Written by Bernie Carr
Now that the holidays are over a lot of us are reviewing our finances and seeing how much we spent. It’s time to cut back on expenses to pay off debt or set aside money for emergencies. But saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing all the things you love. With a few strategic changes and smarter spending habits, you can save $100 (or more!) this month without feeling deprived. Whether you’re looking to pad your emergency fund, pay off debt, or reach a specific financial goal, these tips can help.
1. Cut Back on Takeout and Coffee Runs
- Potential Savings: $40–$60/month
It’s so tempting to stop by Dunkin to pick up up coffee on the way to work. Instead of grabbing takeout or coffee every day, aim to cook at home and brew your own coffee. Try meal-prepping on weekends or making bulk freezer meals to save time. - I like cold brew coffee so I got myself a cold brew coffee maker. By helping me avoid the daily coffee stop, it has already paid for itself in less than a week. Treat yourself to a homemade latte and skip the $5 coffee shop splurge a few times a week.
2. Cancel or Pause Subscriptions You Don’t Use
- Potential Savings: $20–$50/month
Review your bank statements for unused subscriptions like streaming services, apps, or gym memberships. Cancel the ones you don’t use regularly, or consider pausing them until you really need them again.
3. Use Cashback and Coupon Apps
- Potential Savings: $10–$30/month
Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Honey can save you money on groceries, online shopping, and more. Pair them with store loyalty programs to maximize your savings. For groceries, use coupons and plan your meals around sales.
4. Lower Your Utility Bills
- Potential Savings: $15–$25/month
Small changes like unplugging electronics, switching to LED bulbs, and turning off lights in unused rooms can cut down your electricity bill. Lower your thermostat by a few degrees and use a programmable thermostat to save on heating costs.
5. Cook with Ingredients You Already Have
- Potential Savings: $20–$50/month
Before heading to the store, take inventory of your pantry and fridge. Plan meals using what you already have and buy only what’s necessary. Websites like SuperCook can help you create recipes based on your ingredients.
6. Limit Impulse Purchases
- Potential Savings: $30–$50/month
Think twice before making unplanned purchases. Wait 24–48 hours before buying non-essential items to avoid buyer’s remorse. This practice helps you distinguish between wants and needs.
7. Carpool, Use Public Transit, or Walk
- Potential Savings: $20–$40/month
Gas prices can add up quickly. Reduce costs by carpooling with friends or coworkers, taking public transportation, or walking or biking for short trips. Apps like GasBuddy can also help you find the cheapest fuel near you.
8. Negotiate or Shop Around for Insurance and Bills
- Potential Savings: $15–$50/month
Call your service providers (internet, phone, insurance) and ask for discounts or promotions. Compare rates from competitors and use the information to negotiate a better deal.
9. Opt for Free Entertainment
- Potential Savings: $20–$40/month
Instead of spending money on movies or events, explore free options. Check out local community events, free museums, parks, or library resources like movies, books, and workshops.
10. Declutter and Sell Unused Items
- Potential Earnings: $50–$100
Go through your closet, garage, or storage spaces and sell items you no longer need on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Poshmark. Not only will you make extra cash, but you’ll also free up space in your home.
Final Thoughts
By combining these small changes, you can easily save $100 or more this month. The key is to stay mindful of your spending habits and look for opportunities to cut unnecessary costs. Over time, these savings add up and bring you closer to your financial goals.
What are your favorite ways to save money? Share your tips in the comments below!
About the author
Bernie Carr is the founder of Apartment Prepper. She has written several books including the best-selling Prepper’s Pocket Guide, Jake and Miller’s Big Adventure, The Penny-Pinching Prepper and How to Prepare for Most Emergencies on a $50 a Month Budget. Bernie’s latest e-book, FRUGAL DIY has just been released on Amazon. Her work appears in sites such as the Allstate Blog and Clark.com, as well as print magazines such as Backwoods Survival Guide and Prepper Survival Guide. She has been featured in national publications such as Fox Business and Popular Mechanics. Learn more about Bernie here.
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