8 Less Common Ideas to Spend Less and Save More Everyday

[@Midwestmomvolunteer365]

One thing I have started doing, is to make myself an errand beverage. I would previously stop and get a drink and or a snack while I was out doing errands. Now I make a coffee at home and eat a snack before I leave. Seems like a small thing but twice a week it was 10.00 that is 40.00 a month.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That's a great idea!

[@preparingformountainlife]

I always take a bottle of water in my bag when I go out just so I won't cave to the cold beverage section of what ever store I go into.

[@parkemock4253]

I keep snacks in the glove compartment of my car in case I am suddenly"starving."

[@TraceyBergum]

Its actually $43.00 there are 52 weeks in a year every month is an average of 4.3 weeks, so you're saving even more than you thought : )

[@homesteadingwithapurpose9681]

I keep a small snack bag ready to grab as we go out.

[@hollywalton5343]

Every day i check my bank acct and anything over an even number i transfer to a separate savings. So if my balance was 143.27, i would transfer 3.27. it builds quickly and without any sacrifice.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Wow, that's a great idea!

[@ruthiesthisthatfamily]

I love that idea. I've been transferring the change to a different account, and now I will borrow your idea😊. God bless.

[@missmrice91]

Wow!! Nice 💰

[@rosiebottom3870]

I do the same - I never miss the money.

[@lindagonzalez4712]

I do this, and it does add up!!

[@uberbubble]

My "weird" thing is pretending to have a vice. My mother smoked like a chimney even though we weren't affluent enough to pay for it and she somehow always found the funds. I tell myself I "need" it, crave it so bad it needs to be my first priority, and put $20 in a savings account. I set a reminder to tell myself it's time for a "smoke break" and send that money there and then, I need to pay for the vice and live on what's left. Not smoking saves me thousands but I wouldn't even notice if I wasn't pretending to pay.

[@MsJackalMoon]

This is excellent!!! 👏🏻👏🏻

[@sophiahayward577]

That is so genius

[@kathypeterman2886]

One good guideline for me to save money is to have water as the default drink if I do choose to eat out. Cocktails, coffee, soft drinks or other beverages add up more than we think and I prefer to eat vs drink my calories.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Kathy, thank you! This is a great tip to follow.

[@Iquey]

I'm the same way! Its easier to keep weight off if you have to chew your calories instead of just sipping and swallowing them.

[@cjhoward409]

My hubby and I do the same. Did this last night. The restaurant charges $3.50 for a soft drink. Yes, free refills but I couldn’t drink more than one and I don’t drink soda anyway.

[@createone100]

Me too!

[@downtoearth1950]

Never ever grocery shop with an empty stomach! Temptation makes you buy more! Always use a list and stick to it.

[@terryhenderson424]

I actively use my change rather than drop it in a jar. Using up my change keeps me from breaking bills be they $1 or $20 dollar bills. The bills count up better and once broken they seem to spend all the faster too.

[@silviahoffmann158]

👍 I do that too

[@cjhoward409]

I hate breaking a $20 bill. Seems like when you do, the whole thing is gone 😮

[@cynthiajohnston424]

My treat is a rare Starbucks frappuccino so I save my change in a S.cup & then get a small frap. only if there's enough change on hand - never use bills ! Also downsized the cup amount . 🥤💙

[@jimmiepatrum]

@@cynthiajohnston424 Great idea. I bet the frappuccino tastes even better when you've saved for it. Diane

[@Msibme]

One thing that I have done is, in January, I pay a bit extra on my bills each month. I do this every month. by the time December comes round I have a free month and can pay for Christmas. Another is, if I go out to eat or spend money ... what I call frivolously, I put the same amount in savings. Both of these tactics are then also available if an emergency occurs or a forgotten bill.

[@CrystalRaye]

It's so refreshing to hear new and different frugal tips that aren't the same ones we've heard over and over on a million other channels. The one about filling a leftover container BEFORE eating a meal is genius!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Crystal, thank you so much! ❤️

[@Zuzia-l5b]

That first tip is awsome. Not just for savings, but for the portion control. I think we all need that❤

[@sparker7768]

Yes! In our home, my children are welcome to grab some cut up veggies or fruit instead of second helpings. Besides saving money, I don't like cooking two and three days in a row!

[@summerbaby4600]

I always keep a little snack in my purse, and in my car. So to avoid unplanned shopping when I’m out and about.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That's a great idea!

[@margmary53]

I am very careful what I keep in my car in winter. I once broke a tooth on a solidly frozen granola bar. Oops. But I do try to "travel" (even around town) with a snack or snacks.

[@summerbaby4600]

@@margmary53 Oh no! 🥶🥶🥶

[@carlaadams1386]

Mee, too.

[@laundrygoddess4]

I have an emergency protein bar in my purse at all times.

[@laurennguyen1008]

You're right about convenience food. I spent a lot buying take out because I had a long commute for years. I'm retired now and see my daughter with a long commute who meal plans her lunch and has Costco convenience foods for whenever she doesn't want to spend a lot of time cooking dinner. She prioritizes exercise after work. I never did any of that and she certainly has a healthier life than I did.

[@stefs3460]

It was nice to be validated for this because I felt guilty about my microwave stuff for work. Usually we have lunch provided so on the few days we don't instead of running to the store or fast food I have microwavable soup in the car that I bought on sale

[@Dana-ml7sy]

When I meal prep I put sticks of carrots & celery & humus dip packs in a bag in my fridge ready for snacking. I change it out for apples/grapes & a small cube of cheese or healthy chocolate & nuts bars. These can be grabbed when you have to go out along with a bottle of water. Helps my diet & my purse. Convenience foods for me means ready prepared meals in my freezer. I do eat out.

[@combatduckie]

the convenience food part is so important. I cannot count the times i used to mess up an entire 2 weeks of frugally saving money by just one "weak moment" after an exhaustive day or when i got ill and could not bring up enough energy to cook a meal from scratch so i ended up ordering one vegan pizza from a delivery service ....and 30 Euros of money saved gone.....

[@l.5832]

When I have a pay period with fewer than usual expenses, I take a few dollars to the dollar store and buy some cans of beefaroni, ravioli, etc. Then if I have an unusually expensive pay period a can't buy many groceries or I am very tired or feeling poorly I can put together something to eat easily. I haven't eaten restaurant food in 7 years and I don't miss it because I don't even think of it.

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

This may look tacky....but you can hide it too. When I find a place that has the cheapest price on something....instead of trying to remember where I got it, I use a sharpy and write on the bottle or container the name of the store. Saves my brain cells time from trying to remember or making lists. Also...as it is getting empty, I had that store to my list and what it is I need from there.

[@jsimp4050]

#9 Catch the flu, like I have right now. I haven’t spent 1 penny, because I’m too sick to leave the house and to tired to online shop. I’m saving all kinds of money this week.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Oh no! I am so sorry. I wish you a speedy recovery.

[@SusieQZee]

And losing weight! -that’s always MY silver lining when I get sick. 😂 Feel better soon!

[@ShadareaRapt]

lol you're a natural comedian

[@cynthiajohnston424]

Hope you're doing well ! During Covid , I rarely left the house & most places , stores , restaurants , etc. here in the US were closed for months , that I spent very little money ; my " splurge " was ordering used books on line . 📚💙 My husband , whose job was classified as an essential & had to drive (💲gas & meals etc. ) , often commented how little I spent on gas , groceries , extras , etc. during this time ; I've since tried to continue the mind set fr. those months to now save time & money - it helps ! Live & learn , right ? ! 🥰

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

Oh yes so true!! Great sense of humor will get you healed fast!!!!lllol Drink lemon rind water and bless your water. Two aspirin and vit c with strong coffee. Bone soup when you can get to it to revitalize your body. Very simple but it will shock your system and your mind. Trust

[@jessicamonday7966]

This may be a little strange, but when hubby and i go out to Mexican food, we get full on salsa and chips, and take our food home and it lasts us for a couple of days.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Jessica, that is genius, not strange! I can get full on those chips, too 😊. They are delicious!

[@karinshuler7108]

Olive Garden gives you bread and salad to fill up on, take the main meal home

[@thankfulandthrifty]

One thing that has saved us thousands of dollars over the years is having our teeth cleaned/xrayed by students at a dental hygiene school. It takes longer, but they do a better job and the savings is crazy. In NC, we went to GTCC in Jamestown and paid only $5 each. They did sealants on my kids too. Now we are in Maine and go to the dental clinic at UMA in Bangor. The cost is $50 each for cleaning and xrays, but that is still way less than I pay at my dentist!

[@snapdragon2441]

I used student osteopaths whilst my daughter was studying at the Same university. Really good value, long in-depth appointments and everything over seen by a very experienced tutor. My daughter is now qualified so I get it for free 👍

[@SpiritWolf209]

I did this a few times. Absolutely here.

[@marymalinowski9563]

Yes, A Google Notes App Tutorial would be appreciated!

[@tanyajohnston8262]

I thrift for home decor, crafts, clothing, furniture and if new, gifts. I have cut back on laundry by using the same bath towel all week. I’m clean when I get out of the shower so the towel is clean when hung after to dry. I don’t eat out other than about once every 6 months, I don’t buy drinks like coffee, I make my own and when I do eat out I don’t buy drinks, I drink water. I often take snacks or fruit in the car if I know I’m going to be hungry before I get home. I put less laundry detergent in washing. I look for food on half price if I can eat it right away or freeze it.

[@ritastutler1470]

I feel the same way..we are clean so the towel is not dirty. Our water bill is high because we have a high base rate..but every bit helps.

[@JudyRamirez-f4p]

If you add on an extra few dollars to your utilities you will have a credit balance at the end of the year. Take that amount and turn it over to start a bigger balance or a modest gift for you 🎉😅😅😅

[@stowie7733]

All year long I save any $1 & $5’s that I receive. At the end of the year all funds saved go to Christmas gifts. I don’t count it out until after Thanksgiving. I also save all my coins throughout the year and my grandsons help me roll them up. We cash them in and they use the funds to buy their mom a Christmas present. My bank does the save the change automatically whenever I use my bank card.

[@cherrysmith-condon2425]

Love your idea I will definitely do this, thanks

[@MaxineCourt]

For years I have saved gold coins and $5 notes and put in a money tin that we cannot get into. We usually take a trip in December for a few days, the money in the tin (usually anywhere between $1000 - $1300) pays for our expenses whilst away, it's a great treat for us and something we look forward to :)

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That's fantastic!

[@susanconnolly2013]

We like to support our local restaurants, but it's so expensive & the meals are so large. We order our meal to arrive in a cardboard to-go box We eat half & take the second half home for a later meal. No need to request a box later, no eating more than half and no need to transfer to the to-go box later on.

[@susanconnolly2013]

Never lose another sock: Before you put your new socks away, pin them together with a hidden safety pin. Leave it there as you wear them, wash & dry them, and return them to the drawer. Works perfectly; I've been doing for 30 years!

[@lindagonzalez4712]

I save all $1 and $5 bills thru out the year and take it to the bank and trade it for bigger bills and use it for Christmas gifts have been doing this for 4 years it feels good not to use credit cards... this year, I saved $1300

[@Goldzwiebel]

When it comes to eating, it also helps to use smaller plates and cups. Here in Central Europe, children's dishes are the size that an adult should take. I myself have put my large plates away so that I don't automatically grab them. In general, I would suggest slowly reducing the portions until you reach the "child size". Eating half as much is not only healthy, it also costs half as much.

[@candy2325]

I’m slowly practicing this 😅 it’s definitely a psychological thing and it works

[@janefromthecountry1820]

I always use a smaller plate or bowl- asking spouse to do same. Eating a bit less is healthier.

[@jimmiepatrum]

I've been using child size plates for years. I especially like the divided ones. It truly does help me eat less. Diane

[@sophiahayward577]

I just put my dinner plates on the top shelf of my cupboard 😂 thanks ❤

[@PhilipLenahan]

When going out to lunch/dinner and then to another activity (concert, etc) we bring along an ice chest with ice blocks for any possible leftovers. It’s also great for storing cold drinks or snacks when running long errands with kids or yourself.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

Just a though, join restaurant loyalty programs, pay with discounted restaurant gift cards (that you buy with a points credit card) and keep a list handy of restaurants that offer free kid meals during different days of the week.😊

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

I freeze drinking water to keep things cold After some time, the stuff is still cold and the water is still cool to drink.

[@rebeccas8476]

Hi. New to your channel. Great video! My tip: Buy only quality clothes, like you mentioned about the per wear use. I used to only buy from clearance sections and had a closet full of clothes. But I was never happy when I looked in the mirror. Now I only buy things really enjoy wearing, that fit me, are comfortable and flattering. Now, instead of 10 pairs of $15 dress pants, I have 2 pair of $100 dress pants that I feel fabulous wearing. To me that’s being frugal versus cheap.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Rebecca, thank you for sharing this! I was the same way, and now that I buy less but quality, I'm way happier with what I have.

[@terryhenderson424]

I recommend looking at the convience food on your shelves but also taking a check upon what you actually reach for THEN borrow from the prepper and frugality folks to make your own. Many years ago now when the Jiffy cornbread mixes both went up in price and got smaller (its not a new phenomenon) I got incensed enough to find a recipe that produced a similar cornbread. Then I saved some (6 in my case) glass spaghetti sauce jars, washed them, let them dry completely, and spent about a half hour in total to make my own dry ingredient mix. I got out and lined up the ingredients, lined up my jars, got out my funnel and measuring tools. Then I went down the the line of jars measuring 1 ingredient into each, came back and measured the 2nd into each jar down the line, and so on. For myself, I use permanent marker on glass jars (rubbing alcohol or also acetone takes it off if needed) and tape with perma marker on plastic containers. Getting put the ingredients, measuring, labeling, and putting things away took me at most 1/2 hour. Try it, you'll like it. Identify things like gravy packets, taco seasoning mixes (pick a recipe that includes cornstarch), boxes with a starch (rice, pasta, potatoes), salad dressing packets, and the like. Google some recipes using: the words "copy cat", "diy", "from scratch"; maybe the brand you prefer; and the food you want to create. Decide which is doable skill, time, tools and equipment, and existing pantry shelf ingredient wise. Work with one, then add a second, and the next thing you know you'll be cooking from scratch with convience.

[@hopeup2792]

Awesome idea, not only to save but in the event you don’t have access to items you can create your own especially season packets if you garden you can create tasty meals using your herb garden and a dehydrator. Those seasoning packets have gone up in price.

[@terryhenderson424]

@@hopeup2792 Yes , let me talk about taco seasoning packets: I moved from packets to putting seasonings in the skillet at the time of cooking to cut down on salt. In 2021 and 2022, I returned to more of a prepping approach and thinking that making my own equivalent packets complete with corn starch would be a good idea. So I bought ready-made packets of a couple of different brands to reacquaint myself; I even followed the directions. Long gone were the 4/$1 sales by then and last I peeked at a shelf the slightly bigger packet was close to $2 (granted it wasn't the bargain store and there was no sale)!.

[@johnsyler8580]

Great video. Straight information and no annoying music or attempt at being a comedian.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thanks, John!

[@stephanieblaylock1]

I always keep stuff to make a quick chili on hand. I keep ground beef, chili seasoning packets, canned tomatoes, canned beans, and tomatoe sauce stacked together in the cabinet. It's not a slow cooked chili, but a good dinner that can be thrown together in about 15 minutes in one pan.

[@SusieQZee]

I do the same and add ground beef. It’s super healthy and hardy!

[@stephanieblaylock1]

@@SusieQZee that's exactly why I keep it on hand. With five mouths to feed those are priorities. Especially when they're hungry two hours later if it's not hearty. 🤣

[@cjhoward409]

Pinterest has some great recipes to making your own “pre” packaged seasoning packets. I make my own chili, ranch and Italian seasoning mixes ahead of time. And I had saved those glass Starbucks coffee containers. They make great seasoning storage containers

[@stephanieblaylock1]

@@cjhoward409 I've made several seasonings on my own and we don't like them as much. Especially my husband. He was raised on highly processed foods so he rarely likes them. The only one I make is ranch. That's because my daughter can't have dairy. And we don't use them often enough to worry about the cost difference.

[@marialeahey5380]

Weigh myself before grocery shopping. Track my costs every morning over my coffee (pairing a less appealing task with a much-anticipated cuppa).

[@rg-mi5hh]

Use a washcloth to dry off on when getting out of the shower. Use two if needed or a handtowel. It makes less towels in the laundry. Saves water.

[@janefromthecountry1820]

😂😂👍🏻

[@janefromthecountry1820]

We use same bath towel all week after a shower before washing. And we share wife and hubby. Less big towels to wash.

[@ginaadair1432]

@@janefromthecountry1820 Just no. But ok, whatever makes your life tolerable.

[@geraldinenaughton1522]

Yes.. I have a towel robe. It absorbs most of the body moisture, use hand towel to dry botyoms of legs and feet. Hang the robe and hand towel to air dry. There not dirty, just had a shower. !!. My towels are white, so I know when they need a wash.

[@MispelledOnPurpose]

If you start canning your own foods then you don't need to buy convenience foods either. Yes it costs a little up front if you don't have any supplies but everything is reusable except for part of the lid. Plus you have control over what goes into your jar, no strange chemicals, etc.

[@jessicamonday7966]

I've been canning, I love it

[@johnsyler8580]

You can buy reusable lids.

[@buzzybee186]

Never ever leave the house without food and water. If its late morning then an iced coffee too. I have an insulated lunch box and even if it's just an apple and a string cheese, edible calories come with me. It's not infrequent that one or two errand turns into a long wait or having to take a detour somewhere else. Resist those open road calories and always be prepared :)

[@sharondunn6513]

thank you for saying it's ok to eat out once in a while. so many of these videos that I watch are so frugal that it takes all the joy out of life and gives me very little to look forward. Anytime I eat out, I order something that I know I can get two meals out of it.

[@danwebb755]

We always pack a drink cooler and a bag of snacks when we know we'll be out and about for a while.

[@snapdragon2441]

Uk here. Not a savings tip but definitely helps with budgeting, I asked my local council to change my council tax bill to 12 monthly payments rather than the standard 10 that is normally arranged. Same amount of tax but smaller portions spread over the whole year.

[@anu_T95]

Interesting. I did not know we could spread council tax over 12 months instead of 10

[@snapdragon2441]

@@anu_T95 yep, I didn’t know either until I looked it up. I applied online and received an automatic reply saying they would contact me to see if I qualify?? They never did, just changed it over straight away for the next months payment.

[@Summerrose400]

I so look forward to putting the council tax money that I don’t have to pay in Feb and March straight into my savings each year. It’s my way of not missing that money as I’m used to paying it each month by DD . Those two months of sliding it into my Premium bonds translate to £500 savings in two months. Plus I may even win the Premium Bonds big prize of £1000,000 !!

[@MusikGirl23]

Some of mine: utilize the library instead of buying books. I invested about three or four years ago now in cloth pads from a local company 😊 and while it isn’t for everyone, it means I haven’t bought feminine hygiene products in years. I also keep my heat lower especially at night, use lower lighting when possible, and make sure my dishwasher and washing machine loads are full. I bought a brita not too too long ago again because my city’s tap water tastes pretty bad, but I definitely didn’t want to be buying bottled water or a huge container thing. I try to buy essential but shelf stable products only on sale, I can’t remember the last time I bought full price shampoo or deodorant/antiperspirant. I don’t go out to movies, haven’t been to one not for work (I worked as a daycare worker for five summers, so a couple of times we had the kids out to a movie) for 18ish years-so the last time was when I was 15. I can either rent it online or find it on a streaming service soon enough. I never really liked going out to movies anyways. A new one I’ve started doing is getting books digitally IF I can’t source it from my local library. As it is often several dollars less than the physical copy, and also takes up less space! I shop food seasonally as much as I can, so in the winter the only berries I’m eating are from the freezer section. I have a small amount ($1500) of credit card I am paying off, so right now I am always putting back the money I spent plus 1-3 dollars more. Gradually chipping away.

[@allikat1352]

I have window "quilts" in my north and east windows. Between the curtains and the blinds. I have insulation board from Homw Depot in my West windows. This keeps the cold and the heat out of our home. With the blow in foam insulation in our house, out heating and cooling bills are ultra low.

[@inthekitchen8842]

I started using the Earthling Co. shampoo bars. At first I thought the bars were pricey, but then I realized one bar lasts me about 3 months! I have thick medium length hair, too. It shocks me how much hair care products have increased in price. Btw, I love how the shampoo bars make my hair feel and look! Worth a try 🎉

[@joanwyatt9945]

I love idea number one. I thought I knew just about every money saving tip but I never thought of this. Thanks!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

🤗

[@starlawalker8106]

Love the tips :-) Getting out storage containers and putting dinner in, is genius!

[@Naomily]

Thank you for the tip about convenience food. Even if it's not the healthiest, money can be saved. Heating frozen pizza often stops there - stick it in the oven, eat when ready. Ordering pizza might include fries or onion rings added on. And maybe a timing to the pizza.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

And stock up on those with coupons from Shopmium and rebates from Fetch or iBotta. Depending on where the deal is add to the savings with discounted gift card. Many rebate sites allow you to link your loyalty card for ease of use. Example: CVS deal, order online through Ibotta (15% rebate), pay with discounted gift card (card bear 12%), 1% discount through credit card to buy gc, CVS 2% spend rebate in extra bucks quarterly, and Fetch or Shopmium $1 off. Big savings! Oh and order for pickup so already paid, easy breezy.

[@Carefreeblkjawn]

One thing me and my boyfriend do is drink at home. Wine is so expensive when you go to a bar so we just buy a $5 bottle wine at our local grocery and drink that before we go out or after we come home

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

If you go out for dinner, some restaurants will serve you your bottle of wine for free Especially if you go often enough where they know you.

[@verenamaharajah6082]

I sure hope the driver doesn’t drink wine before you go out!

[@Carefreeblkjawn]

@@verenamaharajah6082haha oh no we normally ride with friends or just catch an uber 😂

[@elaineoshea9828]

You really don't need convenience foods. Broccoli takes five minutes, pasta takes 10 minutes, sprinkle on parmesan and you have a meal. Minute rice takes 5 minutes. While it's cooking saute chopped onion and peppers, sprinkle parmesan or put a little mozzarella on and run it under the broiler. If you have some leftover meat, shred it and add. Convenience foods take time to heat too and aren't as good

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thanks for the tips!

[@morrisfamily68b]

I save a ton of money by buying greeting cards from the Dollar Tree. They have beautiful name brand cards that normally cost $4-$6 at the other stores.

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

I live in a colder climate so I am not sure if this would work for everyone....but I buy a case of my favorite flavored waters and keep them in the trunk of my car. I also bought a sippy cup type lid to fit the one liter sized bottles. So I always have cold water to drink and it is sippable as I drive without screwing and unscrewing the cap.

[@angelwings1]

Budget for impulse spending 😊

[@lovinglife3954]

Good tips. If you freeze leftovers you will have homemade “convenience food” available. Frozen vegetables are a convenience food AND healthy and nutritious, many times more nutritious than fresh.

[@l.5832]

I haven't bought bread in 30 years. I buy like-new bread machines at thrift stores for just a few dollars and make bread. Easy to use the timer for overnight baking or set to bake while you're at work and return home to fresh made bread. Very inexpensive.

[@HollyHobbie-ll8nq]

For the covenience foods, they are usually frozen.......so, when you make a meal like in your first suggestion, make it into a tv dinner and treat it like one. It is homemade convenience food. Good on a night when you don't feel like cooking, too tired, etc.

[@tinab.1636]

To add to the portion control tip, eating at a slower pace can help with the waistline and the wallet. People typically tend to eat less when they are intuitive in regards to hunger and knowing when full, and intentional when it comes eating. Thank you for the tips!

[@michelesusanne1]

Barter with people who have various skills. For example haircuts, snow removal, lawn services babysitting, house cleaning, cooking/baking, running errands...For Christmas give consumables and service gifts...extra firewood, pie a month, home cooked meal coupons, babysitting, house cleaning, house repairs. Family and friends favorite gifts have been things like replacing a light fixture, fixing a leaky faucet, homemade peanut brittle, driving them to appointments or doing errands, Grandkids singing a song, free babysitting, making a meal. Be creative.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I always carry a bottle of water and almonds.

[@lindadorman2869]

I stopped drinking soda, juice and other expensive beverages. Instead, I brew a huge pot of plain black tea which I drink a cup (hot) in the morning with lemon and honey. Then I chill the rest and mix with other fruit, herbs, spices or seasonings throughout the day. Making your own flavored tea cost next to nothing, keeps you hydrated and allows you to control the ingredients. You can also freeze to make flavored tea ice cubes.

[@jasonjones5728]

Me too I make unsweet black tea at home

[@meenakshi6344]

Thanks for the video. A video on how you use the google notes app will be useful.

[@j.christian6801]

I started eating / cooking at home mid August and I still get together and go out with a few friends to eat on occasions. Not only has this helped me stick to my budget ( which my budget is tight) but I’m loosing weight too . And yes I would love to stop and eat at fast food places .

[@nmartin5551]

Yes. The current economy creates sticker shock every time I buy groceries. So the occasions that I have been out, and the price tag is shocking too. Then the health thing. I have come to the conclusion that almost anything I make and eat at home is probably better for me than the stuff from most places I would eat at.

[@pishi1990]

Cook from scratch, but also get some convenience items. Its shocking how the food expenses add up in a month. I did a cost comparison for an entire year and average savings when you plan ahead and food prep is 62%!!!!

[@lindamcteer]

My daughter just had her hair cut, and I'm noticing that it's exactly the same style as yours and exactly the same color....very pretty! As usual you have fantastic ideas.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you, Linda! Hugs 😊

[@bettykroll]

Check with your stylist about how frequently you need to shampoo your hair. Unless you have excessive oily hair you only need to wash it once a week or every other week. Otherwise just rinse it with water when you shower. I wash mine every 2 weeks. It helps keep your color longer if you have colored hair and shampoo lasts longer. Also, you only need a dime size amount of shampoo. Another tip I learned a long time ago I’d clothes can be washed in cold water. Saves on your utility bill. To help clothes last longer I use a drying rack to air dry my clothes. Check online for a list of how often clothes need to be washed. Jeans for example (Torrid clothing brand recommends) they can be worn at least 5 times unless excessively dirty & washed inside out. Socks, graphic tees, and sweatshirts should also be washed inside out.

[@Frdunsing]

Liked “the age well” advice. Great quality tip.

[@karinshuler7108]

Have some leftovers in the freezer for days when you don't have time to cook. Soup and sandwich is my favorite 'fast food '

[@jamesr1703]

I buy packs of bar towels. They are cheap. Six for $5. I stopped using paper towels. Wash and reuse.

[@angielay3313]

Firstly- your sweater is GORGEOUS!! What brand is it? One of the best ways we save money (we have five daughters) is we keep snacks in our suburban. This has knocked those trips thru the drive thru to zero. Snacks include bags of cheez it’s, beef jerky, granola bars, fruit snacks, bel-vitas. Also bottled water. Utilizing these snacks just one time pays for it all. As a trip to McDonald’s for even a couple of my girls was north of $15.00!!

[@laundrygoddess4]

I make ravioli from scratch. It's my convenience food as all I do it boil it from frozen and then bake it with sauce and cheese. Takes almost no energy but is still homemade and healthier

[@katyalafon9006]

One video idea would be about if you did à home made budget planner out of à cheap notebook...something To simplify budgeting..

[@missmrice91]

Good idea

[@rebeccamapes1157]

I would like the information on how you organize your notes. I agree reinforcement helps

[@mariayelruh]

With restaurant meals, I think how leftovers will be used. Also how well they will reheat. So I'll often eat the veggie, pasta or potato, salad and a little of the protein and take home just a piece of meat. Also my husband and I will sometimes combine leftovers in one container wth an eye for it being the base for lunch for both of us.

[@Nottherebutthere]

Good thought about having guilty convenience foods at home. If you do that, itight not always be the best choice, but it will probably end up cheaper and better quality than going out at the last minute or ordering in of fast foods.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

❤️

[@pavelsmom1089]

Navy shower... quick water, then shut off. Lather, shave then quick rinse. Water is EXPENSIVE in California, so this helps save water and $$$. Also, no running water while brushing teeth... only to wet brush and rinse.

[@lydiabond5393]

Be careful with that one... Built up toothpaste in the P trap is like glue which will clog.

[@RadCenter]

I started using an online app this year to make daily to-do lists for myself. This has saved me a ton of money. Among the things I put on the list are meal planning, grocery shopping, defrosting, and meal prep. If I have a busy week ahead of me, I know I need to do my meal prep ahead of time, or I will fall back into the unhealthy habit of ordering food delivery. I also need reminders to move meats from the freezer to the fridge to thaw so I don't have to defrost them in the microwave, which wastes time, money, and energy.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

This sounds great! What app do you use?

[@RadCenter]

​@@THEJENNIFERCOOK I use the free version of Trello. It helped me complete a house-painting project I'd been putting off for years. I was able to break the project down into daily task lists and check each task off as I completed it, which is super satisfying! I get paralyzed when I try to think of a whole project at once, but tasks like "tape off ceiling and trim" and "spackle holes and cracks" seem much more doable.

[@anneard1674]

sometimes it is cheaper to stop by the 7-11 convince store for that gallon of milk you need than go into Walmart for it... last time I went into regular grocery store for a gallon it cost me $22. Of course it was at the back of the store...Impulse buying along the way is a budget killer

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

Also, my ultra frugal mother surprised me with info that milk was actually cheapest at the dollar general store at the time. Wow! Who knew?

[@cathylingo9521]

I always round up my checking spending. It adds to my cushion and I like round numbers. 😆

[@lilianasaba9846]

Cost per use is interesting. I used to buy toilet paper a brand that i thought was good but I was using 2-3 rolls in ny bathroom. I got another brand for double the price and I am using 1 roll for 6 days. All these tips work. But you need to be prepared. I went through a difficult financial situation that I stopped having cash. I read a bit about financial independence and I found building behaviour takes time but it works. I am more focused when I shop. I plan and budget. I shop veggies once a week and i shop all other things once a month

[@bethanyg153]

I’m quick to take on extra work offered. I teach part-time, but if they call and ask me to sub for an hour, I’m there. My former boss asked me to help him at a seminar he was hosting at my school. I took him up on it. Neighbor asked me to clean out her fridge before the open house. I did it. I’m not one to seek out a lot of extra work, but if someone asks, I’ll do it.

[@JudyRamirez-f4p]

And smile all the way to the piggy bank 😅

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

I take the extra work and instead of taking the money, I bank the time for days off. We all need mental health days or days to catch up on things!

[@atabeyenamorada]

Thank for your videos.

[@bennylawrence6221]

We do the cooler thing anytime we even go to the next town for specialist appointments of any kind - ob/gyn, cardiologist etc I checkout grocery sales for any store NOT in my hometown while I’m waiting and hit those on my way out of town

[@frenchfruga4851]

Good evening jennifer , my first tip about no spending more money consists with not thinking about food , that's not hard to do and i only spent 30€ last friday , i only eat between 12-20 o clock and i feel so relax by eating vegetables 😊

[@vernabryant2894]

You are right about convienence foods at home.

[@conniekline9881]

Great ideas Jennifer! I need to look more for coupons and discounts, and I love the idea about portioning out the food.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Connie, I'm so glad it was helpful 🤗

[@kenyonbissett3512]

Convenience food - sick - Can of Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup + beef Ramen noodles = 4 servings with bread and butter, or 2 hearty servings. Tip from Frugal Fit Mom YTer. All is microwaveable. Soup on sale $1.50 + ramen $0.33=$1.83 + bread and butter .40 x5=$3.83 Ask restaurants to bring leftover’s box when meal is delivered. You can immediately portion it out. Also be sure to join any loyalty program they have and pay with a discounted gift card for best savings.

[@preparingformountainlife]

We use some convenience foods/drinks too...for my highschool student to take drinks and have quick breakfast...saves me money instead of the jiffy store (convenient store).

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Absolutely! It's great for on the go 🤗

[@lynnhayes2363]

One of the grocery stores I'm regularly in, marks down discontinued items by 50%. That's when I buy the frozen dinners (all that they have or I can afford that day). Just be sure it's something your family will eat.

[@sandhyapapineau4008]

I am a fairly new subscriber and I love your content. Thank you for putting out these videos. I have two tips but I am not sure how uncommon they are. (1) use your library (this is dependent on where you are) - I love our local libraries here in Ontario, Canada. We have access to a total of 4 library systems (combination of living in different cities in the past and holding onto our library cards and owning a rental property in a city that is different from where we live) and they have much more than just books. Books are great and one of my favourite hobbies but so is travel and that is a very pricey hobby so I will save where I can! Our library systems have movies and tv shows, puzzles, games (including board games and badminton sets), SEEDS! (to start your summer garden), passes to local, national and provincial parks, and often free events for both kids and adults. (2) surround yourself with frugal materials and people. I listen to this channel and my biggest gain is retraining my mind to see normal = frugal. This is helpful when all your coworkers seem to have a pool! Or "everybody" is going to Disney! Help your mindset majorly by focusing on spending intentionally on the things that matter to you and saving on everything else. Sometimes that means streaming youtube when you are doing some routine tasks so that you can remember your goals!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

This is great! Thank you for sharing 🤗

[@Rosy_corner]

I cook all my dinners, however it’s only recently that I’m putting away the leftovers before I over eat them. It’s been difficult cooking for 4 children and spouse to just me.

[@bex438]

Hey Jennifer! Good to see you 😊 I love your top, purple is my favourite colour 💜 Thanks for all the tips, the one about thinking about what an item will go with especially resonated with me 🤗

[@kellykersten8828]

Having some convenience food in your freezer is smart because if you absolutely don't feel like cooking or don't have the time you can cook that instead of going out.

[@mysustainabilityjourney9321]

Portion control. Great one!

[@alysamorley3570]

I save a ton of money by setting my thermostat at 55 degrees F in the winter and 80 degrees F in the summer. Uncomfortable, but not intolerable. I also stopped buying meat a few years ago to reduce my grocery budget.

[@Bestamourof8]

Thank you for sharing

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you for watching!

[@juliemarkham4332]

I really like your periwinkle sweatshirt! What's the brand name? I agree with the backup convenience food.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Hi Julie, that is a Time and True sweatshirt from Walmart. I have it in several colors. It is so cozy and they usually have them every year.

[@Carolmaizy]

It's a very pretty color!

[@paulahastings7865]

Local college drama department lets senior citizens go to plays free! Tickets are pretty cheap anyway. Check local high school and college for inexpensive intertainment.

[@angelacross2216]

Eggs are one the best/cheapest convenience foods to keep available.

[@cindybledsoe2423]

Outstanding

[@Camille_Lee_Æon]

I have sealed cooler in my vechicle that I stock with snacks and water. That way, if I am out and delayed from having a meal, I have something healthy and know I won't over eat when I get home.

[@maryjothompson4578]

I eat out less often, and make my own cookies, cakes, and quick breads, etc because they are healthier, cheaper, and taste better. My sister and I live close, so we trade off driving to do errands together.

[@midwesthorrorfan5213]

I also round up. It provides a cushion for my checking account. I withdraw it a few times a year to pay extra on something.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

It is a great way to build that cushion 🤗

[@iamkarmenvolmink]

Rainwater collection. Travel beverage hot or cold. Fruit snack. I ask a family member to trim / blow dry my hair. Feels like a pamper. Take a coolerbox with drinks & snacks for kids. We make and take popcorn as a driving snack.

[@marypeterson1053]

Wonderful ideas.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you! 😊

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

I keep the fast food coupons (that I get in the mail) in my car. Yes, it is not very healthy....but if you are GOING to stop anyway...save yourself some money. I also keep ANY coupons I collect in an organizer stored IN THE CAR.....car repair coupons, grocery receipt coupons....all of them stay in the car....so I never forget them at home.

[@heathermatthews7422]

Thank you

[@guyal2332]

I have just discovered yiour vlog and subscribed. Thanks so much for your savvy presentation s. I watch lots of thrift vlogs and yours is really tops. I look forward to more of your great ideas. Keep up the great work, Jessica!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you so much, Jessica! ❤️

[@TraceyBergum]

Great tips, I do a lot of them! You look so pretty in the color of your shirt : )

[@MsDoglover02]

I'd love to see a video on how you use Google notes!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Coming soon!

[@wandahall4435]

Great job ❤❤❤😮😮😮😊😊😊