65 Unique Ways to Save Money during COVID-19

Where to Start When Trying to Save Money

It can seem impossible at times to begin saving money especially if you are in a hard-pressed financial situation but we can assure you it is possible and, well, you have to start somewhere to make progress. We suggest you start with a few small goals to meet every paycheck or every month depending on your bills and debt. Once you see the money adding up in your savings account you will automatically feel better and more motivated to continue cutting back and saving cash. We’ve outlined 65 easy ways to cut back on spending below.

Easy ways to save money fast

1. Make a monthly budget and stick to it
2. Create a savings account for emergencies only
3. Pay your bills with auto-pay to avoid late fees
4. Shop in bulk for toiletries and non-perishable food items like canned and processed foods
5. Open the windows from time-to-time instead of having the AC on full-blast
6. Find free entertainment sources for the kids (movie nights in the park, picnics, hiking on local trails)
7. Get a library membership for renting out books and movies, most libraries even offer digital downloads
8. Eat at home and eat leftovers when possible
9. Get familiar with coupons for restaurants, shopping and splurge items
10. Change your air filters regularly to save up to 15% on heating and cooling bills
11. Shop around online and compare prices on large purchases to make sure you are getting the best deal
12. Keep your showers short and not too hot to save on energy costs - time your showers if you have to
13. Take showers instead of baths since you will use less water and heat this way
14. Keep a coin jar for any extra change you end up accumulating - over time, you can accumulate a lot of money just in change alone
15. Reuse wrapping paper and gift bags
16. Look into online thrift shops and consignment stores for clothing and houseware
17. Pack your lunch for work instead of going out or ordering out which can add up fast
18. Order water instead of soda or pricey drinks at restaurants
19. Split meals at restaurants or takeout with your spouse or friend - American restaurant portions are usually enough for two people anyways
20. Buy generic brands instead of name brands
21. Create a grocery list and meal prep ideas before going to the store to avoid impulse purchases
22. Never grocery shop when hungry because you may end up buying things you don’t need
23. Use less laundry detergent to save on detergent cost - try cutting your usual portion in half
24. Carpool for events with friends and family to save on gas
25. Ride a bike or walk to local places to save on gas costs
26. Plan a fun staycation in your city instead of a remote vacation
27. Refinance your mortgage
28. Cancel any subscriptions you don’t regularly use or benefit from
29. Look into websites like Groupon for savings and deals
30. Sign up for customer rewards programs to save on food and services
31. Don’t turn down freebies you can use - whether it is a free meal, clothing or furniture
32. Buy used or refurbished appliances and electronics instead of brand new
33. Always use in-network medical providers instead of out-of-network when possible
34. Go to the doctor and dentist regularly and continue getting check-ups to prevent unnecessary health or dental issues from arising
35. If you live alone or have a spare room, consider getting a roommate to save on your rent or mortgage payments
36. Look into cheaper work-out options such as low-priced gyms and digital apps that allow you to get good exercise from home
37. Invite friends over for coffee, dinner or a movie night instead of going out to places where you’ll more than likely spend a lot more money
38. Attend free concerts, festivals and events put on by your city for entertainment
39. Look up happy hour specials at your favorite spots if you plan on going out and limit the number of drinks you have
40. Split Uber or Lyft with friends if you are going out and need a ride
41. Pay in cash instead of putting it on a credit card to avoid interest fees
42. Make your own coffee in the mornings instead of stopping in at a coffee shop or drive-thru
43. Learn to make your own cleaning and hygiene products instead of purchasing them - this includes hand sanitizer
44. Watch the game at home instead of a sports bar
45. Get rid of your landline - most folks only need a cellphone these days anyways
46. Go to the matinee movies instead of at night which tend to be more expensive - you can also wait and watch movies through online rentals which are much cheaper
47. Learn how to garden to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs to save on grocery bills
48. Make your own greeting cards for birthdays and special holidays instead of purchasing expensive cards
49. Take your own photos instead of hiring a professional photographer
50. Go vegetarian - eating less meat, in general, saves money on your grocery bills so even going veggie a few nights a week will help
51. Keep up-to-date with pet vaccines to avoid any health issues that could arise
52. Learn how to bathe and groom your pets instead of taking them to an expensive groomer
53. Get crafty with home decor and art for your home instead of spending a lot of money on items you can make yourself
54. Keep receipts for returns and check them after you shop to make sure you aren’t being overcharged
55. Get out in nature more often for entertainment and relaxation
56. Learn to appreciate the things you have vs. the things you do not have
57. Volunteer to help others and as a way to stay busy and to meet people
58. Use energy-efficient light-bulbs which last longer overtime
59. Inform your friends and family that you are now on a budget so you can have their support along the way
60. Ask yourself “Do I really need XYZ?” before you purchase
61. Have a yard sale or sell unused items on Craigslist or at consignment shops
62. Quit smoking! Not only is it unhealthy but it is also an expensive habit
63. Shop your own closet - instead of purchasing new items get reacquainted with what you already own
64. Become less high-maintenance in the beauty department to spend less on products
65. Do a holiday gift exchange with family and your group of friends instead of purchasing gifts for each individual member

Do you have any other good ways that you have cut back spending in general or during the COVID-19 crisis? Let us know so we can add it to our list and remember to stay safe!