20 Things I Stopped Buying to Save Money

We’ve all been guilty of buying things we don’t really need, right? It’s so easy to swipe a card or tap your phone, and before you know it, those little purchases add up.

I didn’t realize how much I was spending on things that didn’t really improve my life until I decided to take a closer look. Once I started paying attention, I found so many areas where I could cut back without even feeling deprived.

The funny thing is, when I stopped buying certain things, not only did I save money, but I also felt lighter. It’s almost as if clearing out those unnecessary expenses helped me focus on what actually brings joy and value into my life. I’m not saying I gave up everything fun or became a hermit, but I learned how to spend money more wisely.

So, if you’re looking to save some serious cash, here are 20 things I stopped buying that have made a huge difference. Trust me, once you let go of these expenses, your bank account will thank you!

1. Coffee Shop Drinks

I used to be the person who couldn’t start the day without a $5 coffee from my favorite café. It was part of my morning routine, and I convinced myself it was a necessary indulgence. But when I did the math, I realized I was spending over $100 a month on coffee alone! That’s $1,200 a year—on coffee!

Instead of giving it up completely, I bought a good coffee maker and learned to make my own fancy drinks at home. Now, I spend a fraction of the cost, and honestly, I enjoy my coffee even more because I get to experiment with flavors and froth my milk just the way I like it. Plus, I can drink it in my PJs!

The best part is, I don’t feel like I’m missing out. Sure, I still go to a café once in a while for a treat, but cutting back on those daily trips has been a huge money-saver. And let’s be real—homemade coffee tastes just as good, if not better, when you know how much you’re saving.

2. Fast Fashion Trends

Fast fashion was a guilty pleasure of mine for years. I loved browsing through new collections and picking up trendy pieces on sale. But the excitement of scoring a “deal” faded quickly when I realized that most of these clothes were poor quality and went out of style faster than I could wear them. It felt like a revolving door of cheap clothing that added clutter to my closet and drained my wallet.

I started buying less but opting for higher-quality pieces that last longer and stay in style. Sure, the upfront cost might be higher, but I’m not replacing my clothes every few months anymore. I also love that I’m supporting sustainable brands and being more mindful about my fashion choices.

By focusing on quality over quantity, I’ve built a wardrobe that I actually love and wear regularly. And here’s the bonus—I’m not spending money on clothes every time I see a sale notification pop up. It’s a win for my bank account and my closet.

3. Bottled Water

I used to buy bottled water all the time, thinking it was more convenient or even healthier. But when I added up the cost, I was shocked at how much I was spending on something that literally comes out of the tap. It seemed so wasteful, not to mention all the plastic I was throwing away.

I invested in a reusable water bottle and a good water filter, and now I drink tap water wherever I go. It’s not only cheaper, but I also feel good about cutting down on plastic waste. Plus, a good insulated water bottle keeps my water colder longer than those flimsy plastic bottles ever did.

If you’re still buying bottled water, I highly recommend making the switch. It’s such an easy change, and you’ll save more money than you realize. Also, having your water bottle with you makes it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day—double win!

4. Single-Use Cleaning Products

I used to buy all kinds of single-use cleaning products, like those disinfectant wipes and disposable dusters. They seemed convenient at first, but over time, they became a major money pit. Every time I ran out, I had to stock up again, and the costs added up quickly.

So, I switched to reusable alternatives. Now I use microfiber cloths, which I can wash and reuse, and a good multi-surface cleaner that works for almost everything. It feels good knowing I’m not constantly throwing away products after just one use, and my cleaning routine is just as effective, if not more so.

It’s amazing how much you can save by opting for reusable items instead of single-use ones. It’s better for the environment too, so it’s a small change that makes a big difference all around.

5. Subscriptions I Don’t Use

I had so many random subscriptions that I signed up for and totally forgot about. There were streaming services, digital magazines, even a meal prep app I used maybe twice. The problem was that each one was just a few bucks a month, so I didn’t notice them until I looked at my bank statement.

After realizing how much I was spending on services I barely used, I canceled most of them. Now I only keep the ones I actually use regularly and get value from. It’s funny how those little $5 or $10 charges can really sneak up on you over time, but once they’re gone, you hardly notice.

I’d definitely recommend doing a subscription audit if you haven’t already. It feels good to cut out the unnecessary ones and see that extra money stay in your account.

6. Takeout and Food Delivery

Takeout was my go-to on lazy nights when I didn’t feel like cooking. But it wasn’t just the cost of the food itself—the delivery fees and tips quickly made this a pricey habit. I started to notice how much more I was spending on delivery compared to what it would cost to make a similar meal at home.

So, I set a goal to limit takeout to once a week, and I started meal prepping for the rest of the week. Not only has this saved me a ton of money, but I’ve also become a much better cook! I even enjoy cooking now because I know it’s healthier and more affordable.

The occasional takeout is still a treat, but cutting it out as a regular expense has made a noticeable difference in my budget. Plus, when I do order in, it feels more special than when I was doing it multiple times a week.

7. Overpriced Skincare Products

I used to be a sucker for expensive skincare products. I thought that the higher the price, the better the product must be for my skin. But after trying countless lotions, serums, and masks, I realized most of them weren’t any better than the more affordable brands.

Now, I stick to a simple skincare routine with a few trusted products that actually work for me. I’ve learned that good skincare doesn’t have to break the bank—sometimes it’s just about finding what works for your skin type and sticking with it.

My skin looks just as good (if not better) now that I’m not constantly switching products. And I’ve saved a ton by avoiding the hype around pricey beauty brands.

8. Fancy Gym Memberships

For a while, I had a gym membership that cost way more than I care to admit. I convinced myself that because it had all the bells and whistles—sauna, pool, and fancy machines—it was worth it. But the truth is, I wasn’t using half of what the gym offered. Most days, I only went for a quick cardio session or to lift some weights.

I realized I could do most of my workouts at home or outside for free. So, I canceled my expensive membership and started following online workout programs. I invested in a few basic pieces of equipment like resistance bands and dumbbells, and now I work out from the comfort of my living room.

Not only has this saved me a ton of money, but I’ve found it way more convenient. No more commuting to the gym or waiting for machines—just a quick, efficient workout on my own time. And if I really feel like hitting the gym, I opt for a much more affordable, no-frills membership.

9. Impulse Purchases

Impulse buying was something I didn’t even realize I was doing as much as I was. I’d be out shopping or scrolling online, and something would catch my eye—a cute top, a kitchen gadget, or some random home decor item. The next thing I knew, it was in my cart, and I was checking out without a second thought.

Once I became more intentional about my spending, I made a rule for myself: no more impulse buys. If I see something I like, I give it a day or two to think about whether I actually need it. Nine times out of ten, I realize I don’t. That little cooling-off period has saved me from countless unnecessary purchases.

It’s amazing how much you can save just by being mindful and pausing before buying something. Plus, my home is less cluttered now that I’m not filling it with stuff I don’t need. It’s been a total game-changer for my finances and my mindset around spending.

10. Trendy Tech Gadgets

I used to be obsessed with getting the latest tech gadgets. Whether it was the newest smartphone, smartwatch, or even a fancy blender, I wanted the best of the best. But the truth is, half of those gadgets weren’t really improving my life. After the novelty wore off, they often ended up collecting dust or getting replaced by something newer.

Now, I only buy tech when I genuinely need it and do my research to find something that fits my needs without going overboard. I’ve realized that just because something is new or trendy doesn’t mean it’s better. Sometimes the older version or a simpler model is more than enough.

By resisting the urge to upgrade all the time, I’ve saved hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Plus, I’m no longer trapped in that constant cycle of needing the next big thing, which feels pretty freeing.

11. Pre-Packaged Snacks

I used to load up on pre-packaged snacks every time I went grocery shopping. It was just so convenient to grab a bag of chips or a granola bar when I was on the go. But those little snacks added up fast, both in cost and in waste. Not to mention, they weren’t the healthiest choices.

I started making my own snacks at home, like trail mix, energy balls, and veggie chips. It takes a little more time, but it’s so much cheaper and healthier. Plus, I can make bigger batches and control exactly what goes into them, which is a nice bonus.

Now, I rarely buy pre-packaged snacks, and I don’t even miss them. My homemade versions taste better, and I feel good knowing I’m saving money and eating healthier. It’s one of those small changes that has made a big impact on my budget and my lifestyle.

12. Seasonal Decorations

I used to love decking out my house for every holiday—Halloween, Christmas, Easter, you name it. But after a few years, I realized I was spending way too much money on decorations that only got used for a few weeks before getting packed away again. My storage closet was overflowing with decor, and my wallet was feeling the strain.

Instead of buying new decorations every season, I decided to stick with a few timeless pieces that I can reuse year after year. I also started getting creative with DIY decorations using things I already have around the house or picking up a few supplies from the dollar store.

Now, I enjoy decorating just as much, but I’m spending way less. It feels good to know that I’m not constantly shelling out money for seasonal stuff that I don’t even have room to store. Plus, DIY projects can be really fun and make your space feel more personal and unique.

13. Brand-Name Groceries

For the longest time, I was convinced that brand-name groceries were better than the store-brand alternatives. But then one day, I decided to give store brands a try, and guess what? Most of the time, I couldn’t even tell the difference in taste or quality.

Now, I regularly buy store-brand items for things like cereal, pasta, canned goods, and snacks. The savings are pretty significant when you consider how many groceries we go through in a month. Just making that switch has freed up extra money in my budget for other things.

And here’s the thing—if there’s a brand-name product that I truly prefer, I’ll still buy it. But for most items, I’ve learned that store brands are just as good, and my grocery bill is a lot lower because of it. It’s one of those simple changes that adds up over time.

14. Expensive Beauty Treatments

I used to splurge on all kinds of beauty treatments—manicures, facials, hair treatments, you name it. While it was nice to pamper myself, those salon visits started adding up fast, and I realized I was spending way more than I needed to.

So, I started doing more beauty treatments at home. I bought a few good-quality products, like a nail kit and a face mask, and learned how to do my own treatments. It’s honestly been fun learning new techniques and getting creative with at-home spa days. Plus, I can pamper myself whenever I want without spending a fortune.

Now, I only go to the salon for special occasions or when I really need a professional touch. I’m saving so much money, and I still feel like I’m taking care of myself without breaking the bank.

15. Cable TV

Cutting the cord was one of the best financial decisions I ever made. I was paying a ridiculous amount for cable, but I realized I was only watching a handful of channels. Everything else was just fluff. Plus, with all the streaming services available, cable started to feel like an unnecessary expense.

I switched to a couple of streaming services that cost way less than my old cable bill, and now I can watch exactly what I want, when I want. The flexibility is great, and I don’t miss having a hundred channels that I never watched.

If you haven’t made the switch yet, I highly recommend it. It’s such an easy way to save a significant chunk of money every month. And with all the content available on streaming platforms, you’ll hardly notice cable is gone.

16. Name-Brand Medications

I used to automatically grab name-brand medications whenever I needed something over-the-counter. It wasn’t until a friend pointed out that generic versions often have the exact same ingredients that I realized how much extra money I was spending for a brand name.

Now, I always opt for the generic version unless there’s a specific reason not to. Whether it’s pain relievers, allergy meds, or cold medicine, the generic options work just as well and cost a fraction of the price. The savings might seem small at first, but over time, it really adds up—especially when you consider how often we all reach for these everyday essentials.

It’s such an easy switch to make, and I love knowing that I’m getting the same relief without paying for the fancy packaging. If you haven’t made the switch to generic medications yet, it’s definitely worth giving it a try.

17. Disposable Razors

Disposable razors were another small expense that seemed insignificant at first, but when I added up how often I was buying them, it became clear that this was an area where I could easily cut costs. Not to mention, the quality of disposable razors just wasn’t great—they dulled quickly, and I was constantly throwing them away.

I switched to a safety razor, which has been a total game-changer. The upfront cost was higher, but the blades are super cheap, and they last so much longer than disposable razors. Plus, the shave is smoother, and I feel good about cutting down on plastic waste.

It’s a small change, but it’s made a big impact on both my wallet and my shaving routine. I highly recommend making the switch if you’re still using disposable razors—it’s more affordable in the long run and better for the environment.

18. Cheap, Low-Quality Furniture

I used to fall into the trap of buying cheap furniture because it seemed like a great deal at the time. But after a few months, I’d start to notice the wear and tear, and I’d end up having to replace it. Looking back, I realize I wasted so much money buying low-quality items that didn’t last.

Now, I’m more intentional about investing in higher-quality furniture that will stand the test of time. It might cost more upfront, but I’m not constantly replacing broken or worn-out pieces, which saves me money in the long run. Plus, good furniture just feels better and adds a lot more value to your home.

I’m not saying you need to go out and buy designer pieces, but finding a balance between price and quality has made a huge difference in how I spend on home items. It’s one of those areas where spending a little more upfront really pays off down the road.

19. Souvenirs from Every Vacation

Whenever I traveled, I felt the need to buy a souvenir from every place I visited. It seemed like a fun way to remember my trips, but after a while, I ended up with a bunch of random trinkets that didn’t really hold much meaning for me. Worse, I spent money on things I didn’t even have space for in my home.

I’ve since stopped buying souvenirs just for the sake of it. Instead, I focus on experiences while I’m traveling, like taking photos or journaling about my trip. If I do buy something, it’s because it has a special connection to the place or holds sentimental value.

Not only has this saved me money, but I also appreciate the memories of my trips even more. I’ve found that experiences are much more valuable than material souvenirs, and now I don’t come home with a suitcase full of things I don’t need.

20. Greeting Cards for Every Occasion

I used to buy a greeting card for every holiday, birthday, or event, but when I realized how expensive cards had become, I decided to rethink that habit. Spending $5 or more on a card that someone reads once and then tosses in a drawer didn’t seem like the best use of my money.

Now, I make my own cards or skip them altogether and write a heartfelt note instead. I’ve found that people appreciate a personal message much more than a generic card from the store. Plus, I enjoy the process of creating something meaningful for the people I care about.

Cutting back on greeting cards has been a small but significant way to save money, and it feels more thoughtful to send something personalized. It’s amazing how those little costs can add up, but once you cut them out, you don’t even miss them.

Conclusion

Looking back, I’m amazed at how many unnecessary things I used to spend money on without even realizing it. Cutting out these 20 items has made a huge difference in my budget, and I don’t feel like I’ve sacrificed anything. In fact, I’ve gained a lot—more savings, less clutter, and a better understanding of what truly adds value to my life.

If you’re looking for ways to save money, I highly recommend taking a closer look at your spending habits. You might be surprised at how much you can cut out without feeling like you’re missing out. The key is to focus on what really matters and let go of the rest.

Saving money doesn’t have to be painful or restrictive. It’s all about making small, mindful changes that add up over time. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!

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