If you're looking to save a little extra this year without giving up the things you love, you're in the right place! Frugal living is all about finding joy in the simple things, getting creative with what you already have, and spending mindfully. Here are 20 ways to keep more cash in your pocket, all while enjoying a stylish, fulfilling life. Let's get into it!

1. Master Meal Planning

Start by planning your meals around ingredients you already have and weekly store specials. Create a basic list of recipes you enjoy, then rotate them based on what’s fresh and on sale. When you cook at home, you can stretch meals by cooking in larger portions and freezing extras, or repurposing leftovers for different meals.

2. Start a Capsule Wardrobe

Building a capsule wardrobe is about investing in fewer, high-quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly. Try sticking to neutral colors and timeless cuts that won’t go out of style. Add a few pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a tailored blazer or a classic black dress. Not only will it simplify getting dressed, but it also prevents you from buying on-trend items you’ll only wear a few times.

If you need help getting started, check out these posts:

3. DIY Home Decor

If you’re craving a home refresh, try thrift shopping or repurposing items you already own. Painting an old piece of furniture, framing art or photos, or adding plants are inexpensive ways to revamp your space. You could even try making DIY wall hangings or table centerpieces for a unique touch.

4. Stick to a Grocery List

Make a list based on your meal plan and check your pantry before shopping to avoid buying duplicates. Challenge yourself to stay disciplined at the store by sticking to your list. A tip? Avoid shopping when you’re hungry—impulse buys often happen when you’re craving snacks.

5. Limit Subscriptions and Streaming Services

Go through your subscriptions and ask if you’re using each one enough to justify the cost. If you’re subscribed to multiple streaming platforms, consider picking one per month and rotating them so you’re only paying for one at a time. You can even share services with family or friends to split costs.

6. Learn Basic DIY Repairs

Getting comfortable with basic DIY skills can save hundreds. Simple sewing for clothing repairs, patching holes, fixing leaks, or even small woodworking projects are easy to learn and can prevent costly service fees. Look up tutorials on YouTube or check out free library books for guidance.

7. Embrace Digital Coupons

Many retailers offer app-only discounts or digital coupons that can help reduce your bill. Apps like Honey or Rakuten also offer cashback and discounts on online purchases. Get into the habit of searching for promo codes before checking out online—it only takes a few extra seconds but can save you a lot over time.

You can use an app like Rakuten to get cash back on the purchases that you make online. To get you started, you can use this link to get your first $30 when you sign up.

8. Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies

Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils can be mixed into effective, non-toxic cleaning solutions. Not only are they cheaper than commercial products, but they’re also environmentally friendly. A simple all-purpose cleaner can be made with vinegar, water, and a few drops of lemon or lavender oil.

9. Buy in Bulk

For essentials you use regularly, bulk buying is almost always cheaper per unit. This works well for staples like grains, pasta, or cleaning supplies. Buying in bulk may be more of an investment upfront but helps save time and money over the year.

10. Set a “No-Spend” Day Each Week

Designate one day a week as a “no-spend” day where you commit to not buying anything. It could be as simple as cooking at home, finding free entertainment like hiking or movie nights, or skipping that coffee run. These days can help you reflect on needs versus wants and show how enjoyable no-cost activities can be.

11. Switch to Reusable Products

Consider switching to reusable items like cloth napkins, washable cotton rounds, and silicone food storage bags. The initial cost might be higher, but you’ll save on buying disposables over time, and you’ll also reduce waste.

12. Practice Mindful Shopping

Whenever you’re tempted to make a purchase, especially an impulse buy, give yourself a 24-hour cooling-off period. Ask if it’s something you really need and if it fits into your budget. More often than not, you’ll find that the desire fades once you’ve had time to think it over.

13. Cancel Gym Memberships for At-Home Workouts

With the abundance of free online workout videos and fitness apps, you can keep fit without the cost of a gym membership. Try apps like Nike Training Club or YouTube channels that offer full workout routines, from yoga to strength training, without needing fancy equipment.

14. Shop End-of-Season Sales

When you plan ahead for next season, you can snag major discounts on quality items. Shop for winter coats and sweaters in spring and swimwear in fall. You’ll be surprised how much you can save by thinking a season ahead.

15. Repurpose Leftovers Creatively

Before tossing leftovers, think about how they can be transformed. Extra roast chicken can become a hearty soup, and leftover rice can be used in fried rice or stuffed peppers. Creative cooking not only reduces food waste but also adds variety to your meals.

16. Use Cash Instead of Cards

Using cash for certain expenses can be a powerful way to keep spending in check. Withdraw a set amount at the beginning of each week for things like dining out or entertainment, and when it’s gone, you know to wait until next week to spend more. This system encourages careful spending and limits impulse purchases.

One thing that goes against this that I like to do is use credit cards for most purchases so that I can get cash back for my purchases, including some of my bills! I use my Chase Freedom card and an Amazon Prime card for most things and get about $100 back every month just for buying the things that I normally do.

17. Borrow Instead of Buying

Libraries offer so much more than books. Many libraries lend movies, audiobooks, and even tools or tech gadgets. They’re a great resource if you’re looking for something temporary without the commitment or cost.

18. Cook at Home More Often

Restaurants and take-out are often budget-busters. Instead of dining out, try recreating favorite restaurant meals at home. Not only will it save you money, but you’ll also gain cooking skills and know exactly what goes into your meals.

19. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use

Electronics like TVs, chargers, and gaming consoles can draw energy even when off, adding to your electric bill. Unplugging devices when not in use can reduce this “phantom energy” cost, helping you save a bit each month.

20. Create a Savings Challenge

Try setting up a small challenge like saving all your $5 bills or putting aside $1 every day. Another idea is the 52-week challenge, where you save a small amount each week, increasing incrementally until the end of the year. These savings can add up faster than you’d expect!

Frugal living in 2025 doesn’t mean depriving yourself; it’s about being smart with your money and getting the most out of every dollar. These tips will help you make the most of your resources and show you that saving money can be stylish, fun, and fulfilling. Here’s to a year of smart spending and happy saving!