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Skipping certain purchases can make a big difference in your budget. Those who save the most often have habits that go unnoticed by others. Want to spot where the real savings hide? Here are some places where smart spenders hold onto their cash.

Extended Warranties at Checkout

Red pencil writing on a warranty paper
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Extended warranty offers come up at the checkout every time. People who are careful with money usually skip them without a second thought. Most products work fine without paying for extra coverage. Trust what you buy, use the standard warranty, and keep that extra cash for something you really need.

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Overpriced Greeting Cards

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Paying six dollars for a greeting card doesn’t make sense when it ends up in the trash. Savvy savers get creative—they’ll make a card, write a thoughtful note, or send a kind text instead. The message matters more than pricey paper, so keep your money for something that lasts.

Latest Fitness Fads

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New fitness classes and paid workout apps are everywhere, but you don’t need them to get active. Walking in the park or stretching at home can do the job for free. Why spend money on group classes when YouTube workouts are always available? You can keep moving and save money too.

Disposable Party Supplies

Party table filled with party supplies and flowers
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Party balloons and themed plates are fun and festive, but they end up in the trash almost right away. People who like to save money use what they have, borrow, or get creative with simple supplies. Keeping events budget-friendly means less waste and more cash for what matters.

Daily Food Delivery

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Ordering takeout night after night gets expensive. If you want to save, cook larger portions, freeze leftovers, and use what’s already in your fridge. Meals at home often taste better and help you spend less. Simple recipes stretch your budget and still keep dinner interesting.

Designer Sunglasses

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Spending a lot on name-brand sunglasses doesn’t make sense when it’s so easy to lose them. People who like to save money pick up cheaper pairs and worry less if they get lost or broken. Choosing affordable sunglasses means you don’t have to stress when they go missing—especially on busy days out.

Travel Souvenirs From Gift Shops

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Those little shops at airports and hotels fill their shelves with souvenirs, but the prices are never a bargain. Instead of buying another magnet or toy, some travelers stick to photos or hang on to a ticket stub for the memory. You don’t need to spend money on gifts to remember a great trip.

Bottled Water When Out

Rows of plastic water bottles
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Why pay for drinks you can bring from home? Grabbing your own water bottle cuts out pricey stops at the store, even when you’re on the road. Just refill as you go and skip paying for tap water over and over. It’s simple, saves cash, and keeps you hydrated wherever you are.

Multiple Streaming Subscriptions

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Signing up for every streaming service gets expensive fast. If you want to save, stick with one, share with family, or swap with a friend if it’s allowed. Watch what you’ve got before adding more. And remember, those old DVDs still work when you want something different.

Keep Your Cash and Your Cool

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You don’t have to buy what everyone else buys. That’s what makes a frugal life actually fun—saying no, getting creative, and saving for things you really want. Everyone has different rules, but holding onto your cash makes room for more of what you actually care about.

15 Ways to Save Big That Most People Think Are Too Extreme

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Some savings strategies seem a little over the top at first, but they can seriously transform your personal finances. While most people overlook these methods due to misconceptions or discomfort, they can make a huge difference if you give them a chance. If you’re ready to rethink the way you handle money, check out these unconventional yet effective tips. 15 Ways to Save Big That Most People Think Are Too Extreme