24 Things to Stop Buying to Save Money Fast!
We all have things we spend money on that we don’t need. Whether it’s a £5 cup of coffee every morning or a £200 pair of jeans, little purchases can add up quickly. If you want to save money, check out this list of 24 things to stop buying to save money fast! From unnecessary beauty products to unhealthy snacks, see how much money you can save by making simple changes in your spending habits!
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24 Things to Stop Buying to Save Money Fast:
1. Eating Out
If you’re looking to save money, one of the quickest and easiest ways to do so is by reducing the number of times you eat out. While eating out may be convenient and sometimes even necessary, it’s almost always more expensive than cooking at home. Plus, cooking at home gives you more control over the ingredients and can make healthier choices.
If you’re serious about saving money, aim to cook most of your meals at home and only eat out on special occasions. You may be surprised at how much money you can save in a month or two!
2. Fancy Coffee
If you’re like me, you start every day with a cup of coffee from your favourite coffee shop. And if you’re like me, that cup of coffee costs you about £3.50. That might not seem like a lot of money, but it adds up quickly. Over a month, you’re spending more than £100 on coffee. And over a year, that number jumps to nearly £1,300.
Of course, giving up coffee entirely is easier said than done. But even making small changes can have a big impact on your budget. So, instead of splurging, why not make your coffee instead?
3. Takeaway Meals
It’s no secret that takeout meals can be expensive. Those meals can add up whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or ordering in for dinner. In fact, the average person spends about £1,200 on takeout each year. And while it may not seem like a lot, that money could be better spent elsewhere.
For example, if you invested that money instead of spending it on takeout, you could easily have an extra £5,000 in just five years. Even if you’re not interested in investing, you could still use that money to pay off debt or build up your savings.
So, skipping the takeout is a great place to start if you’re looking to save some money. Not only will you save money in the short term, but you’ll also set yourself up for financial success in the long run.
4. Magazine Subscription
If you’re like most people, you probably have a stack of unread magazines sitting on your coffee table. Perhaps you subscribed to them in a moment of weakness, or maybe they were given to you as a gift.
Whatever the case, it’s time to face the truth: magazine subscriptions are a waste of money. Not only are they expensive, but you’ll likely never read more than a handful of articles from each issue.
In fact, most people only read the articles that interest them and throw the rest away. If you want to save money, one of the easiest things you can do is cancel your magazine subscriptions. You’ll be surprised at how much money you’ll save over a year, and you can always buy individual issues if there’s an article you want to read.
5. Books
It’s no secret that books can be expensive. Whether you’re buying new or used, hardcover or paperback, the cost of filling your shelves can quickly add up. If you want to save money, one obvious solution is to stop buying books. However, this is more challenging than it sounds. For many of us, books are more than just material objects. They’re a source of knowledge, comfort, and inspiration. Cutting them out of our lives completely can feel like a daunting prospect.
Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to curb your book-buying habits without completely giving up your love of reading. One option is to take advantage of your local library. Most libraries offer a wide selection of books that you can borrow for free. Additionally, many libraries now offer digital copies of books you can check out and read on your computer or e-reader.
6. Save on Grocery Shopping
We all know that eating healthy can be expensive. However, there are a few simple tricks that you can use to save money on your grocery bill. First, try to cook meals from scratch rather than buy ready-made meals. Not only is this usually cheaper, but it’s also healthier since you know exactly what ingredients are going into your food.
Secondly, avoid Junk food and snacks as much as possible. These are much more expensive than healthier options like fruits and veggies.
Finally, try to bulk purchase items when they’re on sale. This way, you’ll always have the ingredients you need without paying the full price. Following these tips can easily save money on your grocery bill without sacrificing your health.
7. Bottled Water
These days, it seems like everyone is carrying around a reusable water bottle. And for good reason! Not only is it better for the environment, but it can also save you a lot of money in the long run.
If you regularly buy bottled water, consider switching to a reusable bottle. It may require a bit of an upfront investment, but you’ll soon start to see the savings add up. Plus, you can feel good knowing you’re doing your part to reduce plastic waste.
So, next time you’re reaching for a bottle of water, think about whether or not you need it. Chances are, you can just as quickly fill up your reusable bottle and save yourself some money in the process.
8. Soda Drinks
If you’re looking to save money, one of the easiest places to start is by cutting down on your soda intake. Soda is not only expensive, but it’s also bad for your health. Just one soda a day can add up to a lot of extra sugar and calories; over time, those calories can lead to weight gain.
Drinking water is a much better option for your health and your wallet. It’s calorie-free and hydrating, and it costs pennies per glass. So, the next time you’re tempted to reach for a soda, remember that water is your body’s best (and cheapest) choice.
9. Alcohol
One of the quickest and easiest ways to save money is to stop drinking alcohol. A night out can easily cost £100 when you factor in drinks, cover charges, and tips. And that’s not even counting the cost of taxis or Uber! If you go out drinking once a week, that’s £400 per month or £4800 per year. That’s a lot of money that could be saved.
Not to mention, alcohol is often associated with poor decision-making. After a few drinks, you’re more likely to spend money on things you don’t need or want. So, if you’re looking to save money and improve your finances, cutting out alcohol is a great place to start.
10. Gym Membership
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably made a New Year’s resolution or two about getting in shape. And if you’re really like most people, you’ve probably already abandoned those resolutions. But there’s no need to feel guilty. After all, gyms can be expensive, and finding the time to get there can be challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get a great workout at home without busting your budget.
For starters, you can use your body weight for resistance exercises. Push-ups, sit-ups, and squats are excellent exercises requiring no equipment. If you want to add a bit of variety or increase the challenge level, there are several inexpensive pieces of equipment that you can buy second-hand or even make yourself. For example, a yoga mat can provide a comfortable surface for floor exercises, while a few dumbbells can help you add weight to your routine.
Of course, working out at home isn’t for everyone. But it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a way to save money and still get in shape. With some creativity and effort, you can create a workout routine that’s just as effective and far more affordable than anything at the gym.
11. Gifts
Finding the perfect gift for a friend can be tricky, especially if you’re on a budget. However, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing thoughtfulness.
One way to do this is to watch for sales throughout the year. This way, you can buy gifts on clearance and save them for special occasions.
Another option is to make homemade gifts. This can be anything from baked goods to a hand-crafted card. The key is to put some thought into what your friend would appreciate. Following these tips, you can give your friends thoughtful gifts without breaking the bank.
12. Branded Products
As any savvy shopper knows, store brands can be a great way to save money. In many cases, the quality of store brands is just as good as name-brand products, but they can be purchased at a fraction of the cost.
Plus, with the rise of online shopping, it has never been easier to compare prices and find the best deals on the items you need. So, next time you’re at the store, remember to try the store brand. Your wallet will thank you!
13. Mobile Phones
If you’re like most people, your mobile phone is one of your lifelines. It allows you to stay connected with friends and family, get work done on the go, and access a world of information anytime. However, all that convenience comes at a cost, and your monthly phone bill can quickly increase. If you’re looking for ways to save money on your mobile phone, here are a few tips to get you started.
One of the simplest ways to save money is to switch to a SIM-only plan. This type of plan eliminates the need for a costly contract and gives you the flexibility to change plans or providers if you find a better deal.
Another way to save money is to take advantage of special deals and discounts. Many mobile phone companies offer discounts for students, seniors, or customers who sign up for multiple lines. And if you’re willing to switch providers, you can often snag a great deal on a new sim-only plan. Whatever route you choose, there are plenty of ways to save money on your mobile phone.
14. Smoking
Giving up smoking is not only great for your health but can also save you a lot of money. According to NHS England, the average smoker (10 a day) spends around £3,640 per year on cigarettes. That’s £200 per month or more than £10 per day. Over ten years, that’s a potential savings of £36,400.
Of course, quitting smoking is not easy. But it’s important to remember that many resources are available to help you quit for good. So, if you’re ready to save money and improve your health, giving up smoking is a great place to start.
If you are serious about giving up smoking then check out the NHS Better Health website for advice and support.
15. Beauty Treatments
If you’re looking to save some money, one area you should consider cutting back on is beauty treatments. While it’s important to feel good about yourself, there are plenty of ways to do so without spending much money on salon visits or expensive products.
Instead, indulge in some at-home pampering treatments. You could buy cheaper treatments from your local drugstore or make your own with ingredients you may already have at home.
16. Travel Costs
If you’re looking to save money on your daily commute, you can do a few things. First, consider taking public transport instead of driving. Not only is this better for the environment, but it can also save you a lot of money on petrol and parking fees.
If you need to take the occasional taxi or Uber, try to book in advance so you can take advantage of any discounts or promo codes.
Also, if you do use public transport, consider buying a weekly or monthly pass, as this will likely be cheaper than buying individual tickets.
17. TV Subscriptions
If you’re like most people, you probably have a few subscription services that you pay for every month. And while it may not seem like much, those subscriptions can add up over time!
First, let’s look at the cost of TV subscriptions. Even the most basic cable package can cost £50 or more monthly. If you add extras like premium channels, the price can quickly jump to £100 or more. That’s a lot of money to spend on something you may not even watch that often!
Secondly, think about all the other things you could do with that money if you didn’t have a TV subscription. You could save it or use it to pay off debt. Or you could enjoy other hobbies or experiences that you love. There’s no reason to keep pouring your hard-earned money into a TV subscription when there are so many other better uses for it!
18. Cinema
There’s no denying that going to the movies can be a bit of a budget buster. Between the cost of tickets, popcorn, and candy, it’s easy to spend a small fortune at your local cinema.
But if you’re looking to save some cash and can’t give up the cinema altogether, there are a few simple ways to enjoy the cinema on a budget.
First, consider going to matinees instead of evening showings. Tickets are usually cheaper during the day, and you’ll also avoid the crowds. Secondly, bring your snacks instead of buying them at the concession stand. A little planning can go a long way towards saving you money at the movies.
19. Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes can be a lot of fun. They’re like a present you give yourself every month, full of surprises. But they can also be a massive waste of money, especially if you don’t take the time to cancel them once you’ve had enough.
I’m guilty of this myself. I’ve subscribed to more than a few boxes over the years, and most of the time, I forgot about them until the charge appeared on my credit card statement.
If you’re looking to save money fast, one of the easiest things you can do is stop buying subscription boxes. You’ll be surprised how much money you can save by cancelling just a few subscriptions. So, take a look at your monthly expenses and see if there are any subscription boxes you can live without. Your bank account will thank you for it!
20. New Clothing
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a bit of a shopaholic. Whenever I see a cute dress or a new pair of shoes, I must have them. However, lately, I’ve been trying to curb my spending habits and save some money.
One of the easiest ways to do this is to stop buying new clothes. Instead of hitting the mall every weekend, I’ve opted for secondhand shops and thrift stores.
Not only is this much easier on my wallet, but it’s also more environmentally friendly. Used clothing doesn’t require new resources to produce, so it has a lower carbon footprint. Plus, it’s always fun to find hidden treasures at thrift stores. So, if you’re looking to save money, I would stop buying new and give used clothes a try instead.
21. Impulse Buying
Anyone who has ever gone on a shopping spree knows the feeling of regret that comes afterwards. Whether it’s a new piece of clothing that doesn’t fit quite right or a trinket that collects dust, we’ve all been there.
Impulse buying can be dangerous not only to our wallets but also to our mental health. That’s why it’s important to take a step back and ask ourselves whether we need something before we make a purchase.
One way to do this is to create a wish list of items you want to buy. Then, wait a few days before purchasing anything from your list. This will give you time to reconsider whether you need the item or are just succumbing to a momentary urge.
By being more mindful of our spending, we can save money and unnecessary clutter.
22. Female-Friendly Products
Have you heard of the pink tax? That’s right, from pink razors to scented laundry detergent, companies are charging women more for essentially the same products as they sell to men. And it’s not just a few pennies; sometimes, women pay 50% or more for the same product.
So next time you’re at the store, think twice before reaching for the pink version of whatever you need. Chances are, you’ll save yourself a lot of money in the long run.
23. Vacations
One of the quickest ways to save money fast is to cut out vacations and fancy day-outs. However, there are times when you need to take a trip, for example, to visit family members or work commitments. If you need to take a trip, there are a few simple tips that can help you save money on travel costs.
One way to save is to use public transport options whenever possible. Public transport is usually cheaper than taking a taxi or renting a car, and it can also be a great way to see the sights of a new place.
Another way to save on travel costs is to book your accommodation and flights in advance. By planning your trip ahead of time, you can often get discounts on both airfare and accommodations.
Finally, try to avoid travelling during peak times if possible. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but you’ll also likely find cheaper rates on flights and hotels. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your travel costs down.
Other Ways of Saving Money
If you’re looking to save money fast, there are a few other key things you can do.
First, pay off any high-interest debt you have. This will reduce the amount of interest you pay each month, freeing up more money to save.
Second, create a budget and stick to it. Determine how much you need to spend on essentials each month, and then set aside additional money for savings.
Third, create a meal plan and batch-cook your meals instead of eating out. This can help you save money on groceries and reduce the temptation to spend on convenience foods.
Finally, use automated savings apps to help you automatically transfer money into your savings account each month.
By following these tips, you can quickly start saving money and reaching your financial goals.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, saving money doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need to prioritise what you need and what you can do without. You don’t necessarily need to incorporate all these tips into your daily life, but choosing a few will significantly help you achieve your saving goals.
As you see your savings grow, you may even start to cut back on some more items. However, is important not to cut back too much and give yourself a little treat now and again; otherwise, you might find yourself slipping back into old habits
So there you have it: 24 things to stop buying to save money fast! Some of these tips may be more applicable to your situation than others, but try them all and see which ones work best for you. And remember, even if you can only save £10 or £20 each week by implementing some of these strategies, that adds up over time!
Remember to check out our related resources for more money-saving tips.
Thanks so much for stopping by; I appreciate everyone who takes the time to read and make it to the end! I have lots of exciting new content in the next few weeks, so make sure you pop back to catch up!
