20 Money Saving Tricks You’ve Never Heard Of

When it comes to saving money, most of us think we’ve heard it all: cut out the daily coffee, skip the takeout, or ditch the cable subscription. But what if there were some lesser-known tricks that could help you save even more? Whether you’re already a budgeting pro or just starting your frugal living journey, there are always new ways to cut costs that might surprise you.

In this article, we’re diving into money-saving tricks you’ve probably never heard of. From adjusting your water heater to buying discounted gift cards, these tips are designed to help you save money in unexpected places. Ready to start saving without sacrificing the things you love? Let’s get started!

1. Use a Smart Thermostat to Save on Energy Bills

Most people know that heating and cooling can take up a big chunk of your energy bill, but did you know that a smart thermostat can save you a significant amount each year? These little devices learn your habits and adjust the temperature when you’re away, making sure you’re not wasting energy.

The best part? Many utility companies offer rebates on smart thermostats, meaning you might not even pay full price for it. Over time, the savings from your reduced energy consumption can add up to hundreds of dollars.

2. Turn Off Unused Subscriptions Automatically

We’ve all been there—signing up for a free trial and forgetting to cancel it. Before you know it, you’re paying for services you don’t even use. A quick fix is to use subscription-tracking apps that automatically remind you when a payment is coming up or, better yet, cancel them for you.

There’s something really satisfying about discovering you’re still paying for a gym membership you haven’t used in months and being able to stop the charges in seconds. You’ll save money instantly without much effort at all!

3. Cash-Back for Groceries with Apps You Didn’t Know About

Most people know about popular cash-back sites, but what if I told you there are grocery-specific apps that give you money back on items you’re already buying? Apps like Ibotta or Fetch Rewards let you scan receipts and get cash back for everyday purchases.

All you have to do is take a picture of your receipt after shopping, and they’ll do the rest. It’s not going to make you rich overnight, but if you’re diligent, those small cash rewards can stack up quickly and help with your grocery budget.

4. Making Your Own Cleaning Supplies

Store-bought cleaning supplies can really add up, especially if you’re purchasing different cleaners for different surfaces. But did you know that you can make effective cleaners at home with just a few simple ingredients? White vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils are the heroes here.

Not only are homemade cleaners cheaper, but they’re also better for the environment. Plus, knowing exactly what’s in your cleaners gives you peace of mind, especially if you have pets or kids at home.

5. Optimize Your Car Insurance Every Six Months

When’s the last time you checked your car insurance rates? If it’s been a while, you might be overpaying. Many people don’t realize that they can shop around and change their car insurance every six months, often locking in a better rate.

Insurance companies are constantly adjusting their rates based on new data, so it’s worth your time to do a little comparison shopping. You can save hundreds of dollars per year by just taking a few minutes to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

6. Buy Discounted Gift Cards for Everyday Purchases

Did you know you can buy discounted gift cards for stores you regularly shop at? Sites like Raise or CardCash offer gift cards at reduced prices—sometimes up to 30% off! This means you can buy a $100 gift card for $70, essentially giving yourself an instant discount on your next purchase.

It’s an easy way to save money on things you were going to buy anyway, whether it’s groceries, clothing, or even dining out. Just make sure the site is reputable and the gift card is for a store you frequent.

7. Create a No-Spend Day Challenge

If you want to curb your spending habits, try creating a “no-spend day” once a week. On this day, commit to not spending any money at all. You’d be surprised at how much you can save just by skipping that daily coffee or opting for a packed lunch instead of takeout.

It might seem small, but these no-spend days can really add up. The beauty of this trick is that it helps you become more mindful of your spending habits and makes saving money a fun challenge rather than a restriction.

8. Switch to a Zero-Based Budget for Maximum Control

A zero-based budget means you assign every dollar a job. Instead of just tracking your spending, you’re actively deciding where your money goes each month, down to the last cent. This method ensures that none of your money is “floating” around unaccounted for.

It’s a fantastic way to get super intentional with your money and often reveals areas where you’re spending more than you need to. By the end of the month, every dollar has gone toward something purposeful, whether it’s bills, savings, or even a little fun money.

9. Get Paid to Test Products You Already Use

Ever thought about getting paid to test products? Companies are always looking for feedback on new items, and they’re willing to compensate you for it. Sites like Pinecone Research offer opportunities to test products in exchange for cash or free items.

It’s a win-win—you get to try out products you might already be interested in, and in return, you get some extra cash or even keep the products. It’s not just for high-tech gadgets either; everyday items like snacks, skincare, and household products are often up for testing.

10. Learn the Power of Loyalty Programs in Unexpected Places

We all know about grocery store loyalty programs, but have you checked out loyalty programs for other places like pharmacies, coffee shops, or even clothing stores? These programs can offer you major savings if you’re a frequent shopper.

What many people don’t realize is that some loyalty programs also offer birthday rewards or special discounts throughout the year. It’s free to sign up, and those little perks can add up over time, giving you savings where you least expect it.

11. Reduce Water Heater Temperature to Cut Utility Costs

One trick that often flies under the radar is reducing your water heater temperature. Most people don’t need their water as hot as it’s set by default. Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees can make a noticeable difference on your monthly utility bill.

You’ll still have hot water, but without the extra energy consumption. This trick is especially useful in larger households, where hot water is used constantly.

12. Refurbished Tech That’s Practically Brand New

When shopping for new gadgets, don’t overlook the refurbished section. Refurbished doesn’t mean “used and broken.” In most cases, it means a product was returned or had a minor defect that’s been fixed, and now it’s almost like new, but at a fraction of the price.

Big retailers like Apple and Amazon offer excellent warranties on their refurbished products, so you’re still covered if something goes wrong. This is an easy way to get top-of-the-line gadgets without the top-of-the-line price.

13. Use Bartering to Get Services and Goods for Free

Bartering might seem like a lost art, but it’s making a comeback, especially in local communities. If you have a skill or service to offer, like babysitting, gardening, or graphic design, you can trade it for something you need—like a haircut or a home repair.

It’s a great way to save money on things you might otherwise pay for, while also building relationships with people in your community. You never know what you might be able to trade for!

14. The Grocery Store Trick: Shop at Closing Time

If you’ve ever gone grocery shopping late at night, you might have noticed some deep discounts on items that are nearing their expiration dates. Many stores mark down fresh produce, bakery items, and meats toward the end of the day to avoid waste.

This trick works best if you can freeze or use items quickly, but it’s an easy way to get fresh food at a fraction of the price. Plus, you’re helping reduce food waste, which is a nice bonus!

15. Buy in Bulk and Share with Friends

Buying in bulk is a classic way to save money, but not everyone needs a 10-pound bag of rice or a gallon of olive oil. The solution? Share your bulk purchases with friends or family. You’ll get the savings without the excess.

Organize a bulk buying group where each person buys a different item in bulk, and then everyone splits it. This way, you can stock up on essentials without worrying about storage space or food going bad before you can use it all.

16. Switch to a Prepaid Phone Plan

Cell phone bills can be a big drain on your budget, but many people don’t realize how much they could save by switching to a prepaid phone plan. Companies like Mint Mobile or Straight Talk offer prepaid plans that give you the same coverage as major carriers but at a much lower price.

With prepaid, you’re not locked into a contract, and you can often find deals that include unlimited talk, text, and data for less than half of what you’d pay with a traditional carrier. It’s worth looking into, especially if you don’t use all the features of your current plan.

17. Utilize Local Libraries for Free Entertainment

Your local library is more than just a place to borrow books. Many libraries now offer free access to e-books, audiobooks, movies, music, and even workshops or events. It’s an incredible resource for free entertainment that many people overlook.

If you’re trying to cut down on entertainment costs, check out what your library has to offer. You might be surprised at the variety of content available, and all without spending a dime.

18. Use Envelope Budgeting for Guilt-Free Savings

Envelope budgeting might seem old school, but it’s one of the best ways to control your spending. The idea is simple: put cash for each budget category (like groceries, entertainment, and dining out) into separate envelopes. Once the cash for a category is gone, you stop spending.

It’s a simple and effective way to make sure you’re not going over budget in any area of your life. The physical act of seeing how much you have left can help you prioritize your spending and eliminate any guilt associated with overspending.

19. Negotiate Your Rent (Yes, You Can Do That!)

Most people don’t realize that rent prices are often negotiable. Whether you’re renewing your lease or looking for a new place, try asking your landlord if they’re open to a lower price or even extra perks like free parking or utilities included.

Landlords would often prefer keeping a good tenant than going through the hassle of finding someone new. You might be surprised at how much you can save just by asking. The worst they can say is no, but if they say yes, you’ll have extra cash in your pocket each month.

20. Leverage Flash Sales and Clearance Cycles Online

Everyone loves a good sale, but did you know that online retailers have predictable clearance cycles and flash sales that you can plan for? By keeping an eye on when certain categories (like electronics or clothing) typically go on sale, you can time your purchases to maximize savings.

There are even apps and browser extensions that will track prices for you and alert you when items you’re interested in hit their lowest point. Flash sales, especially from sites like Amazon or Overstock, can offer deep discounts on high-quality items, saving you a ton of money over time.

Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your lifestyle or missing out on the things you love. With these money-saving tricks, you can find creative ways to cut costs without feeling deprived. Whether it’s adjusting your thermostat, negotiating your rent, or taking advantage of flash sales, these tips are easy to implement and can make a big difference in your budget.

Remember, it’s the small changes that add up over time. By making a few tweaks here and there, you’ll find yourself with extra cash that can go toward your savings goals, paying off debt, or even a fun treat. Start incorporating these strategies today, and watch how quickly your savings grow!

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