18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (2024)

Table of Contents
1. Order online now (like, yesterday!) so you won't pay an arm and a leg for a Mother's Day bouquet you have to rush-deliver or fight someone at the grocery store to buy. 2. Buy a mattress during Memorial Day sales (like your mother told you) to score a cheaper deal and get some better ZZZZs. 3. And shop around for a new grill now for some *sizzling* seasonal discounts. 4. Love Eggos as much as Eleven does? Make a big batch of mini waffles with this waffle maker and freeze them for a cheaper breakfast treat. 5. Cash in six old MAC product containers for a ~free~ lipstick. 6. Avoid shipping costs (boo, shipping costs!) by opting for in-store pickup when possible. 7. And save on packaging when you mail a beach ball, frisbee, pillow, and basically lots of things you could use for a beach vacation. 8. Perfect some delicious under-$10 recipes so you'll stop using all your credit card rewards points at McDonald's. (Sorry for telling you that's a thing you can do.) 9. Price-stalk Amazon items with CamelCamelCamel so you can score the best deals on something you don't need ASAP. 10. Search surrounding bars and restaurants on the Yelp app to get deals when you check in...like this regrettable (but free!) whiskey shot I've taken many a time. 11. Set a shopping budget and keep tabs on your spending with Parcel. 12. Eat hyperlocal by growing vegetables from scraps. 13. Put off having a ring resized with this cheap size adjuster. 14. Reuse plastic bags over and over again for a million different things — including non-food stuff! 15. Switch over to soy candles, which typically last about 50% longer than regular candles. 16. Bring your old kitchen knives back to life with a cheap knife sharpener that's crazy easy to use. 17. Subscribe to the Money Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for a Richer Life podcast to get detailed explainers on financial matters in normal-people speak. 18. And let a (thoroughly washed!) Sriracha bottle stand in for a soap dispenser in desperate times. Shopping for something specific? Check out BuzzFeed Reviews to find the best things for every budget! FAQs

    We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and itspublishingpartners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    And shed fewer tears over your credit card statements.

    by Elizabeth LillyBuzzFeed Staff
    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (2)

    Jenny Chang / BuzzFeed

    1. Order online now (like, yesterday!) so you won't pay an arm and a leg for a Mother's Day bouquet you have to rush-deliver or fight someone at the grocery store to buy.

    fromyouflowers.com, fromyouflowers.com

    Get them from From You Flowers: quaint blue butterfly bouquet for $31.99+ (same-day delivery) and lavender rose and lily blooms for $31.99+ (same-day delivery).

    2. Buy a mattress during Memorial Day sales (like your mother told you) to score a cheaper deal and get some better ZZZZs.

    Columbia Pictures Corporation

    Mattress industry pros recommend buying a new mattress every seven or eight years and big-box, specialty mattress stores often have major sales over Memorial Day. Or, if you need one ASAP, just go with one of those fancy in-a-box mattress startups like Casper, Tuft & Needle, and Brooklyn Bedding.

    Here's looking at you, person who's still sleeping on a mattress from college. (It me.)

    3. And shop around for a new grill now for some *sizzling* seasonal discounts.

    amazon.com, amazon.com

    We're on the cusp of barbecue season and getting your grill on is just another good excuse to eat well and get out of the house.

    Get them from Amazon: infrared electric grill for $109.99 (down from $199.99) and charcoal grill for $124.20 (down from $140.48)

    And check out our picks for the best cast iron skillets on BuzzFeed Reviews.

    4. Love Eggos as much as Eleven does? Make a big batch of mini waffles with this waffle maker and freeze them for a cheaper breakfast treat.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (3)

    amazon.com

    H/T to our reader Chelsea Fedora (via Facebook), who gave us this idea on our housewarming gifts story:

    “I bought the mini waffle maker for myself and it's AMAZING! I make a huge batch of them every couple of Sundays, wrap them up in aluminum foil, freeze them, and pop them in the toaster when the mood hits me. Awesome homemade Eggo waffles ALL THE TIME.”

    Get the mini waffle maker from Amazon for $14.40+ (available in six colors).

    5. Cash in six old MAC product containers for a ~free~ lipstick.

    @MACCosmeticsMiddleEast / Via instagram.com, maccosmetics.com

    MAC has an extensive guide on what qualifies and if you're still not sure, live-chat with one of its reps. Enter the six product types, choose three preferred lipstick colors, and print a form for your package to return the containers. Read the details here.

    If you're a MAC addict anyway, that's a $17 lipstick FO' FREE.

    And check out our picks for the best matte lipsticks on BuzzFeed Reviews.

    6. Avoid shipping costs (boo, shipping costs!) by opting for in-store pickup when possible.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (4)

    homedepot.com

    OK, so not all retailers offer this, but lots do, like Walmart (including groceries and limited items), The Home Depot, Nordstrom, CVS, and more of the usual shopping suspects. See a lengthy list of stores on RetailMeNot. When shopping online, search via "in-store pickup" or "your store" to find eligible items.

    In-store pickup not an option? Check out our list of stores with free shipping, no minimum.

    7. And save on packaging when you mail a beach ball, frisbee, pillow, and basically lots of things you could use for a beach vacation.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (5)

    Michelle Porucznik/BuzzFeed

    So next time you think about sending a loved one a "Wish You Were Here" postcard from a tropical locale, adhere a shipping label directly to a beach ball instead. Read the full list of things you'd be surprised you can mail.

    8. Perfect some delicious under-$10 recipes so you'll stop using all your credit card rewards points at McDonald's. (Sorry for telling you that's a thing you can do.)

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (6)

    budgetbytes.com

    This dish includes stuff that's mostly from your pantry/fridge. It whips up four servings for about $7 total in less than 25 minutes. If you dig it, stock up on the required frozen broccoli florets and wide rice noodles when you find them on sale. Get the recipe on Budget Bytes.

    And check out six more budget-friendly recipes we're loving rn.

    9. Price-stalk Amazon items with CamelCamelCamel so you can score the best deals on something you don't need ASAP.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (7)

    chrome.google.com

    Casual Amazon shoppers will notice that prices fluctuate quite often and can differ based on a size or color. Beat(-ish) the system by entering the URL for a product at camelcamelcamel.com to see an item's pricing history and set up a watch for an item. Download the Camelizer extension for Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.

    If you're in the mood to browse, you can also check out deals in CamelCamelCamel's price drops section.

    10. Search surrounding bars and restaurants on the Yelp app to get deals when you check in...like this regrettable (but free!) whiskey shot I've taken many a time.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (8)

    Yelp

    This is also a swell way to force a group of people into choosing a destination when no one wants to make a decision. Download the app from iTunes or Google Play for free.

    11. Set a shopping budget and keep tabs on your spending with Parcel.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (9)

    thisisparcel.com

    When you sign up for free here, you'll answer questions like your age, what kind of shopping you'll use it for, and your monthly take-home income. Install a browser extension and add products from other sites to your parcels (aka Pinterest board-y things) as part of categorized checklists with budgets. Within a parcel you can sort by things like store, low stock, and sale. In short, you can curb impulse buys and not shudder in fear at your credit card statement at the end of the month. (Probably.)

    12. Eat hyperlocal by growing vegetables from scraps.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (10)

    Facebook: officialgoodful

    Check out our tutorial on Goodful.

    And make the most of those veggies with our picks for the best blenders on BuzzFeed Reviews.

    13. Put off having a ring resized with this cheap size adjuster.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (11)

    amazon.com

    Resizing a ring definitely costs more than $10. Just sayin'.

    Promising Review: "I just got engaged a few days ago and my ring seems to be a little big, even though it's my normal size. I'm thinking it's because it's a little warmer than usual outside and I'm not sure if I want to get my ring resized or not. This is a perfect solution until it gets warm outside again. The guard hasn't moved around on my ring and it's very comfortable." --Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99.

    14. Reuse plastic bags over and over again for a million different things — including non-food stuff!

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (12)

    theyummylife.com

    Ninety-six gallon bags are $13.37 on Amazon, which, tbh, is quite a deal. BUT if you reuse this pack, they could last for what feels like an eternity.

    Grossed out? Read The Yummy Life's explainer on how to get them clean and ready for another useful round.

    15. Switch over to soy candles, which typically last about 50% longer than regular candles.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (13)

    amazon.com

    Also, this scent is straight-up delightful.

    Get it from Amazon for $6.64.

    16. Bring your old kitchen knives back to life with a cheap knife sharpener that's crazy easy to use.

    Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

    Read my lengthy personal review here.

    Get it from Amazon for $5.99 (available in three colors).

    17. Subscribe to the Money Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for a Richer Life podcast to get detailed explainers on financial matters in normal-people speak.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (14)

    itunes.apple.com

    Financial expert Laura D. Adams received an MBA at the University of Florida and has written several financial advice books, like Smart Moves to Grow Rich and Smart Moves to Deal with Your Debt. She's pleasant and friendly, and doesn't talk down to listeners. Plus, it's interesting, even if the episode is N/A to your current financial sitch! Topics include the likes of wisely managing your money after a pay raise (episode 484), prepping your credit for a mortgage approval (episode 450), and paying off student loans in the cheapest ways (episode 478). She started the podcast in 2008, so if you need advice on a financial woe, there's probably an episode that addresses it.

    Subscribe for free via iTunes, Google Play, Podbay, Stitcher, and Player FM.

    18. And let a (thoroughly washed!) Sriracha bottle stand in for a soap dispenser in desperate times.

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (15)

    Walt Lilly / Via Twitter: @waltlilly

    What, you don't get all your decor inspo from your brother's tweets about dive bar bathrooms?!

    Get a 56 fl. oz. jug of hand soap refill from Amazon for $3.99.

    Shopping for something specific? Check out BuzzFeed Reviews to find the best things for every budget!

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (16)

    BuzzFeed

    18 Clever Ways To Spend Less Money This Month (2024)

    FAQs

    How to spend less money each month? ›

    Make a budget.
    1. Set a savings goal. ...
    2. Set up direct deposits to go into savings. ...
    3. Buy generic. ...
    4. Stay out of “that store.” ...
    5. Cancel some subscriptions and memberships. ...
    6. Join gas rewards programs. ...
    7. Meal plan. ...
    8. Use cash-back apps and coupons.
    Jun 13, 2024

    How can I trick myself into spending less money? ›

    Here are some ideas to help you stop spending money and build healthier financial habits:
    1. Create a Budget. ...
    2. Visualize What You're Saving For.
    3. Always Shop with a List. ...
    4. Nix the Brand Names. ...
    5. Master Meal Prep.
    6. Consider Cash for In-store Shopping. ...
    7. Remove Temptation.
    8. Hit “Pause"
    Jul 10, 2024

    What can you use less of to save money? ›

    How to spend less money
    • Avoid eating out. Eating in can be a great way to save money every month. ...
    • Buy generic and used. ...
    • Use public transportation. ...
    • Check your insurance rates. ...
    • Ask for discounts. ...
    • Unsubscribe from marketing emails. ...
    • Save your tax refunds.
    Apr 10, 2024

    How can I spend my money better? ›

    In this article:
    1. Create and Stick to a Budget.
    2. Prioritize Needs Over Wants.
    3. Use Your Credit Card—but Pay It Off Each Month.
    4. Know Your Values—and Your Triggers.
    5. Reduce Spending Where It Makes Sense.
    6. Consider Long-Term Costs.
    7. Limit Your Payment Options.
    Mar 23, 2024

    What is the 30 day rule? ›

    The premise of the 30-day savings rule is straightforward: When faced with the temptation of an impulse purchase, wait 30 days before committing to the buy. During this time, take the opportunity to evaluate the necessity and impact of the purchase on your overall financial goals.

    What is the 50/30/20 rule? ›

    The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

    How do I stop spending money like crazy? ›

    1. Shop with a goal in mind. We've all been there. ...
    2. Stop spending money at restaurants. Changing how you spend money on food is one of the easiest ways to save money. ...
    3. Resist sales. Who doesn't love a good deal? ...
    4. Swear off debt. ...
    5. Delay gratification. ...
    6. Challenge yourself to reach your new goals.
    May 31, 2024

    What are the 5 steps to save money? ›

    5 simple steps to start saving
    • Set one specific goal. Rather than socking away money into a savings account, set specific goals for your savings. ...
    • Budget for savings. Just because you decide to save doesn't mean it's going to happen. ...
    • Make saving automatic. ...
    • Keep separate accounts. ...
    • Monitor & watch it grow.

    How do you do a no spend month? ›

    For the no-spend challenge, you pay for essentials only for a set period of time. Thirty days is pretty common, so you might hear it called a no-spend month too. Basically you're covering your Four Walls (food, utilities, shelter and transportation) and other necessities, but you're saying no to all the extras.

    How to cut down on spending? ›

    Here are some tips that could help you reduce expenses and put more of those $1 bills in your wallet.
    1. Start Tracking Your Spending Habits. ...
    2. Get on a Budget. ...
    3. Cancel Unnecessary or Unused Subscriptions. ...
    4. Reduce Electricity Use. ...
    5. Prioritize Sustainability. ...
    6. Reduce Your Housing Expenses. ...
    7. Consolidate Your Debt and Lower Interest Rates.
    Jun 20, 2024

    What are the 5 things to buy to be happier? ›

    After basic needs are met, science confirms that intentional purchasing in areas like experiences, health activities, time efficiency services, hobbies, and education provides more well-being than material goods.

    How to live on very little money? ›

    Tips to help you live below your means
    1. Create a plan for your money. The act of assigning a job for every dollar can be empowering. ...
    2. Automate your savings. ...
    3. Pay yourself. ...
    4. Live off one income if possible. ...
    5. Look for ways to lower your discretionary expenses. ...
    6. Reflect on your financial habits. ...
    7. Drive used. ...
    8. Pay less interest.
    Jul 10, 2024

    How to fix a spending problem? ›

    Nine ways to tackle compulsive spending
    1. Get to know your spending triggers. ...
    2. Track your spending. ...
    3. Work out your reasons for buying something. ...
    4. Control how you use your card. ...
    5. Avoid temptation. ...
    6. Get your retail highs another way. ...
    7. Set a realistic budget. ...
    8. Get help from a friend.

    What is a normal amount of money to spend each month? ›

    Monthly expenses list. According to the same 2022 BLS study, the average American's monthly expenses are $6,080, 1 which is about 77% of the average monthly income before taxes. This list of expenses covers everything from housing, health insurance and food to entertainment, personal care products and books.

    How do I stop overspending every month? ›

    How to Stop Spending Money
    1. Know what you're spending money on. ...
    2. Make your budget work for you. ...
    3. Shop with a goal in mind. ...
    4. Stop spending money at restaurants. ...
    5. Resist sales. ...
    6. Swear off debt. ...
    7. Delay gratification. ...
    8. Challenge yourself to reach your new goals.
    May 31, 2024

    How to budget $5,000 a month? ›

    If you bring home $5,000 after-tax each month, according to the rule you'd split your income as follows:
    1. $2,500: 50% of your income, is allocated towards necessities — rent, utilities and groceries.
    2. $1,500: 30% of your income, is allocated towards things you want, whether it's the latest iPhone or a fresh outfit.

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