10 Simple Habits That Will Save You Money Everyday

Surprised young woman with laptop and flying money at home

Saving money is a priority for many people, but it can be challenging to know where to start. However, simple daily habits can help you save money and achieve your financial goals.

This post will discuss ten simple habits that can help you save money daily.

#1 Plan Your Meals.

Smiling adult housewife holding jug of orange juice and looking at the camera.
Image Credit: EdZbarzhyvetsky /Depositphotos.com.

According to a Natural Resources Defense Council study, American households waste 25% of the food and drinks they buy. That’s worth a staggering total of $165 billion each year.

Planning your meals is a simple yet effective way to save money. By taking the time to plan out your meals for the week, you can avoid impulse purchases at the grocery store and waste less food.

Additionally, planning your meals can help you make healthier choices and eat out less frequently, saving you money in the long run.

With meal planning, you can also take advantage of sales and promotions to save even more money. Whether you use a meal planning app or simply write out your meals for the week, taking the time to plan can help you save money and eat healthier.

#2 Use Coupons and Discounts.

A discount % in zombie hand.
Image Credit: mastaka /Depositphotos.com.

Using coupons and discounts can be an effective way to save money on everyday expenses like groceries, household items, and other purchases. These discounts can often be found through various sources, such as newspapers, online, and retailer loyalty programs.

However, it’s important to use coupons and discounts wisely. Refrain from buying items just because you have a coupon or discount, as this can lead to unnecessary spending. Instead, look for discounts on items you would typically purchase and only use them when it makes financial sense.

#3 Buy Generic.

3D rendering with closeup on supermarket shelves with blank templates cans.
Image Credit: viperagp /Depositphotos.com.

When shopping, choosing generic alternatives to name-brand items can be a great way to save money.

Some people may be hesitant to try generic products, thinking that they are inferior in quality or taste. However, this is often not the case. Many generic products are made by the same companies that produce name-brand items and are simply labeled differently. In some cases, generic products may even be better than name-brand items, as they may have fewer additives and preservatives.

When shopping for generic products, compare prices and check the ingredients or product information to ensure that it meets your needs.

#4 Use Cashback Apps.

Portrait of a happy young blonde woman in sweater showing money banknotes isolated over blue background
Image Credit: Vadymvdrobot /Depositphotos.com.

Using cashback apps is a simple and easy habit that can help you save money on your purchases. With just a few clicks on your phone, you can earn cash back on the items you buy every day.

Cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta are popular choices, allowing you to earn cash back on everything from groceries to clothing to travel bookings.

Using cashback apps can also help you discover new products and retailers that you may not have tried before. With the added incentive of earning cash back, you can explore new brands and products without breaking the bank.

To get the most out of cashback apps, it’s essential to use them regularly and be strategic in your purchases. Look for deals and offers that align with your needs and preferences, and redeem your cash-back rewards promptly.

#5 Drink Water.

Glass cup and jug of cold water on a silver tray next to pool
Image Credit: ImageSupply /Depositphotos.com.

Choosing water instead of buying expensive drinks like coffee or soda is a simple but effective habit that can help you save money over time.

Drinking water is not only free, but it’s also better for your health than sugary or caffeinated drinks. Plus, it’s widely available, whether at home or on the go, so you can easily avoid the expense of buying drinks when you’re out and about.

If you’re used to buying expensive drinks daily, switching to water may seem difficult at first. However, with time, it can become a habit that you don’t even think about. And if you find plain water too bland, you can add a slice of lemon or lime for flavor.

#6 Turn off Lights and Electronics.

Everyone needs something from me today. a young businesswoman feeling stressed out in a demanding office environment at work
Image Credit: PeopleImages.com /Depositphotos.com.

According to Energy Star, turning off your computer when you’re not using it can save you up to $75 per year. Using energy-efficient light bulbs can also help you save money on your energy bill.

Turning off lights and electronics when not in use is a simple habit that can help save money on energy bills. Many people often leave lights and electronics on when they are not using them, which can add up to high costs over time.

Additionally, turning off electronics when not in use can help extend their lifespan and reduce the need for replacements, saving money in the long run. To make this habit even easier, consider using power strips that can be turned off with one switch, making it easy to turn off multiple electronics at once.

#7 Use Public Transportation or Carpool.

A young man sitting in a bus on the phone.
Image Credit: AllaSerebrina /Depositphotos.com.

Driving alone can be expensive, as it requires you to pay for gas, maintenance, and parking. However, you can reduce these costs by using public transportation or carpooling with coworkers.

Public transportation is typically cheaper than driving, as it allows you to split the cost of transportation with other passengers. Additionally, many cities offer discounted fares for students and seniors, making it an affordable option for many people.

Carpooling is also a great way to save money, as it allows you to split the cost of gas and maintenance with other passengers. This not only helps you save money, but it’s also better for the environment, as it reduces the number of cars on the road.

#8 Shop at Thrift Stores.

close up of a hand, looking on a flea market for clothes.
Image Credit: narimbur /Depositphotos.com.

Thrift stores offer a wide range of gently used items, such as clothing, shoes, household items, and furniture, at affordable prices. Many thrift stores also support charitable causes, so not only are you saving money, but you’re also contributing to a good cause.

Shopping at thrift stores is an eco-friendly option, as it reduces waste by giving pre-owned items a new life. Thrift store shopping can also be a fun and unique experience, as you never know what treasures you might find.

#9 Pack Your Lunch.

eating colorful vietnamese pho bo with chopsticks from top down view
Image Credit: resnick_joshua1 /Depositphotos.com.

Eating out daily for lunch can quickly add up, and you may not even realize how much you’re spending. By packing your lunch, you can control what you’re eating and save money simultaneously. Plus, you can use this opportunity to make healthier food choices.

Not only can packing your lunch save you money, but it can also save you time. Instead of waiting in long lines at restaurants, you can quickly grab your homemade lunch and enjoy it wherever you want. Plus, you won’t have to worry about finding a good place to eat or deciding what to order.

#10 Avoid Impulse Purchases.

Male hand holds wallet with US 100 Dollar bills inside
Image Credit: Gesrey /Depositphotos.com.

When we make purchases without careful consideration, we often buy things we don’t need or items we could have found for a better price elsewhere.

Making a shopping list before heading out to the store and sticking to it can help curb impulse purchases. It’s also important to ask ourselves if we really need an item or if it’s just something we want now.

Delaying gratification can be difficult but can also help us avoid unnecessary spending. Additionally, it’s a good idea to take some time to research items before making a purchase, comparing prices, and reading reviews.

You Can Save Money Every Day.

How To Earn Money Online for Students - Image of young excited shocked woman looking at money which someone gives to her isolated over red background.
Image Credit: Vadymvdrobot /Depositphotos.com.

Implementing the ten simple habits discussed above can help you save money daily. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in your financial situation and help you achieve your short and long-term goals.

Featured Image Credit: serezniy /Depositphotos.com.

This article originally appeared on Ash & Pri.

Like our content? Be sure to follow us.

DISCLOSURE: The post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy. This site is not intending to provide financial advice. This is for entertainment only.

Kristian Borghesan

Kristian is an experienced marketing leader who has helped multiple fintech startups scale their marketing over the past few years. He is currently the Director of Marketing at Future Vault an online digital vault where advisors and their clients can securely share documents and communicate.