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Penny for your thoughts? Not if you’re learning how to live frugally!
Frugal people don’t just pinch pennies. They put them through bootcamp! I’m amazed how they save without giving up their lifestyle.
Lucky for us, I know the secret, and it isn’t abstaining from your spending habits! It all boils down to spending wisely. Besides being aware of what to buy, it’s just as important to know what you shouldn’t be wasting your money on.
Those $5 coffees? Congrats, you just brewed a $2,000 habit! Make it at home and save your wallet (and your brain cells).
That’s just the first thing that comes to mind; there are a lot more!
Read on to learn about the things frugal people never buy. Be glad because your wallet will thank you for it!
PIN THIS: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page for the list of things frugal people never spend on!
1. Brand New Cars
Brand new cars might look super cool at first, but they’re one of the things that lose value very fast. One of the best habits of frugal people is how they opt for secondhand, reliable cars.
As long as it’s in excellent condition and gets them from point A to point B safely, there’s no need for the newest and fanciest model!
2. Branded Products
Generic or store-brand versions often do the job just as well as brand name. When learning how to save money every day, start by checking the everyday products you buy, like pantry staples, medications, or even personal care products!
3. ATM Fees
If there’s a specific frugal living tip almost everyone overlooks, it’s being wary of ATM fees. It’s such a small amount, but if you do it often, you’ll be spending more than you should have.
Avoid fees by using in-network or no-fee banks. If it’s not urgent, wait to withdraw from an affiliated ATM.
4. Coffee Runs
Those coffee runs are all fun and games until you learn that the $5 daily caffeine fix costs almost $2,000 a year! Frugal people never spend their money in cafes. They make their coffee in the comforts of their home!
Say bye to Starbucks and hello to homemade! Trust me, it tastes just as good and costs less than a dollar.
5. Impulse Buys
Impulse buys often go unnoticed—whether it’s candy at checkout or pricey concert tickets just because the artist is popular.
One of the top budgeting hacks is to always wait 24-48 hours before buying anything non-essential. Chances are, you’d have forgotten all about buying it!
6. Pricey Cable Packages
Ever since streaming platforms like Netflix existed, I have barely used my cable package. That’s why it makes sense to cut it out of your monthly expenses!
Use library DVDs, YouTube, or streaming sites for entertainment. For news, your phone and the Internet do the job!
7. Trendy Fashion
I used to always want to shop for the most popular outfits of the season. That is until I realized how fast trends come and go!
If you need clothes, pick timeless, durable pieces. Even better—swap closets with family or friends for free outfits!
8. Meal Delivery Apps
Sometimes I just want to give up and order takeout. After a long day of work, I know you feel the same!
Well, one of the best ways to cut expenses is to avoid spending so much on meal delivery apps, where you’ll have to pay extra fees and tips! That’s why I suggest cooking at home and meal prepping, so you’re ready for those lazy nights.
9. Bottled Water
If there’s one propaganda I’m NOT falling for, it’s spending money on bottled water! Whether I’m traveling or running errands in town, I always bring a reusable bottle that I can refill with filtered tap water.
That way, I’m not spending $2-5 on bottles of water! Not only do I save money, but I’m also helping the environment!
10. New Furniture
I’m not saying that frugal people live in a completely bare home! Rather, they choose to save by going for high-quality secondhand pieces at more affordable prices.
Score amazing and almost-new furniture if you know where to look! Check out Facebook Marketplace or your local thrift shops and estate sales.
11. Upgraded Tech
It’s tempting to get the new iPhone every year, but listen to my naggy voice in your head telling you NO!
If your phone, laptop, camera, or any gadget works perfectly fine, you do NOT need to upgrade. The hard truth: New models aren’t much different. Many frugal people even prefer older ones for durability and function!
12. Trendy Home Décor
Just like fashion, trendy home decor slowly loses its charm and can feel cringey over time. If you’re investing in decor, prioritize function and quality. Classy pieces and neutral colors never go out of style!
13. New Books
Bibliophiles, I get that reading a physical book is such a better experience, but there are ways you can save money without sacrificing your love of reading!
Besides free eBooks, borrow your favorite books from libraries or purchase from secondhand shops for cheaper prices.
14. Single-Use Gadgets
Handy gadgets like garlic crushers and popcorn poppers look cool, but these are small expenses that add up in the long run! Not only that, but they’ll likely just be part of the house clutter.
So, if you plan to buy something that only does one thing, might as well skip it!
15. High-Interest Debt
Ever wondered why frugal people always pay their credit card bills in full and on time? I mean, there’s a minimum balance due for a reason!
Paying only the minimum is a big no-no. High interest will come for you fast! Skip the extra costs by paying your full balance each time.
16. Overpriced Cleaning Products
Cleaning products are a must, but you don’t need them all, especially overpriced items with hundreds of claims!
You’d be surprised how well vinegar and baking soda handle most cleaning jobs—from tough stains to bad odors. Plus, they’re super cheap!
17. Fancy Salon Treatments
I like to treat myself to a spa day once in a while, but I try not to make it a regular thing. Haircuts, manicures, and facials at fancy salons sometimes cost hundreds of dollars, and that’s excluding tips!
Going DIY saves you a significant amount of money each year! Choose to do your own manicures, at-home hair coloring, and use face masks over facials.
18. Hotel Minibars
Please don’t tell me I’m the only one who audibly gasps at hotel minibar prices. No way I’m paying $10 for a soda I can grab for way less at a nearby convenience store!
Or better yet, skip spending on snacks by purchasing from the grocery store before a trip.
19. Basic Pet Grooming
For major pet grooming needs, it’s always best to head to a professional. That said, it’s possible to do most of the basics at home with a little help from YouTube!
Brushing fur and trimming your pet’s nails already costs up to $20, which is possible to do yourself. It also saves you time and money bringing your furry friend to the groomer.
20. Random Gifts
I’m all about treating ourselves and those we love, but we shouldn’t always be spending oodles of money for “just because” gifts!
If your love language is giving gifts, you can still show love without overspending. Thoughtful, homemade treats like handwritten cards or fresh cookies will melt hearts just the same!
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