Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun or giving up life’s little pleasures entirely. With a few mindful changes in your habits and routines, you can boost your bank account and say goodbye to unnecessary expenses. To help, we created a list of easy, actionable tips to help you save money.
Here are 10 easy ways to save hundreds—even thousands—over the next year:
1. Skip the Daily Coffee Shop Run ($1,825/year)
We know—there’s something magical about that morning latte. But spending $5 daily on coffee adds up fast. Try brewing your coffee at home instead. A decent bag of coffee beans runs around $10–$15 and lasts weeks. You could save up to $1,825 every year without giving up caffeine!
2. Cancel Unused Subscriptions ($240–$600/year)
Are you still paying for that streaming service you never watch? Or maybe a gym membership that hasn't seen you since January? On average, subscriptions cost $20–$50 per month. Canceling unused ones could free up $240 to $600 a year.
Pro tip: Use subscription trackers like Truebill or Rocket Money to spot sneaky charges.
3. Cook at Home More Often ($2,000/year)
Dining out or ordering takeout several times a week can take a bite out of your budget. If your average meal costs $15, that’s $45 per day for just a few meals. Cooking at home can slash your food bill by half, saving you up to $2,000 annually. Bonus: You’ll probably eat healthier too!
Pro tip: When you do go out to eat, skip the costly drinks. Just one cocktail or mocktail can easily cost $10 to $15, and one drink can easily become two. Once you add in tax and tip, a dinner for two could quickly cost nearly $100 more.
4. Embrace Secondhand Shopping ($500+/year)
Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and vintage shops are treasure troves for affordable fashion and furniture. Instead of dropping $100 on a new jacket, why not score a gently used one for $30? You could save hundreds each year without sacrificing style.
5. Use Public Transportation or Carpool ($1,000/year)
Driving comes with costs—gas, insurance, parking, and maintenance. If you spend $100 per week commuting, consider switching to public transit or joining a carpool. You could save over $1,000 annually, all while reducing your carbon footprint.
6. DIY Your Entertainment ($500+/year)
Rather than spending $20-$30 every weekend at the movies or concerts, get creative with free or low-cost activities. Host game nights, explore local parks, or attend community events. Cutting just two pricey outings per month could save you $500 or more annually.
7. Buy in Bulk ($300–$600/year)
Non-perishable staples like rice, pasta, and cleaning supplies are often cheaper when purchased in bulk. Plus, you’ll make fewer trips to the store. By shopping smart, you could shave off $300–$600 from your grocery bills each year.
8. Master the Art of Budgeting ($Unlimited Savings!)
This one’s a game-changer. Apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget) help you track spending and set financial goals. Knowing exactly where your money goes is the first step to saving big.
9. Use Coupon Apps for Extra Cash Back
Want a free and easy way to earn extra money all year long? Apps like Rakuten offer cashback when you shop online at partnered stores. It’s as simple as activating the cashback offer before you shop. On average, Rakuten users earn around $100–$250 per year—money you’d otherwise leave on the table. Talk about effortless savings.
10. Shop Around for Better Auto Insurance Rates
If you have an auto insurance policy, chances are, you are like millions of others who stick with the same provider for years, not realizing they could save hundreds just by shopping around. Comparison tools like The Zebra or Gabi make it simple to explore multiple quotes within minutes. The best part? You can often find a more affordable plan without sacrificing coverage quality.
On average, drivers save around $500–$700 per year by switching to a more competitive provider. That’s money you could use for groceries, savings, or even a weekend getaway! Don't wait—start comparing to uncover big savings today.
Small Changes, Big Results
When you add up these strategies, you could save thousands of dollars per year! Start with one or two tips that fit your lifestyle best and watch your savings grow. Remember: It’s not about deprivation—it’s about being intentional with your money.
With a little effort today, you’ll be thanking yourself tomorrow! 💸