This article may contain affiliate links. See our disclosure policy for more info.

Woman on the phone holding a credit card

Ever wondered where your money goes each month? You may be surprised to find out that some of your everyday habits are slowly eating away at your savings. These seemingly small expenses can add up quickly, leaving you wondering why your wallet feels lighter than expected. Here are 13 habits that are secretely draining your bank account.

Neglecting Price Comparisons

Woman comparing prices in a grocery store
Image Credit: Kaspars Grinvalds via Shutterstock.

Many consumers fail to compare prices before making purchases, which can lead to overspending. Regardless of the item, prices can vary significantly between retailers.

💸 Take Back Control of Your Finances in 2025 💸
Get Instant Access to our free mini course
5 DAYS TO A BETTER BUDGET

Get in the habit of comparing prices online or use apps that help you find the best deals. This small step can lead to substantial savings over time, ensuring you get the most value for your money.

Streaming Service Subscriptions

Hand holding a remote pointing at a TV
Image Credit: Oleg Elkov via Shutterstock.

It’s easy to lose track of all the streaming services you’ve signed up for. A few dollars a month for each might not seem like much, but it adds up quickly if you forget to cancel.

Keep an eye on free trials that automatically convert into paid subscriptions. It’s a common trap and can end up being a sneaky expense. Regularly review your subscriptions and cancel those you rarely use. This way, you can save that money for more important things.

Impulse Shopping

Laptop screen showing Amazon Prime Day deals
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.

Impulse shopping can quickly impact your finances. Those midnight scrolls and unnecessary purchases often leave a noticeable dent in your wallet. Promotions and limited-time offers make it difficult to resist the temptation. Before you know it, you’ve bought items you didn’t really need.

Set spending limits or use apps that monitor your purchases. Also, try unsubscribing from promotional emails to reduce temptation.

Having Food Delivered Too Often

Man delivering UberEats on a bike
Image Credit: Myriam B via Shutterstock.

While the convenience of food delivery services like Uber Eats and Postmates is undeniable, relying on them too frequently can significantly impact your budget. The convenience comes at a cost—delivery fees, service charges, and tips can quickly inflate the price of a meal, often making it much more expensive than dining in or cooking at home.

To curb this expense, consider limiting your use of delivery services to special occasions or busy days. Instead, try meal prepping or cooking simple dishes at home to enjoy fresh, delicious meals without the added costs. This not only saves you money but can also be a healthier option, as you have control over the ingredients you use.

Fancy Gym Memberships

Man and woman doing a crossfit workout in a gym
Image Credit: Wavebreakmedia via Shutterstock.

Gym memberships can silently eat into your monthly budget. Many facilities charge high fees, especially boutique gyms or Crossfit Boxes offering specialized classes or amenities.

If you’re not fully utilizing your membership, it might be worth reconsidering. Alternatives like home workouts, outdoor activities, or community classes could save you money.

Overusing Credit Cards

Person pulling a loyalty rewards card out of their wallet
Image Credit: AndreyPopov via Deposit Photos.

While credit cards can offer convenience and rewards, relying too heavily on them can lead to accumulating debt and high-interest charges. It’s easy to lose track of spending when using plastic instead of cash.

To avoid this, set a budget for credit card usage and stick to it. Consider using cash for everyday purchases to help manage your spending better. Paying off your balance in full each month can also help you avoid interest charges and keep your finances in check.

Frequent Happy Hours

Friends having happy hour drinks at home
Image Credit: DragosCondreaW via Deposit Photos.

Grabbing drinks after work seems harmless, but those frequent happy hours can really add up. Besides the cost of drinks, there’s also the temptation to order snacks or meals that aren’t part of your regular budget. It’s easy to underestimate how much you might spend in a month just by socializing this way.

Consider setting a limit on how many times you go out each week. This can help you save money while still enjoying social time with friends.

Neglecting Home Maintenance

Maintenance man servicing an air conditioning unit
Image Credit: Magsi via Shutterstock.

Ignoring regular home maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the line. Small issues, such as leaky faucets or drafty windows, can escalate into major problems if not addressed promptly, resulting in expensive repair bills.

Establish a routine for home maintenance checks to catch issues early. Investing time and a small amount of money into upkeep can save you significant costs in the long run, ensuring your home remains in good condition without unexpected financial burdens.

Buying New Instead of Used

A young couple purchasing a new car.
Image Credit: Harbucks via Shutterstock.

Purchasing new items, especially things that depreciate in value quickly, can significantly impact your budget. New products often come with a hefty price tag, while gently used items can provide the same quality at a fraction of the cost.

Before making a purchase, consider exploring second-hand options through thrift stores, online marketplaces, or local classifieds. This not only saves you money but also promotes sustainability by giving items a second life.

Luxury Beauty Treatments

Woman getting a spa treatment
Image Credit: New Africa via Shutterstock.

Treating yourself to luxury beauty treatments is tempting, but these can quickly add up. Services like facials, massages, and high-end salon appointments can be expensive.

While they might feel indulgent and relaxing, you might find similar benefits from more budget-friendly options or at-home treatments. Another option is to reduce the frequency of these visits to keep more money in your pocket without sacrificing them completely.

Trendy Fitness Classes

Yoga class filled with people
Image Credit: PeopleImages.com via Deposit Photos.

Splurging on the latest fitness classes can be tempting. It’s easy to sign up for that new spin or barre class. The energy and atmosphere might be exciting, but those class fees add up quickly.

Instead, look for more budget-friendly alternatives. Online workout videos or community classes at your local center are often cheaper. They offer similar benefits without the blow to your budget!

Unused Memberships and Subscriptions

Woman purchasing a subscription on a laptop
Image Credit: Panuwat Phimpha via Shutterstock.

Many people sign up for memberships—whether it’s a book club, a subscription box, or a specialized service—only to forget about them. These recurring fees can accumulate without you even realizing it, draining your finances.

Take the time to review your memberships and subscriptions regularly. Cancel any that you no longer use or that don’t provide enough value. This simple step can free up extra cash for more important expenses or savings.

Not Taking Advantage of Employee Benefits

Employees chatting during a meeting
Image Credit: Fizkes via Shutterstock.

Many employers offer benefits that can save you money, such as gym memberships, transportation subsidies, or discounts on products and services. Failing to utilize these perks means you’re missing out on potential savings.

Review your employee benefits package and take full advantage of what’s available. Engaging with these offerings can help you reduce everyday expenses and enhance your overall financial well-being.

10 Frugal Gift Ideas for the Person Who Has Everything

Woman sitting on couch holding a gift
Image Credit: Syda_Productions via DepositPhotos.

I love LOVE giving gifts but I don’t love busting my budget so I’m always seeking interesting frugal gift ideas that let me feel like I’m giving my loved one a really great gift that they will appreciate but knowing I didn’t break the bank to do so. Never fear…I’m here to help with some awesome – and inexpensive – gift ideas for someone who has everything! 10 Frugal Gift Ideas for the Person Who Has Everything

55 Simple Frugal Living Tips That Will Boost Your Savings in No Time

Woman standing on sidewalk putting money in her wallet
Image Credit: Boryana Manzurova via Shutterstock.

These 55 frugal living hacks will teach you how easy it can be to live frugally and intentionally. Some of these tips will save you some serious money, and some might only save you a few dollars, but those savings, compounded over time, can have a huge impact on your budget. 55 Simple Frugal Living Tips That Will Boost Your Savings in No Time