12 Simple Swaps That Save Me Thousands Every Year

If you’re trying to make your money go further, start with the small stuff. A few easy changes to how you spend or save can really add up. You don’t need a full lifestyle overhaul — just a few tweaks that actually fit your day-to-day.

Switch to Library Perks Instead of Buying Books

Instead of buying books or paying for multiple reading apps, check out what your local library offers. Many now include free access to eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and even digital subscriptions. You can also borrow things like board games, tools, and museum passes. It’s a great way to enjoy entertainment without constantly spending.

Trade Pricey Cleaners for Pantry Staples

Many store-bought cleaners are expensive and full of unnecessary ingredients. I started using white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon for most of my cleaning needs. They work just as well (if not better), and they cost just a few cents per use and doesn’t bring harsh smells or chemicals into the house.

Skip the Gym and Try Free Outdoor Workouts

I used to feel guilty about my unused gym membership. Now, I take walks, do bodyweight workouts at home, and follow free fitness videos online. Parks often have workout stations too. It’s all free, flexible, and easy to stick with.

Use Reusable Bags and Containers

Cutting back on waste isn’t just good for the planet — it helps your budget too. I stopped buying sandwich bags, plastic wrap, and bottled water. Now I use containers and refillable bottles instead. It’s a small switch, but with a busy household, the savings really stack up.

Shop the Perimeter of the Store

I used to wander the aisles and toss way too many extras into my cart. Now I mostly stick to the edges—produce, dairy, meat, and bread. That’s where you’ll find the basics. This helps avoid impulse buys and keeps my cart full of real food instead of overpriced snacks.

Share Streaming Accounts With Family

Instead of paying for multiple streaming services, we now share one or two accounts across the family. Most platforms allow multiple profiles and devices, so it’s easy to split the cost. It’s a small change that cut our entertainment bill in half.

Try To Repair Instead of Replace

I used to toss things as soon as they broke — a toaster, a chair, even clothes with a rip. Now I try to fix them first. A little thread, glue, or a quick online tutorial can make them good as new. It saves money and cuts down on waste.

Sign Up for Store Text Alerts

Instead of jumping at every random sale, I signed up for text alerts from stores I actually shop at. They send out early access deals, coupon codes, and flash sales I’d probably miss otherwise. It’s an easy way to save without getting overwhelmed by junk I don’t need.

Meal Plan Around What You Already Have

Before I make a grocery list, I check what’s already in the pantry and freezer. Then I plan easy meals around what I’ve got. It cuts down on waste, saves money, and keeps dinner from feeling repetitive. Plus, it’s a good way to finally use up those ingredients that have been sitting around too long.

Opt for Energy-Saving Habits

We swapped out old bulbs for LEDs, unplug chargers when not in use, and started washing clothes in cold water. None of it felt like a big deal, but over time, our utility bills noticeably dropped. Small habit changes really do stack up.

Rent or Borrow Instead of Buying

For things we only need once or twice a year—like tools, party supplies, or camping gear—we borrow from friends or rent locally. It keeps clutter down and saves us from buying things we’ll barely use.

Try Meatless Meals a Few Times a Week

Meat is one of the most expensive parts of a grocery bill. Swapping in beans, eggs, or tofu just a few nights a week made a real difference. We didn’t even miss it after a while, and it’s helped keep our food budget in check.

Small Changes, Big Payoff

Most of these changes didn’t feel like sacrifices — they just made sense once I tried them. When you add up the savings over a year, it’s pretty surprising. The key is starting small and adding more as you go. Every little bit really does make a difference.

I’m Frugal, But I’m Happy To Spend Money on These 15 Things

When living a frugal lifestyle, spending money wisely is key. It’s easy to assume frugality means avoiding all unnecessary expenses, but that’s not the case. Instead, frugal people are willing to spend money on the things that matter most to them. Here are 15 things I’m happy to spend more money on because they are important to me and align with my values. I’m Frugal, But I’m Happy To Spend Money on These 15 Things