better can significantly reduce your food expenses by allowing you to prepare meals at home rather than dining out. On average, home-cooked meals cost 60% less than restaurant meals.

Additionally, cooking skills enable you to use ingredients more efficiently, minimizing waste and maximizing your grocery budget. When you feel like eating fancy, you can cook something at home as well. 

Buy When On Sale

Tracking and buying during sales can lead to substantial savings on items you need. However, it’s crucial to avoid the temptation of purchasing unnecessary items just because they’re discounted. By sticking to a pre-planned list, you ensure that your spending remains focused on essentials, maximizing the benefits of sales without overspending.

Marry A Frugal Person

It’s crucial to marry someone who shares your financial values and frugality to ensure long-term financial compatibility and stability.

A partner who aligns with your financial mindset can support your savings goals and help you make sound financial decisions. Together, you can build a strong financial foundation and navigate challenges effectively, fostering trust and harmony in your relationship.

Asking For Samples or Generic Meds

Asking your doctor for generic medications can help you save significantly on prescription costs. Generic drugs typically cost 80-85% less than their brand-name counterparts, offering the same quality and effectiveness.

Downsize to one car

Downsizing to a smaller or having only one car can yield significant savings, with American households spending an average of $9,282 annually on transportation.

By reducing the number of vehicles, families can save an estimated $1,182 per year on insurance premiums alone. Additionally, smaller vehicles typically offer better fuel efficiency, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually on gas expenses

Cutting Your Own Hair

Opting to cut your own hair and perform salon treatments at home can lead to substantial savings on grooming expenses. On average, Americans spend around $1,300 annually on salon visits, which can be significantly reduced by DIY approaches. With readily available tutorials and affordable grooming tools, mastering these skills can offer long-term financial benefits.

Shifting To A Bidet

Installing a bidet can lead to substantial savings on toilet paper expenses. Americans spend an average of $182 per year on toilet paper, but with a bidet, this cost can be drastically reduced by up to 75%. By making the switch, households can save thousands of dollars over the long term while also reducing environmental impact.

Generic Brands

Opting for generic brands over name brands can save money on groceries and household items without sacrificing quality, as many generic products are comparable in taste and performance to their brand-name counterparts.

Free Community Events

Community events often offer free or low-cost entertainment options such as concerts, festivals, and workshops, allowing you to enjoy leisure activities without spending a lot of money.