Sticking to a tight budget can feel limiting. This is especially true if you think you have cut back everywhere you can. But you can find hidden savings in unexpected places in your everyday spending.
Continue reading to discover surprising ways to save money in your budget.
Rent Out Your Parking Space
When you have an unused garage, driveway, or parking spot, rent it to earn money. List it on platforms like Craigslist or Neighbor.com. You can earn around $50-150 per month.
Have a Clothing Swap Party
Get together with friends for a clothing swap party. Everyone brings gently used clothes and accessories they do not wear. You can pick out new-to-you items while socializing. This recycles clothes and saves money.
Cancel Warranties and Protection Plans
Say no to extra warranties or protection plans when buying gadgets and appliances. They rarely pay for themselves, and you can put that money toward your purchase. Only buy extended warranties for big-ticket items prone to issues.
Learn to Give Yourself a Haircut
Haircuts cost around $50-$60 on average in the USA. Cutting your hair can save you that money. Watch online tutorials. Start with just a trim. Go slowly as you get comfortable. Ask a friend for help shaping the back.
Grow Produce in Containers
You do not need land to grow food. Plant tomatoes, greens, and herbs in pots or raised beds. Homegrown produce tastes better. Start small with a few starter plants. Growing your own saves money at harvest time.
Cancel Club Memberships
Review all your club memberships and subscriptions. If you do not use them, cancel them. Each membership canceled is an extra savings.
Learn Simple Home Repairs
Repairing in place of replacing can save you a ton. Watch YouTube videos to learn basic electrical, plumbing, drywall, painting, and DIY fixes. Make minor repairs yourself instead of calling a handyman. Start with easy jobs as you build skills.
Have a No-Spend Week
Challenge yourself to pick a week to buy only actual necessities. Avoid takeouts, online shopping, movies, etc. See how much you can save up. It is easier than you think.
Eat More Plant-Based Meals
Skip meat a few nights a week. Beans, lentils, eggs, pasta, and rice dishes go far. This saves money and helps your health. You will be able to find a lot of tasty meatless recipes on the internet.
Borrow Tools from Neighbors
Before buying a power tool or specialty gadget for a home project, check if a neighbor has one you can borrow. Many people are happy to loan tools they rarely use. This builds community and prevents unnecessary purchases.
Cancel Automatic Renewals
You may have services that auto-renew yearly, like trash pick-up, music streaming, gym memberships, and more. Call and cancel the ones you rarely or no longer need. Then, renew selectively only what you value.
Learn to Give Yourself a Manicure
Standard manicures can cost anywhere between $20-$40. Skip the nail salon and learn to trim and paint your nails at home. You can find sets with everything you need for $10-20. Watch online tutorials. Doing your nails can easily save you $40+ per month.
