26 Ways to Save Money This Year

Looking for simple, practical ways to save money this year? These 26 ideas are full of realistic strategies that help you cut costs, plan your finances, and make thoughtful choices—all without feeling stressed or restricted.

INTRODUCTION

Saving money doesn’t have to feel like a chore or a struggle. Often, the best strategies are the simplest ones: little actions you do consistently over time. When you approach your finances with intention, you can feel more in control, reduce money worries, and slowly build long-term security—all without giving up the things that matter most.

This year, there are plenty of ways to make saving money easier thanks to apps, budgeting tools, and smarter habits. From everyday routines and shopping tips to forward-thinking strategies and skill-building, these 26 ideas are designed to fit your life and goals. Whether you want to build an emergency fund, trim your monthly bills, or simply spend more mindfully, there’s something here to help.

SAVING MONEY AND LIVING INTENTIONALLY

My blog is about living intentionally, simply and with purpose. This, of course, covers a broad range of topics including decluttering, time management, mindset and saving money.

An intentional approach to my finances doesn’t mean never going shopping, not buying things out of necessity or even pleasure but it does mean I’m more aware and mindful of how I spend my money and, importantly, why. This is the reason you’ll find a growing number of articles on my site about saving money and spending with purpose.

Whether you’re looking to come out of debt, build up savings, stop emotional shopping and have a better relationship with your money, I hope you’ll find some ideas to help.

In this article we’re looking at some gentle but practical ways you can save money this year.

DAILY AND HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS TO SAVE MONEY THIS YEAR

1. Track Your Spending

Knowing where your money goes is the first step to saving more. When you write down or track your expenses, it’s easier to see patterns, spot little leaks, and make thoughtful choices instead of spending on autopilot. Over time, just being aware of your spending can save you a surprising amount.

Try this:

• Use a simple app or spreadsheet to record every expense.
• Review your spending weekly to notice patterns.
• Set one small goal each week to reduce unnecessary expenses.

2. Set Up a Budget

Think of a budget as a friendly roadmap for your money. It helps you cover essentials, plan for the future, and make space for savings—all without feeling restricted. When your budget reflects your real life, it becomes a helpful guide rather than a strict rule.

Try this:

• Use the 50/30/20 framework (needs/wants/savings).
• Adjust your budget monthly based on actual spending.
• Treat your budget as a helpful guide rather than a rigid rule.

3. Cut Subscription Overload

It’s easy to forget about subscriptions, and those little fees can add up quickly. Take a look at everything you’re signed up for and keep only what you actually use and enjoy. This can free up money and help you focus on what really matters.

Try this:

• Make a list of all active subscriptions.
• Cancel or pause those you rarely use.
• Consider combining services, like switching multiple streaming platforms to one.

4. Automate Savings

Paying yourself first makes saving so much easier. Set up automatic transfers into a savings account, and you’ll grow your emergency fund or other goals without having to think about it. It’s a simple way to make financial discipline effortless.

Try this:

• Arrange a small automatic transfer each payday.
• Start with a manageable amount, like $10–$20 per week.
• Treat this transfer as a non-negotiable part of your financial plan.

5. Meal Plan and Cook at Home

Planning meals saves money and reduces food waste. When you cook at home, you control portions, ingredients, and costs, which usually leads to big monthly savings. It can also spark creativity in the kitchen and make mealtime more enjoyable.

Try this:

• Plan your meals weekly and create a shopping list.
• Batch cook and freeze portions to save time.
• Use leftovers creatively to avoid unnecessary waste.

Further Reading: How Batch Cooking Can Save You Time, Stress and Money in the Kitchen

6. Buy in Bulk Strategically

Buying in bulk can be a great way to save, but it works best when planned carefully. Stock up on non-perishable items or things you use all the time. Just avoid overbuying things that spoil quickly or clutter your home.

Try this:

• Stock up on pantry staples when they’re on sale.
• Avoid bulk purchases of items that expire quickly.
• Consider sharing bulk items with friends or family.

7. Use Cashback and Reward Programs

Make the money you spend work for you. Cashback and reward programs give you a little back on purchases you’d make anyway. Over time, it adds up into a nice cushion or extra funds for planned expenses.

Try this:

• Join cashback apps or loyalty programs that fit your lifestyle.
• Apply rewards toward everyday purchases like groceries or fuel.
• Review your accumulated rewards quarterly and plan how to use them wisely.

Smart Shopping and Lifestyle Changes to Save Money This Year

8. Shop With a List Only

Impulse buys can quietly eat away at your budget. Shopping with a list keeps your purchases intentional and helps you stick to your plan. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference.

Try this:

• Create a shopping list for every trip and stick to it.
• Leave cards at home and use cash for essentials to avoid overspending.
• Wait 24 hours before buying non-essential items to see if you really need them.

Further Reading: 11 Tips to Stop Impulse Buying and Purchase More Intentionally

9. Embrace Secondhand and Thrift

Secondhand shopping is a smart and sustainable way to save. You can find great clothes, furniture, and even electronics at a fraction of the price. Plus, selling items you no longer need can turn clutter into cash.

Try this:

• Explore online marketplaces and charity shops for good deals.
• Sell items you no longer use for extra income.
• Experiment with swapping items within your community.

10. DIY When Possible

Doing things yourself (safely!) can save money and teach useful skills. Whether it’s small home repairs, making gifts, or tackling basic projects, DIY helps you cut costs and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Try this:

• Learn simple home maintenance tasks like fixing taps or shelves.
• Make gifts or household items yourself.
• Use online tutorials to guide you through projects safely.

11. Energy Efficiency at Home

Small changes at home can lower bills without losing comfort. Simple fixes like LED bulbs, insulating windows, or smart thermostats save money and are good for the planet too.

Try this:

• Switch to energy-efficient lighting.
• Install timers or smart thermostats to reduce wastage.
• Check windows and doors for drafts and insulate where needed.

Further Reading: 14 Practical Ways to Declutter and Get Your Home Ready for Winter

12. Cancel Impulse Subscriptions

Extra services can quietly drain your account. Regularly reviewing and cancelling unused subscriptions keeps your budget lean and helps you focus on the things you really use.

Try this:

• Review all subscriptions at least every few months.
• Pause or cancel services you rarely use.
• Keep a checklist to track which subscriptions are essential.

13. Avoid Brand Loyalty

You don’t always have to stick to big-name brands. Many store brands are just as good, but cost less. Trying alternatives encourages smart shopping and saves money without sacrificing quality.

Try this:

• Test store-brand staples like cereals, cleaning products, or toiletries.
• Compare prices before every purchase.
• Rotate products occasionally to avoid overspending on labels.

14. Plan for Big Purchases

Buying big items impulsively can really strain a budget. Planning ahead gives you time to save, compare options, and make thoughtful choices—often leading to better quality at a lower cost.

Try this:

• Set aside a monthly savings amount for upcoming large purchases.
• Apply a 30-day waiting rule for non-essential items.
• Research alternatives to make sure you get the best deal.

FINANCE AND DEBT MANAGEMENT TO SAVE MONEY THIS YEAR

15. Pay Down High-Interest Debt First

High-interest debt can grow fast and make saving harder. Focus on paying off the most expensive debt first to reduce interest and free up money over time. This simple strategy also lowers stress and improves your financial security.

Try this:

• List all debts from highest to lowest interest.
• Make minimum payments on lower-interest debts while putting extra toward high-interest ones.
• Check in monthly to adjust payments and stay on track.

16. Refinance When Rates Are Lower

If interest rates drop or you can negotiate a better deal on a loan, refinancing can lower your payments and save money over time. Reviewing your loans regularly helps keep your budget manageable.

Try this:

• Check current rates to see if refinancing is worthwhile.
• Include any fees in your calculations.
• Apply savings from lower rates directly to debt or savings.

17. Avoid Late Fees

Late fees are an easy way to lose money unnecessarily. Setting reminders or automating payments keeps you on track and protects your credit score.

Try this:

• Use calendar alerts or app notifications for due dates.
• Set up automatic payments where possible.
• Keep a small buffer in your account to avoid overdrafts.

18. Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is like a financial safety net. It helps cover unexpected costs without going into debt, and gives peace of mind. Start small and build gradually, and it will grow into a reliable buffer over time.

Try this:

• Start with $500–$1,000 and build gradually.
• Keep the fund separate from everyday accounts.
• Work up to covering 3–6 months of essential expenses.

19. Use a Financial Tracker

A tracker shows the big picture of your money—what’s coming in, what’s going out, and how much you’re saving. Tracking helps you spot opportunities to save and keeps you accountable.

Try this:

• Use an app or a simple spreadsheet.
• Categorise your expenses for clarity.
• Review monthly and adjust your plans if needed.

20. Consider Side Hustles Carefully

Extra income can help you reach your goals faster, but make sure the work fits your life. A small side hustle can be fun, rewarding, and flexible without causing stress.

Try this:

• Explore freelancing, tutoring, or online selling.
• Sell handmade items, printables, or services that match your skills.
• Make sure it doesn’t interfere with your wellbeing.

Forward-Thinking Approaches to Help You Save Money This Year

21. Leverage Technology for Smart Savings

Apps can make saving effortless. Tools that round up purchases or track cashback rewards grow your savings automatically. Pairing these with manual contributions can help you reach goals faster.

Try this:

• Explore apps that suit your finances.
• Set goals within the app to stay motivated.
• Combine automated and manual saving for faster progress.

22. Plan for Inflation

Prices can rise unexpectedly, so it’s smart to adjust your budget. Planning ahead ensures your money keeps its value and helps prevent overspending on essentials.

Try this:

• Review spending on basics each month.
• Adjust your budget for rising costs.
• Look for deals, bulk options, or alternatives.

23. Eco-Friendly Practices Can Save Money

Green habits often save money too. Reducing waste, reusing, and conserving energy can cut bills while helping the environment. Little changes add up over time.

Try this:

• Switch to reusable household items.
• Reduce food waste by planning meals and freezing leftovers.
• Invest in energy-efficient appliances.

24. Explore Local Discounts and Community Offers

Your community can be full of money-saving opportunities—from local deals to free events. Using them reduces expenses while keeping life fun and connected.

Try this:

• Join local groups online for deals and swaps.
• Attend free library or community events.
• Take advantage of loyalty cards, vouchers, or seasonal promotions.

25. Digital Coupons and Cashback

Shopping online doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using coupons and cashback portals helps you get the best value, and those small savings can add up surprisingly quickly.

Try this:

• Install browser extensions for automatic coupon codes.
• Use cashback portals when making online purchases.
• Track your savings to see the difference.

26. Invest in Skills That Reduce Costs

Learning new skills can save you money and give you confidence. Cooking, sewing, home repairs, or budgeting reduce the need for paid services and make life a little easier.

Try this:

• Take online courses or watch tutorials.
• Apply your new skills straight away.
• Share what you learn with friends or family.

CONCLUSION

Saving money this year is all about being thoughtful, consistent, and realistic. These 26 tips give you a mix of simple daily habits, smart shopping strategies, debt management, and forward-thinking approaches that can really make a difference. Start with just a few ideas that feel doable, then build from there. With small, intentional actions, you can feel more in control, save steadily, and enjoy financial peace of mind.

And over to you… Which of these ways to save money this year feels easiest for you to try? Or do you have your own favourite habits for saving? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

MORE ON THIS TOPIC

Here are some more resources you might find helpful:

• Explore all my articles on Simple Finances and frugal living
• 7 Low-Cost Lifestyle Choices To Make Frugal Living Easier
• How to Enjoy Your Home More Without Buying Anything New
• How to Simplify Your Finances and Manage Your Money More Easily
• 7 Surprising Ways That Decluttering Saves You Money