Frugal Living

Frugal living may sometimes seem like a pain, but getting into the habit of saving money can add up quickly. The saved money can be invested, help pay off debt, or just be saved. To start off a new life of frugal living, here are some helpful hints to get into the swing of it.

• Buy a used car instead of new.

• Just use one car.

• Buy a used car with a low price, low depreciation, and low expenses.

• Carpool or take public transportation.

• Try to walk or bike when possible.

• Consider train travel instead of air travel.

• Shop around when renting a car.

• Find cheaper accommodations when traveling.

• Find positions that will allow you to telecommute.

• Buy a smaller home and live within your means.

• Rent instead of owning a home if the cost of buying is too much. Money can be saved while renting which can be invested later.

• Find good contractors who provide fixed-price bids for house repairs.

• Make sure to understand all fees and payment involved in a home before agreeing to them.

• Purchase sale items at the store.

• Buy basic ingredients rather than ready-made or pre-packaged items.

• Compare unit prices of similar products.

• Eat out less. Packing lunch and snacks is a good alternative.

• Join a food co-op.

• If eating out, look for discounts or specials in advance.

• Eat sweets or drink alcohol in moderation.

• Instead of drinking juices, teas, or sodas, drink water instead.

• Cook food ahead.

• Eat less meat.

• Try to have a more minimalist wardrobe with pieces that go match well.

• Avoid being in situations where window browsing can happen.

• Stop impulse shopping.

• Only purchase bargain clothing, and only do it when it is necessary.

• Look for any online coupons or promotions that may be available.

• Get rid of cable.

• Use a library card and borrow books and movies.

• Look up free entertainment, for example, days of free admission to a museum.

• Use coupon sites to take advantage of special deals for various activities.

• Cut off a cell phone line.

• Save energy and gas to have lower monthly bills.

• Learn to trim or cut your own hair.

• Wash clothes less frequently and let them air dry.

• Make an attempt to stay healthy as a preventative measure.

• Purchase generic prescriptions whenever possible.