The Frugal Life: Tips to Save Money

Upon hearing about people wanting to live a more frugal life, the words ‘sacrifice’ and ‘deprivation’ often come to mind. However, living a frugal life doesn’t mean you aren’t able to enjoy what you love; it simply means living a smart life that is accentuated by smarter spending. Living frugally allows you to focus on your ultimate goals in life, whether that means paying off debts, retiring early, or being able to pad your savings. Here are some tips to help you start living a frugal life and put you on the track to living within your means.

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Pack Your Lunch

While spending $8 dollars on quick lunch every day might not seem like a lot, that adds up over time. By the end of the month, you could be up to nearly $200 in lunches alone! By cooking your meals and bringing lunch with you every day, you’re not only saving money, but you’ll also be able to make healthier choices.

Keep Up on Bills

This may seem like a no-brainer, but missing any payments on anything can lead to a multitude of late fees that add up over time, not to mention a lower credit score if it’s your credit card bill.  

Crockpot Meals

If you don’t have a crockpot, then you might want to invest in one. These sweet kitchen gadgets allow you to prepare meals for the entire week, and all you need to do is mix in the ingredients and let it sit all day.

Skip the Latte

The four dollar latte in the morning is one of the biggest money wasters in the world. There no need to drop half the price of a meal on a morning coffee when you can make some good brew at home. Learn how to brew the perfect cup at home, and you’ll instantly see the savings add up.

Meal Plan

By planning out your weekly meals, you’ll have readily available meals throughout your day, and you won’t be tempted to eat out. Plus, it saves you a ton of time from having to cook every day.

Shop Store Brand

Often times, store brand groceries are exactly the same in terms of quality and taste, but for a fraction of the price.

Cut the Cord on Cable

There are plenty of cheaper alternatives to cable with more personalized options that cater towards what you want actually want to watch. No need to go crazy with a ton of different streaming subscriptions, just find the one that works best with you, and say goodbye to expensive cable.

Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions

Do you really need that monthly magazine you rarely read? The answer is a resounding no. Go through your monthly expenses and cut out anything that isn’t absolutely necessary or crucial to your everyday life.

Eat Before Going to the Movies

Buying popcorn, candy, and drinks at the theatre has gotten to the point where you need to take out a loan to afford it all. Okay, maybe a little dramatic, but the point is getting treats at the theatre is way too expensive. Try eating before going to the theatre so you can fill up and bypass the concession stand.

Head to the Library

If you don’t have a library card, consider heading to your local library to get one. Libraries have a ton of free entertainment you can enjoy, including books, movies, music, and all sorts of fun stuff.

Put the Credit Card Down

Credit cards are a quick and easy way to dig yourself into debt, so by sticking to a cash-based budget, you’ll be able to become more aware of your financial situation, and become more aware of