21 Things We Stopped Buying To Save Money (2024)

Stopped Buying To Save Money

When you are cutting your spending to save money you truly have to look at what you are buying! Initially, before our debt reduction we would be brand specific. We would eat out several times a week. Learn what we stopped buying to save money.

Overspending

I would hit up the coffee shop for a latté two or three times a week. We simply just weren’t watching what we were buying.

Family Finance And Saving Money

As a family we took a serious look at our finances and assessed where we wanted to be in the future. Our lives changed when we bought The Total Money Makeoverby Dave Ramsey.

Cutting Spending Learning To Budget

As a couple we attended Financial Peace Universityand learned where we were faulting in our budgeting and our spending.

If you need to get your finances, money and budgeting in check Financial Peace University is a great place to start.

Super busy and short on time. Pin this article for later. Click here.

Overspending Money

We took a long hard look at what we were spending money on and I was surprised at the change it made in our budget and how much we were saving with just a few changes.

How To Save Money

You can save huge amounts of money by making simple frugal choices in what you spend your money on. Below we list off 21 things we stopped buying to save money.

Related Money Saving Tips:

  • Thrifty Guide: 50 Frugal Tips
  • 7 Money Saving Starbucks Hacks
  • Secret Must Haves of a Frugal Home

Being Smart With Money

Budgeting, couponing, living well on less, meal planning will all help you save money. Essentially being smart with your money and choosing the best option to make your money work the hardest is how you will save more cash.

Practical Ways To Save Money

Simple ways to save money are frugal tips you can incorporate into your daily life that aren’t hard. Simple choices that make a big impact.

Example Of Easy Ways To Cut Spending And Save Money

Some examples of practical ways to save money might be grocery shopping on a budget at a discount retailer, meal planning to include a few meatless meals, learning to cut back and choose cheaper entertainment or packing your coffee, water or lunch to go. Brown bagging and home cooking are by far the most practical money savers yet.

Things I No Longer Buy

Below you are going to see a list of things we as a family stopped buying. But here is a glimpse of things I no longer buy:

Things You Can Live Without

When you really look at where you are spending all your money you can easily come up with a list of things you can live without.

Saving Money On Coffee

I have a Keurig coffee machine and I don’t buy single use Keurig pods? I am hands down a coffee drinker, so is my husband but we get more coffee for our dollar if we buy a pound of our favorite coffee and use reusable Keurig pods. This is one way we save a ton of money each month.

Things You Don’t Need To Buy

As humans we like things, we like food, we like stuff. If you need to save money I am sure you can think of things you don’t need to buy.

Back to my coffee note above. We drink a lot of it in our house. And yes we do the occasional coffee shop run. But we really don’t “need” to we have the coffee at home and here are 21 amazing Starbucks copycat recipes that help save us the money.

21 Things We Stopped Buying To Save Money

1. We stopped being brand specific with most of our groceries and relied on store sales and coupons to guide our purchases.

We also stopped impulse shopping, or last minute “let’s have this for dinner” shopping. Now we meal plan and it is life saver and an amazing money saver.

2. I will say we are brand specific to a few things. Such as TRESemme hair care products, I have naturally curly hair and I find their hair care products work great.

I have also bought the same moisturizer for all of my adult life. Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel is multi-faceted in uses such as body lotion, sunburn cream, shave gel, hair gel and first aid gel. I simply love the stuff.

We are a Celiac household so we are brand specific to a few gluten free companies such as Udi’sand Skinny Pop Popcorn.

3. We stopped eating out so much. When you add up eating out for a family of three, two or three times a week the bill could be somewhere close to $150 to $200 for a week. This is when I started meal planning.

4. I stopped buying deli meat and sandwich supplies for my husbands lunch for a few reasons. One they weren’t being eaten so the food was going to waste.

Two we purchased him an oven lunch box and this thing rocks. I can send leftovers or soups or chili and he can have a toasty warm lunch on the road. No more cold wasted sandwiches, just warm yummy lunches.

This helps use up the leftovers and decrease the food waste, which essentially is money wasted.

5. I stopped buying my coffee to go in the morning so did my husband. We invested in a great coffee maker, reusable filters and stainless steel coffee mugs. We are now saving $10+ a day.

6. We stopped buying reusable plastic containers and switched over to glass food storage, jars and stainless steel lunch containers. We switched to long term reusable lunch and food storage and we love it.

I stopped buying individual meat portions and food portions. I started buying bulk, farm to table portions. I invested in creating relationships with our local farmers markets, bulk buy locations and invested in food division and storage.

7. We stopped impulse shopping and learned to say “NO”. We planned, wrote lists and stuck to our budget.

Super busy and short on time. Pin this article for later. Click here.

Related Money Saving Posts:

  • 500+ Money Saving Tips
  • Stop Living Paycheck To Paycheck
  • The Must Have Essentials Of A Frugal Home

8. We decreased our mainstream big box shopping for appliances, books, toys and etc. We learned to look for sales, shopping online on Amazon, Craigslist, ebay and at local thrift stores.

9. We stopped buying stuff to impress people and started buying the things we need.

10. I stopped purchasing paper napkins and limited our other paper cleaning supplies. We switched to cloth napkins and cloth cleaning cloths.

11. I stopped buying small bottles of things we use regularly like shampoo, conditioner, ketchup and hand soap. We buy these in bulk and refill our current containers. This saves money and waste.

12. We stopped over buying food, there was so much food waste. Even though we were composting our food waste, we were basically throwing out money in the food we weren’t eating. Now we meal plan, we eat or freeze our leftovers and we freeze soup stock related foods.

13. I stopped buying smoothie additives. I was buying protein powder, greens powder, maca powder and much more. I researched a dairy free protein powder that met my needs and I now purchase Vega One for my early morning smoothie.

14. We stopped buying store bought cleaners, a little bit of vinegar and water will go a long way. You can learn more about frugal cleaners here.

15. In general we stopped buying “stuff”. We learned to live with less.

16. I stopped buying dryer sheets and invested in dryer balls.

17. The whole family stopped buying stuff at full price when we could. We shopped sales, thrift stores, bulk buys and used coupons.

18. I stopped my magazine subscriptions which was a huge savings.

19 & 20. I stopped buying store bought dried fruit, applesauce and canned pears. Instead we dried our own fruit in season and canned vanilla pears and fresh applesauce during harvest season.

21. We decreased our entertainment spending, instead opting for No Spend Weekends.

Cutting back on your regular spending. Shopping sales, using coupons, truly looking at what you are spending money on. Using a budget, shopping wisely with a frugal mindset will help you save money.

⭐Amazing Products We Think Everyone Should Try:

All these amazing products help us save money on a daily basis.

Why Cut Spending To Save Money

Simple answer so you can do more with what you have. Saving money will also help you pay down debt, save for your future, invest, buy a home and so much more.

Why Do We Buy Things We Don’t Need

There are a million and one answers to this question and honestly most times we buy things we don’t need because we thought it would make our life easier or make us feel better.

Ways To Save More Money

Saving money will give you more options. You can buy the name brand instead of the generic. Or you can take the family on a vacation knowing you won’t go into debt.

Super busy and short on time. Pin this article for later. Click here.

Smart Money Shopping Choices

Saving money is about planning and making smart money choices. Like living well on less. Shopping generic discount grocery stores and sales to save money.

Simple Money Saving Tips

Simple things you can do today to save money. Start by asking yourself do you really need it? Can you do without it.

If you brown bagged your lunch this week how much would you save? If you turned down the thermostat how much would you lower your utility costs? Simple easy changes with big results.

Frugal Tips That Will Help You Save Money

Frugal living is about making smart choices with your money and learning to live well on less. Discover what frugal tips will help you save more money. Here are 75 super frugal tips that are guaranteed to help you lower your household expenses.

How To Start Budgeting And Saving Money

Setting up a budget and saving money is super easy. You can enroll in our 21 Days of Saving Challenge to help get you started. Dave Ramsey is another great resource on debt, budgeting and saving money.

Setting aside some time today can help you save a ton of money for tomorrow.

Related Money Saving Articles:

  • 7 Money Saving Starbucks Hacks

  • 75 Super Frugal Money Saving Tips

  • Frugal Living Surviving On One Income

♥ More About Saving & Simplicity

Welcome! I am so glad you are here I am Cynthia, primary frugal mom blogger at Saving & Simplicity.

Where you will find frugal, money saving posts and articles along with DIY projects, Cheap & Easy Recipes and so much more.

.

Find Saving & Simplicity: Pinterest, Facebook& Instagram

CREATE the life you want and learn to live more frugally living.

Try Amazon Prime For 30-Days FREE

Try Audible Plus For FREE

Shop a few of our favorite things

Updated: June 9, 2023

21 Things We Stopped Buying To Save Money (7)

21 Things We Stopped Buying To Save Money

21 Things We Stopped Buying To Save Money (2024)

FAQs

What can I avoid to save money? ›

Here are seven money-saving barriers — plus advice on how to knock each of them down.
  • Spending too much on housing. ...
  • No defined budget. ...
  • The “I'll save when I make more money” mindset. ...
  • Lack of a measurable savings goal. ...
  • Student loan payments. ...
  • Your comfort zone. ...
  • Overusing credit cards.

How do I stop buying and saving money? ›

How to Stop Spending Money
  1. Know what you're spending money on. ...
  2. Make your budget work for you. ...
  3. Shop with a goal in mind. ...
  4. Stop spending money at restaurants. ...
  5. Resist sales. ...
  6. Swear off debt. ...
  7. Delay gratification. ...
  8. Challenge yourself to reach your new goals.
May 31, 2024

Why do we fail to save money? ›

One of the primary reasons people fail to save money is the need for more financial education. Many individuals are not adequately taught about budgeting, saving, or investing from a young age. With the necessary knowledge and skills, people may find it easier to create a realistic budget and save consistently.

How can I save money so I don't spend it? ›

Here are some ideas to help you stop spending money and build healthier financial habits:
  1. Create a Budget. ...
  2. Visualize What You're Saving For.
  3. Always Shop with a List. ...
  4. Nix the Brand Names. ...
  5. Master Meal Prep.
  6. Consider Cash for In-store Shopping. ...
  7. Remove Temptation.
  8. Hit “Pause"
Jul 10, 2024

What is the 30 day rule? ›

The premise of the 30-day savings rule is straightforward: When faced with the temptation of an impulse purchase, wait 30 days before committing to the buy. During this time, take the opportunity to evaluate the necessity and impact of the purchase on your overall financial goals.

What is the 50/30/20 rule? ›

The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

What should I stop spending money on? ›

If you're looking for ways to trim your expenses, here's a list of 50 common money-wasters you may want to ditch.
  • ATM Fees. Paying for ATM fees is like feeding your money into a paper shredder. ...
  • Bottled Water. ...
  • Bulk Groceries. ...
  • Cell Phone Data. ...
  • Coffee. ...
  • Fancy Gadgets. ...
  • Flavored Beverages. ...
  • Gasoline.
May 9, 2017

What is the uncontrollable urge to spend money? ›

Compulsive spending - which is also known as oniomania, shopping addiction and pathological buying - is when a person feels an uncontrollable need to shop and spend, either for themselves or others.

Why do poor people save money? ›

Savings and credit make a difference because income is more volatile for those hovering around the poverty line. Low-income families usually work in low-wage and temporary jobs, making them more susceptible to reduced hours and layoffs.

What is the #1 reason why people struggle to save money? ›

One of the most common reasons is that you might not have a good enough reason to save. Maybe you're overly focused on the present, or maybe you simply don't know what you want in the future. Either way, you need to get a vision for what you want to achieve with your money.

What is a common mistake when saving? ›

Not having enough money saved in an emergency fund: An emergency fund is designed to provide a cushion for your finances to cover unexpected expenses – up to six months' worth.

How to live on very little money? ›

Tips to help you live below your means
  1. Create a plan for your money. The act of assigning a job for every dollar can be empowering. ...
  2. Automate your savings. ...
  3. Pay yourself. ...
  4. Live off one income if possible. ...
  5. Look for ways to lower your discretionary expenses. ...
  6. Reflect on your financial habits. ...
  7. Drive used. ...
  8. Pay less interest.
Jul 10, 2024

How much should I save per month? ›

For many people, the 50/30/20 rule is a great way to split up monthly income. This budgeting rule states that you should allocate 50 percent of your monthly income for essentials (such as housing, groceries and gas), 30 percent for wants and 20 percent for savings.

How to aggressively save money? ›

Make a budget.
  1. Set a savings goal. ...
  2. Set up direct deposits to go into savings. ...
  3. Buy generic. ...
  4. Stay out of “that store.” ...
  5. Cancel some subscriptions and memberships. ...
  6. Join gas rewards programs. ...
  7. Meal plan. ...
  8. Use cash-back apps and coupons.
Jun 13, 2024

What is the 10 rule for saving money? ›

Key Takeaways:

The 60/30/10 budgeting method says you should put 60% of your monthly income toward your needs, 30% towards your wants and 10% towards your savings. It's trending as an alternative to the longer-standing 50/30/20 method. Experts warn that putting just 10% of your income into savings may not be enough.

What is the safest thing to have your money in? ›

Here are the best low-risk investments in July 2024:
  • High-yield savings accounts.
  • Money market funds.
  • Short-term certificates of deposit.
  • Series I savings bonds.
  • Treasury bills, notes, bonds and TIPS.
  • Corporate bonds.
  • Dividend-paying stocks.
  • Preferred stocks.
Jul 15, 2024

How can I save $1,000? ›

Financial expert Dave Ramsey has a lot of ideas on the subject, and here are some of the most practical ways to save your first $1,000 quickly.
  1. Cancel Subscriptions. ...
  2. Bring Your Own Lunch. ...
  3. Avoid Coffee Out. ...
  4. Re-Sell Old Items. ...
  5. Shop at Cheaper Grocery Stores With Rewards Programs. ...
  6. Buy Generic. ...
  7. Join a Carpool.
Dec 28, 2023

What is the best thing to save money for? ›

  • Emergency fund. Nearly a quarter of savers who take the America Saves pledge chose “emergency savings” as their first wealth-building goal.
  • Large Purchase. ...
  • Car. ...
  • Vacation. ...
  • Retirement. ...
  • Debt Repayment. ...
  • Education. ...
  • Homeownership.

Top Articles
How To Find The Best Umbrella Insurance Companies
Find Free Unclaimed Money In Your State (Plus 9 other Ways To Get Free Money) | Dr. Breathe Easy Finance
Northern Counties Soccer Association Nj
Nybe Business Id
My Boyfriend Has No Money And I Pay For Everything
Victoria Secret Comenity Easy Pay
Max 80 Orl
LeBron James comes out on fire, scores first 16 points for Cavaliers in Game 2 vs. Pacers
The Rise of Breckie Hill: How She Became a Social Media Star | Entertainment
Ella Eats
Ree Marie Centerfold
Socket Exception Dunkin
Alaska: Lockruf der Wildnis
What is Cyber Big Game Hunting? - CrowdStrike
Craigslist List Albuquerque: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying, Selling, and Finding Everything - First Republic Craigslist
Spergo Net Worth 2022
Gemita Alvarez Desnuda
Popular Chinese Restaurant in Rome Closing After 37 Years
Mc Donald's Bruck - Fast-Food-Restaurant
Xsensual Portland
Apartments / Housing For Rent near Lake Placid, FL - craigslist
Lexus Credit Card Login
Wood Chipper Rental Menards
Soul Eater Resonance Wavelength Tier List
Dr. Nicole Arcy Dvm Married To Husband
Webworx Call Management
Nk 1399
Enduring Word John 15
How do you get noble pursuit?
Unreasonable Zen Riddle Crossword
Frank Vascellaro
Gncc Live Timing And Scoring
Helpers Needed At Once Bug Fables
A Plus Nails Stewartville Mn
Ofw Pinoy Channel Su
47 Orchid Varieties: Different Types of Orchids (With Pictures)
Hair Love Salon Bradley Beach
Umiami Sorority Rankings
Eleceed Mangaowl
Myfxbook Historical Data
Mixer grinder buying guide: Everything you need to know before choosing between a traditional and bullet mixer grinder
Orion Nebula: Facts about Earth’s nearest stellar nursery
Riverton Wyoming Craigslist
Firestone Batteries Prices
How Big Is 776 000 Acres On A Map
Senior Houses For Sale Near Me
Theater X Orange Heights Florida
10 Bedroom Airbnb Kissimmee Fl
Rocket Bot Royale Unblocked Games 66
Cheryl Mchenry Retirement
Les BABAS EXOTIQUES façon Amaury Guichon
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Delena Feil

Last Updated:

Views: 6240

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (45 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Delena Feil

Birthday: 1998-08-29

Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

Phone: +99513241752844

Job: Design Supervisor

Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.