10 Things we don't Buy | MONEY SAVING HACKS & MINIMALISM | FRUGAL FIT MOM

Welcome to Frugal Fit Mom and today I am talking about 10 things that we don't buy to save money and live frugally.
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[@FrugalFitMom]

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[@annabelmiller8]

I eat out too much. My husband deployed and I'm home with the 3 under 4. I'm going crazy and making dinner is the last thing I want to do lol. I need to stop. I know. The kids are picky. I don't sleep. It's rough. But I do sometimes get those Texas Roadhouse rolls ordered alone. 1 dozen for $5.99 and a bucket of cinnamon butter curbside pickup. Lol

[@sarahdunder9195]

@@annabelmiller8 God bless you!!!❤❤❤🙏🏼

[@davidmurphy5545]

Outdoor activities are a cheap way of entertainment. Also buy the activity gear at the end of the season for big savings or at a thrift store or garage sales. Envy is the worst of the Seven Deadly Sins.

[@Plushevijtopor]

Ящ

[@swayzieandchinita]

I watched this and said: I already do all of these things. I guess I’m frugal 🧐

[@heathercollazo5203]

Before streaming, I was a single mom and had to skrimp and scrape to make ends meet so I could never afford a luxury like cable. And actually I have never had cable even after getting married and a better career. Anyway, way back when I was a single mom, we rented dvds from the library since library cards were free. We made it our favorite Friday night thing to do. I love love love libraries. They are an under-appreciated resource for free entertainment.

[@ambry99]

I grew up in a lower income household with a single mom. She would always take me and my two siblings to the library for books and movies on the weekends. It was a treat and we loved it there. I will likely do the same if/when I have kids no matter my income level!

[@TickleMeElmo55]

Ditto on the library. In my library you do have to pay for DVDs ($1) and blu-rays ($2) but you get to watch for a weeks time. It's much cheaper then renting off of streaming services which charge about $4 for two days. Also, depending on your library system and where it's located, libraries also offer discounted memberships to places like zoos and camps, and may offer quality academic resources for research projects at the grade and high school level.

[@katreisinger6204]

Not to mention BOOKS to share with kids and grands... and just for self whether fun or educational or both. ❤️

[@leesa9673]

I home schooled my 4 kids. We went to the library every week., and there to the park across the street. My kids loved it. Good times in early 2000's. I feel bad for parents today.

[@kekemonique7976]

When I was a single mom, we owned a vcr and tapes that I purchased from the thrift store. I had also bought an antenna to get local channels. We just recently got KZbin TV and love it. It’s still a lot cheaper than cable

[@jenniferraby250]

I spend absolutely zero dollars eating out bc I just think that it is a waste of money. As a single mom, I can't see spending $30 at a restaurant to feed me and my son when I can buy a family-size pack of chicken, a bag of rice, and veggies and we can eat for the whole week.

[@joannapatterson4625]

For real. The cost of eating out is even more expensive now. I can’t justify the cost anymore. 20 dollars for a burger plus tax. Crazy.

[@denisecurry7472]

True! Hell just for a meal is like $8 ridiculous. I'm not saying that I don't ever go but it's like once a month and only if I'm starving

[@joanrath126]

I can afford the luxury of fully loaded cable TV but think 170.00 month is absolutely rediculous but can't get my husband t give it up,that an his lake lot for the summer an storage sheds as we enter retirement age soon something better give! Would save a ton of money an can be gotten rid of...

[@myrtlebeachsara]

@@joanrath126 I agree that's insanely pricey, we cut cable years ago, so happy! Only pay for Hulu now, 12 dollars and no commercials!

[@evelinholmes6401]

@Jay Bryant the commercials killed cable for me . I have timed it and some 7 minutes and more . By the time the show comes back on you forget the left off. I think everyone should go on strike and maybe the cable companies rethink there strategy.

[@firecrackerraider17]

I switched from Starbucks to drinking Deathwish Coffee at home and my coworkers are shocked that I would spend $20 on a bag of coffee. These are the same people that spend about $20 a week going to Starbucks multiple times though and my one pound bag lasts over a month and has way more caffeine. I even got one coworker to try it and now she and her mom are obsessed. I'd call that a win. 😁

[@sellidionne]

GIRL YOU MADE ME CALCULATE HOW MUCH I SPENT EATING OUT!! $450 IN A MONTH. A MONTH. FOR ONE PERSON. WHAT AM I DOING

[@brieb9750]

I do most of these because my mom was Frugal and Fit too! 💞 Paid off my college debt living at home and then bought my first house by myself at 27 baby. 😎

[@anitas5817]

We love coffee and drink it everyday. We always make our own. It’s delicious. Never understood the attraction for Starbucks - I want my coffee in my robe when I get up! I don’t wanna have to drive somewhere for it.

[@brittanymcdonaldbarr1106]

I was never disappointed by making my own coffee yet I was at times when I purchased elsewhere. More calories for something that wasn’t what I ordered is a big no no for me.

[@pamelachappell1089]

Yes! That is exactly how I feel. :)

[@germyw]

You make such a GREAT point about Disney costing the same as a trip to anywhere in the world! That’s...so disturbing when you think of it. Fake “world” vs. the actual world and they’ve actually convinced people that the former is worth all of that.

[@moxiemae1236]

Disney is so fun though.

[@laceegomel8207]

Not really true, Disney has special deals like free dining all the time. Plus, most of us can drive there. Our family of 6 did several Disney trips including room, tickets, and food for like $5,000. Traveling overseas we would have paid that much for the flights alone.

[@moxiemae1236]

@Chelle Bright That's great for you. I enjoy it.

[@michaellasagna7216]

We love Disney so it’s worth it to us. It’s all about what is important to you. It is an expensive trip compared to other places we can travel too.

[@ForGoodnesSake]

I buy school supplies on sale at the beginning of the school year. I buy 75% off after holiday sales, gift sets especially...I save them for next year or give them as birthday gifts. I bought a $20 water pitcher, which saves me $180 a year from buying bottled water! Plus I started canning, couponing and making my own bread. That's incredible savings and I can pronounce everything that goes into it. My goal is to pay off debt.

[@kimwoodard9788]

My daughter cooks a lot for us. I've told her she has completely ruined us as far as going out to restaurants. There are very few that make anything that tastes as good as her cooking. So I just get her to cook instead of going out. 😁

[@FrugalFitMom]

That is awesome!

[@vanessacray4615]

I love to cook to. Whenever me and my family go out to eat I always try to replicate the meal we loved but maybe a bit healthy and cheaper. Keep in mind we don’t eat out much. Really just for road trips or birthdays or special occasions.

[@cherylT321]

Win, win!

[@elizabethsomoza7109]

Thats me too

[@SummeRain783]

That’s lovely. I make breads, cakes, fresh pasta etc and send it to my parents. I don’t know if I’m really saving them much but they love it.

[@by_camille]

You have to budget for what is important to you. Eating out is an experience and enjoyable, no shame. Support the local economy, enjoy a great meal, what it’s worth is going depend on the person.

[@sewistnotsewer]

Agree. No shade on people who don't eat out, that's fine. But it's a huge part of my world and something I personally enjoy. I do most of the other stuff on her list though - great tips here for sure.

[@rosejacobs4745]

If eating out is enjoyable and a good experience for you, sure. Nothing wrong with that. For me it's just a horrible expense and not very much fun so I eat out maybe 3 times a year.

[@ellierk2880]

I agree, no shame in eating out and enjoying it. When we lived in Manhattan (NYC), and worked full time. The last thing I wanted to do was cook when getting home. So eating out all the time was a normal, relaxing and enjoyable part of our life. Now that we're in a very rural area, work from home, and there's only 1 good restaurant within a 20 mile radius, I cook just about every day. It's all about your lifestyle and what you enjoy.

[@alanareebee]

I liveee for dining out and dates with my hubby. I’m so glad to see this comment :)

[@anyastasia473]

Yes. Particularly eateries that offer daily special discount prices, i.e., a mex rest by us offers special meals for $5.25 with chips n salsa. A different dish each day off of their lunch menu, Mon thru Fri.

[@FloridasYesteryear]

I decided to start making my own clothes. This way I get to wear what I want, how I want it to look, and i am not contributing to fast fashion.

[@BudgetWithJeanette]

I used to spend so much money on Starbucks until I added it up for about 3 months and decided I don’t want to make someone else rich while I consume a whole lotta sugar 😅💜

[@SummeRain783]

Girl save that money and invest in a nice espresso machine then save more

[@marjoriejohnson4559]

I haven't watched TV for 5 years, which ended my addiction to Real Housewives franchise. I watched them ALL. Now I am addicted to free KZbin channels such as yours where I can comment on your content instead of yelling at the TV over the absurdity of "reality tv"

[@tashainjena]

My mom has direct, but I love my KZbin. Although I pay for no commercials...

[@tricarb01]

Here in the UK we have to pay £157 per year for a tv licence! Cable is extra.

[@Evie329]

Yep once we got rid of cable like 7 years ago, haven't watched Bravo since! Lol

[@granitemoss1451]

Funny, I am all in to the RHOC one (the original). I have tried a few of the others but they just don't interest me.

[@kelmike060404]

The only reason I have sling is my Real Housewives addiction

[@olaola3692]

"We don't drink our calories " .... brilliant! Same here 😊😊😊

[@peachybuttercrunch4409]

I like to chew mine.

[@AbbyWoodlandAuthor]

As a single mom on a fixed income, I definitely work on saving money. I never pay full price for anything unless it’s absolutely necessary.

[@tiffzilla7834]

Consider doing Disney during the “off season”!! My husband and I went the week before Christmas one year. Not only did we not wait in any lines, the weather was gorgeous and it was decorated for Christmas! There are characters that only come out at Christmas. It was amazing!

[@brittanymcdonaldbarr1106]

I’ve done this and it was much more enjoyable and I didn’t wait in lines with kids.

[@amandacollins518]

We went the week before Christmas. It is now the busier than any other time. It was insane. But my kids made great memories, and therefore the trip was worth it

[@carmarasmussen8118]

When my husband was out of work for a long time and I had 4 young kids, we did Hamburger Helper a lot out of necessity. I'm grateful we no longer have to do that but I appreciated having that cheap, simple meal in times of scarcity.

[@Wisdom-gc]

we ate helper and tuna help in the military and for 4 we were able to make two meals. we bought a new Camby its paid off early and over 7 years old the best car ever.

[@nicole1184]

Agree ... Cheeseburger Mac all the way.... but all the milk you had to use was a struggle.

[@sherilynalexnder897]

When my kids were younger I always kept a box or two of Helper on hand for those days when I just didn't have time to put multi-ingredient meals together. There for awhile, I was working 60+/week and didn't even have time to go out-to-eat, and I was thankful for the 'Help'. My kids always seemed to be fine with that and a frozen veg, thank goodness!

[@shannonbrice8012]

@@sherilynalexnder897 I find kids will eat almost anything. To them hamburger helper is AWESOME to us it was one most disgusting vile thing on the planet. Still kept hamburger helper in the cupboard they liked it it was cheap and took minutes to make.

[@Jen-Chapin]

My daughter loves cheeseburger macaroni 😝

[@lorrainebenton1811]

When covid hit here in the UK all the restaurants shut my husband and I saved £900 just by not eating out for the year !!! It’s so crazy would have never thought we spent that much on convenience foods

[@sheenamaclean8324]

Wow, I'm in the UK and I didn't think British people eat out that much compared to Americans, who always seem to eat out, that said if you do eat out it is expensive! That said also, I'm fortunate to live a 3 min walk to a Tesco Extra so NEVER get takeaway, just buy an upmarket pizza or meal deal and cook it myself in the same time it takes to wait for the delivery. Now how much have I saved by not going to the pub, gigs and theatre over the last year..well that's another question, haha

[@evelinholmes6401]

@@sheenamaclean8324 If you are short on time to prep for a meal ,always have some cooked rice or noodles in the fridge for quick stir fry or a jar of spaghetti sauce to . You can make many things in a hurry .

[@lindap.p.1337]

Here is the US most people have saved big money by not eating out during Covid.

[@LiaCooper]

i stopped eating/drinking out full stop in march 2020 and i can't even calculate how much i have saved not buying coffees. i do sometimes miss it because i loved sitting in cafes and reading, but at the same time oof the money i've saved perfecting my coffee at home is pretty significant

[@jacquelinelilly8064]

We are the family that has been to Florida many times and never been to Disney. My mom has a condo so we have a free place to stay. We go to the beach and visit local attractions/historical sites. There is so much to do in Florida! We don't miss the theme parks!

[@denisebellanich7938]

I only buy groceries at "discount" stores like ALDI, Food4Less, Grocery Outlet, ect. If I go to a regular store it is for specific item. I shop at TJ Maxx or buy off the clearance rack.

[@brieb9750]

Omg thank god there’s someone else who finds Starbucks and their prices mind-boggling! 🙌🏼🙌🏼 ETA I thought of Jen too 🤣🤣

[@DrummerGrrrl]

Starbucks charges those outrageous prices because their marketers are diabolical geniuses. They convince people who make too much money to spend exorbitant amounts on "specialty coffees" and other silly products. They are brilliant in convincing yuppies that they're hip and cool and that dropping almost $10 on a big cup of coffee and cream is something to aspire to. I worked at Starbucks and I never believed that bull$hit. Corporate tried to get all the "partners" (their corny name for us peons) to get all excited about the brand but I saw right through all the crap. Do I occasionally still buy a piece of pumpkin bread and a Venti iced latte? Sure. Very occasionally, if I'm out and about. Otherwise, my coffee maker at home is perfectly fine.

[@gailcirac8222]

Plus they support baby slaughter, there's that😐

[@mykijiji1958]

I have gone to Starbucks exactly twice, both times a student gave me a gift card for Christmas. So, not my own money!! Ha ha ha!!

[@ajcarr1965]

Here's my "hack" to make "Starbucks" coffee at home: buy a French press coffee maker and learn the ritual. The instructions are online. It takes about 4 minutes to get the water really hot in the microwave, then another 4 minutes to steep the coffee grounds, press & pour. By pressing the coffee grounds, you get the oils that create a rich, satisfying flavor. I use cheap coffee from Dollar General. It's the French press process that does the trick. The cup of coffee I get is really strong & rich & as good as Starbucks. The French press pot actually makes 2 cups at a time.

[@lance9249]

@@mykijiji1958 I went to Starbucks once my sister purchased that nasty drink building it up as if it was amazing 1 sip and I was done rest went where it belonged the trash can. I seriously can't believe people pay for coffee that taste burnt.

[@iWuvHuskys]

My mom instilled so much of this into me and it makes me so happy, because I'm already comfortable without certain things (cable, eating out constantly etc)

[@CGZ26]

The whole real vacations instead of fancy vacations/disney thing is actually so good. Your kids will have more contact with locals and develop an open mind and more empathy. They will also learn to take care of nature and historical sites.

[@brigittehunter]

Also, I don’t think I’ve ever paid full price for a clothing item. January 2020 I went to old navy and I bought 10 items for under $25. Shop the clearance and sale items. I found a dress for $1.99. 😳

[@kerryf9796]

Same!

[@Leab955]

It hurts my heart to buy full price. I don't remember the last time I have done it. I just wait for clearance. Not a fan of thrifting in my area bc the price are so high

[@vickidiodato9834]

Finding cheap clothing in a plus size is near impossible. I might buy name brand, but it is LandsEnd or LLBean and I wear it forever!

[@Jennifer-1724]

This is one area I normally but new and not on sale. Because I buy quality, ethically and shoot for made in America. I think I own 28 items of clothes. Not buying anything until i wear out what I own.

[@allanhubbell8870]

I'm Marie & fortunately we have great Thrift stores, some items still have price tags on them. Just of course sanitize or wash, clean before using. Bought my son's clothes (not socks or under garments) from baby to age 16. Legos & toys. Home items, shelves, lamps, dishes, curtains, organization containers, family games & puzzles. For over 30 years I've bought my coats & clothes (mostly Brand name & some Designer) there too & get compliments on them. This week a nurse giving me my Covid vaccine complimented my Ralph Lauren blouse. I thanked her & giddily let her know I bought it at a thrift store about 6 years ago. Long story short 🤣🤣 my husband and I are Super frugal in many ways, taught our son the tips, & were able to retire early.

[@rachelholroyd6887]

Your money saving tips have helped my boyfriend and I save a ton of money! We are well on our way to saving for a house! I feel like it’s actually going to happen

[@melissaleany9903]

This one is a little different. For each of our kids we bought Easter baskets and the plastic grass to go with it. But we save their baskets and the grass to use again year after year. I put each thing of plastic grass in a ziploc bag, and I squish out the air. Come next year, we just open it up again, and fluff up each of the grass. And then re-use the plastic bags to store afterwards till next the year. And the kids each know which baskets belong to them for the Easter bunny to fill again. There are no characters on them, they just each have different colors of the same style wicker basket. So we don't have to worry about them getting too old for them. But saves us a lot of money of having to pay $1 or so for the grass each year per kid, and whatever the cost of the baskets are per kid each year too!

[@amandawarry6151]

I do this for every celebration. I have a plastic tub for each celebration and after the celebration I go in for all the 95% off stock for next year and put in the tub...

[@tiffyz1533]

We do the exact same thing. 3 kids, and we have been doing it this way for over 10 years. Two of them are now teenagers. I can't imagine buying and throwing away the grass every year, not just because of the cost but how bad that must be for the environment! We put the grass in their baskets Easter morning, fill the baskets, hide them, and as soon as they are found the grass and baskets go right back where they were for the rest of the year.

[@cherylT321]

That’s brilliant!

[@lijohnyoutube101]

We do this for every holiday, I grew up the same way. Its mind boggling that some families don’t do this. Super wasteful! For Valentines for school classrooms, yrs ago on day after they had the. Valentines for 5 cents a box. I bought enough for all the kids to have a box thru end of elementary school and put in a tub that they just pull from each yr Same for Easter Egg kits found some on sale a few days after for 10 cents a die kit with 6 color tabs, stickers, wax crayons,wraps, stands etc I bought for like the 8 yrs after we had a kit.

[@caielini]

We even do the same eggs. It's part of our tradition that the kids have to empty and match all of the eggs back up (because matching a bunch of opened eggs is a pain) BEFORE they get to have any of the stuff inside the eggs. They usually empty the eggs into a bowl and match the egg and toss it back into our big Easter bag with all of the eggs. The eggs get put back in the garage and pulled out the following year.

[@daniellebreaux16]

The fact that soft drinks are now $3.50 at a restaurant is crazy!

[@jilliancutsforth8928]

Right we got a large drink at a local fast food and it was 3.09 I was like what!!

[@SummeRain783]

And it’s mixed with water isn’t it? Unbelievable

[@jennyslavis375]

We always order water . I can’t see paying so much for sugar.

[@majajasar1278]

I don't do a lot of stuff, as you. But only thing that I do not want to give up, is going every summer back to Europe to see my family. It's a lot of money, but not having any family here in States , and I want my daughter to know that she is not alone and to spend time with family.

[@bettywurm306]

I am obsessed with McDonalds unsweetened Iced Tea. Now I make iced tea at home, but it’s never the same. I will buy a large $1.00 glass of tea 3xs a week. I’ll stretch it by adding my own ice, over and over for a couple days to make it last until I go get another. I know it’s basically water, but I’m ok with that. I used to drink sodas, sometimes 3 cans a day, and have completely stopped. So I justify the $12 per month for iced tea is way less than the cost of soda. I’m retired and my buckets are full. My retirement years are set and my funeral is paid. So I allow myself the pleasure of driving through McDs for tea.

[@kathylouise1936]

If you add a tiny pinch of baking soda to a 2 quart pitcher of iced tea made with lipton tea bags. This cuts the acidity in the tea. Then take out the teabags, when you have the desired strength. Add your sweetener of choice. McDs, highly likely uses corn syrup, or a simple syrup. I use diet sweetener. I also buy the gallon size tea bags at a restaurant supply. Lipton, there are 24 bags that make a gallon of tea. It is only $5.19 a box. If you do not drink a gallon in a day, refrigerate it. Wash and rinse your container well, between each use. I use hot water and let the tea steep till done. Do not squeeze the bag out after, to get extra tea. The tannins are bitter, do not squeeze out your tea bags. gallon bags

[@bettywurm306]

@@kathylouise1936 good tips! I drink it unsweetened, but I’ll try the baking soda tip

[@lindap.p.1337]

You are entitled. This is a small splurge.

[@SpoonMe]

Not a splurge. Do the same! Enjoy ☺️. Edit: and you’re saving your bones because cola depletes our bones of calcium. Us retired gals need to keep our calcium so double bonus 😀

[@MaterialGirl453]

Try making your tea in a glass pot instead of a metal one.

[@saradeaton687]

Goodwill is like a treasure hunt for me, we always find name brand stuff, sometimes with tags still on! I sometimes get Thredup, but nothing compares to Thrift stores or garage sales!

[@karenandrew2936]

I agree. I have taught my 5 grandchildren that, we are raising to spend money wisely. You get more for their money and dress nice by shopping at thrift stores.

[@brittanymcdonaldbarr1106]

Same. I have the most compliments from my thrifted and yard sale clothing. I do like to buy nicer pieces and can find them almost all the time if you really look.

[@Olive_O_Sudden]

I so miss the Goodwill that used to be down the street from my home. All the Goodwill stores in the city where I live closed several years ago.

[@sct4040]

I had to stop thrifting, I became addicted and bought stuff I don't need or use.

[@peachybuttercrunch4409]

Yesssss

[@daniel.woodcock]

Eating out regularly can be such a big waste of money, I always have spare meals I've made ready for when I'm too lazy to cook.

[@ChristinaSwaters]

I would argue that there is seriously something about the magic of Disney that literally makes you forget about all the things you said. I have a love/hate relationship with that feeling. 🤣

[@WendyLitteral]

Same. One of the best vacations we've ever had. The kids literally still talk about it, and it was 2 years ago. But I agree that it is EXPENSIVE for what you could do with that same money. But it was worth it, gotta say. 100%.

[@TickleMeElmo55]

Gotta admit, Disney theme parks are awesome. I don't know about the cruise but then again cruises never appealed to me.

[@rosemarycrosman6381]

I'd rather go camping. Disney parks hurt the environment. As well as many others do as well.

[@katelucas6944]

Average Starbucks cost is probably closer to $5-6/ drink. I worked there and tons of people would spend over $10 for breakfast!

[@christinariggs896]

Yes this!.. I was totally thinking this about the price. $2.75 is for a small plain hot coffee... most every other drink is $5,$6,$7 or more!! You know any real star bucks person is getting the more expensive drinks. I make my own coffee(1 cup in the morning) & drink water the rest of the day.

[@jilliancutsforth8928]

Right we got a matcha coconut tea and realized for the price 6 (3 trips @ 2 each time) of them we can buy a bag of matcha powder and coconut milk enough to make about 30 at home 🤯🤯🤯🤯

[@SummeRain783]

Unbelievable... that’s $300 a month if you do it everyday!

[@ellabergfeld7899]

im no where near being a mom but i love this woman

[@KathyM1611]

I’m not a mom either, Christine is still awesome. 👍

[@NicoleSlays]

I was just at Dillard's and got my son some shirts for literally $6 each especially since it was in the big and tall section. So not only good quality material, but it will fit him well also. You can budget at just about any and every store. It depends on when you go, and what all you're looking for.

[@taylorgenke415]

The only name brands I don't budge on are dawn dish soap, frosted flakes,and doritos. I don't eat them often but they taste distinctively different, and the soap lasts way longer

[@christinetharp5779]

Yes store brand doritos are terrible! Any dish soap besides dawn is horrible too

[@enlightenedone1769]

And cheese . I can't do store brand cheese

[@lindap.p.1337]

I have to buy Tide with bleach. Nothing works better.

[@kellygarza867]

Getting take out (we don’t eat at restaurants for many reasons) saves my sanity many days. The same for getting frozen or pre-made food. We are also a family of 6 (kids are 10, 4, 4, and 2), my hubs is currently working from home and we homeschool. We almost always use coupons or online deals. The only time we don’t is if we order from local restaurants. I don’t mind spending full price when supporting local businesses especially now when they really need our support.

[@elizalee8781]

Working from home and homeschooling means money saved on commuting gas! 😎 I grew up in a homeschool family of 6!

[@lindap.p.1337]

You deserve to eat out. Four kids are a lot of work.

[@annalou8696]

My best “saving hack” to date is working at Starbucks so I get free drinks 😂 I really love the e company and am super happy working there but especially during the pandemic the free food and drink has really helped me out

[@sassafrasrantypants2026]

I bought my first ‘brand new’ new car and I have no regrets. The bumper to bumper warranty, the fact that there were no previous owners doing who knows what to the engine, and peace of mind it brings me as, a single mom, to know I have the most reliable transportation possible with roadside assistance is with the extra money. I’ve had awful experiences with used cars and will never buy another one.

[@kimberlya6974]

When you live in Canada and two bell peppers on their own, out of season are $7 🙈

[@user-pf7ht6jl7v]

Ugh yes! Peppers are crazy prices.

[@cindylinke6560]

😳😳😳

[@jennycarrier]

sometine yess..its creazy!..i buy when the price are ok.i get more plus cut them up plus freze some..;)

[@iRon.x]

Oh yes. Tell me about it.

[@CriticallyMe]

Yes!!! Love these videos but, what is the Canadian equivalent of $10 dinners? Lol

[@TVDii]

I love the idea of putting more money towards experiences than tangible items and yes! Mealkits etc are definitely not a way to save money- totally agree

[@tonyamikhalych6197]

Eating out has been my weakness with money but now my husband and I have been doing a lot of meals at home for the last year (since we got married and I moved to NY). It has been a blessing really and I love that we have been able to pay off all of our credit card debt. The goal now is to get better with meal prep/storage which will come with practice, consistency, and planning. Thanks for all your videos! They have been so helpful to us. :)

[@bc101ful]

Loved your video!! My family does pretty much the same! We eat 3 meals at home, cooked from scratch so much healthier!!!! I made a little exercise room in our house. Tablet that my brother gave me to watch yoga and a mat, a trampoline that i got for $25 and a rowing machine. Love to walk when weather is good. Thsnk you for your wonderful video.

[@kellyschurger]

I almost always buy the “name brand” clothes my kids want second hand from a friend.

[@sarahcraver6513]

I buy probably 75% of my families clothes from Poshmark and get all of the brand names for cheap and then I turn around and resell them all

[@denisecurry7472]

Me too

[@rosejacobs4745]

I love poshmark!

[@nicoletierheimer3546]

You can go buy the rolls uncooked at Texas Roadhouse for pretty cheap and comes with butter and cook at home. I used to make my grandmas homemade yeast rolls, but not anymore! Fix steaks at home and baked potatoes and a salad and then get the rolls. Perfection!

[@AskAgainL8ter]

Do you buy them directly from roadhouse? Or somewhere else?

[@pamp212]

My list of " I don't buy" lines up well with yours! Love the stats on car depreciation for the years, it put actual numbers on my long-time belief!

[@mccalleng8747]

Such a great approach to life - everyone has CHOICES!! In our fam we choose travel over EVERYTHING. I cook almost every meal, we have all USED cars (hubs does all oil changes, new brakes, etc), I coupon and use rebate apps and we are CONTENT! Go Christine!!

[@goldengoddess115]

Crazy I’ve been watching over a year now! Started watching the beginning of the pandemic. It’s been a pleasure to watch your channel grow🌱 you have useful content a good personality and beautiful family. Continued success 🤗✨💜

[@FrugalFitMom]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@elizabethrauf9407]

I very much have a $5/week fancy coffee habit, but it's not cheaper for me to buy all those fancy syrups and it's a smaller chain so I want to support them.

[@jilliancutsforth8928]

I dont know if you have a cash and carry or a urm in your area they are resturant supplies open to public. But that is where coffee shops buy theirs. Its normally like 10.99 per liter of fancy syrup. Awesome to support local! Just a thought

[@Cassiefrommear]

I’m so glad I found your channel while I’m young so I can start frugal habits now! Also you have amazing quads

[@rayx9644]

I just found your channel 3 days ago and you are so cool, I love your energy and sense of humor! Excellent cooking and financial tips. Keep up the great work!

[@louisedillon6797]

Texas Roadhouse has an early dine menu for $9.99 a meal. My husband and I always buy off this menu and get water. I just got $80 worth of Texas Roadhouse gift cards using my credit card rewards. I always buy these when possible. I pay for auto insurance and homeowners insurance thru credit cards so I get credit card rewards. Of course, I pay the credit card off in full every month so there is no interest.

[@Wisdom-gc]

yes. date night

[@FrugalFitMom]

Great ideas! I do like Texas Roadhouse!

[@raisingmitchells1224]

I don’t buy convenience food normally BUT I broke my hand and with three kids age 6 and under (baby 8 months) I have been buying pre-diced veggies and meat whilst i am in a cast. I am in the UK and it costs SO much more but even meal prepping I either do it solo or watch the kids and let my husband do it (he can cook well, it just takes longer). For these 12 weeks I am willing to pay the convenience for my sanity. Saying that I don’t buy premade meals, we occasionally get a take away fish and chips (maybe once a month) and it costs us £20 including delivery (baby tends to have left overs atm)

[@crockettfiles]

Yes! Never pay full price for anything. Some of my best yeard sale deals have been 2 pairs of brand new Birkenstock sandals for $1 each and a working Kitchenaid mixer for $15.

[@jennifererb8565]

I'm watching this while working and hear the bit about Starbucks. When you said 'listen... Jen' that really took me off guard since that's my name and I just cut my Starbucks budget in half to help with savings 😂

[@peachygirl2374]

I'm a chef and i never buy ready meals, my boyfriend comes from a house of ready meal and kids food Im teaching him to cook😅 we love cooking together now 😌

[@lifeandhomewithmeredith9050]

It is so much more fun to cook with your significant other and can bring date night to another level! Much Love to all

[@mykijiji1958]

Nice! So much better for you, too!

[@SongbirdCollageArts]

We love leftovers! We look at those as "easy days" when we don't have to cook. Thanks for the great content, as always!

[@FrugalFitMom]

So true!

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

I love leftover days! I'm not sure how the rest of the fam feels about it but since the alternative is that they have to make their own food, they don't grumble about it lol. Leftover day is my "me day."

[@traciedye9633]

Yes to this, tonight is leftover night! We had a date night in last night, used a gift card we had for a local restaurant, watched a streamed movie. There is plenty left over for another meal, and what isn’t eaten tonight will be my lunch on Monday. I almost never eat lunch out at work except when the boss is paying!

[@cherylcollins5097]

I agree with most of the stuff you said. However, i am guilty of buying a starbucks drink every now and again as I love coffee.

[@pamelachappell1089]

We love leftovers also. My aunt always called them 're-runs'. :)

[@kaitlinleroux7371]

As a Starbucks drinker, I just want to say that *most* people don’t do it everyday. This seems to be a common misconception among those who don’t drink it. 😉

[@michelecirrincione6848]

Same! It’s a treat for me. Since COVID I’ve saved a lot since I don’t get my “you made it through the week” Friday morning coffee. I’m a teacher! 👩🏻‍🏫

[@lauraoergel6003]

Same!! I cant afford a 3000 cappucino maker so once a week i spend $4 and its not out of my budget

[@ashleyd7023]

@@michelecirrincione6848 I do the same thing on Saturdays. It’s my treat for the week. (I deliver mail.) If I ever walked into work with Starbucks a different day several people would say ‘It’s not Saturday! You must be have needed an extra treat.’ Otherwise yes, it’s too expensive to go more than that.

[@angelitadominguez]

I used to think that too but I worked for 5 years at a starbucks by a hospital and a military base amd let me tell you....I saw the same people 2 and 3 times a day m-f. Even had a mommy stroller club that met 3 times a week. 😳 I've never saw sooo many sterling silver starbucks cards with 300+ of money on them

[@twatquat3322]

I work in a Hospital that has a Starbucks inside. I work with people that go there 2 & 3 times a shift. UNREAL !!! Then they gripe about being Broke all the time. These are people that make decent money, well educated with degrees but can't seem to get through their heads that if they spend $5 to $15 A DAY on coffee, that Yes, they'll go Broke, is Unbelievable.....🤦‍♀️

[@cookingwithhistory6694]

Thank you for all of the great tips!

[@Jen-Chapin]

Do I have to add my Starbucks money in with my dining out? Because if so, no comment 😂

[@emmakateelfadventures3838]

😂😂😂

[@savvysaute6578]

Starbucks has its own budget line ☕️☕️

[@FrugalFitMom]

Leaving Starbucks as it's own line item? For you, I'll allow it.

[@stacyrussell460]

I just knew Jen had to comment... 😂

[@MandyRoy425]

Starbucks has its own line item in my budget too. 😅

[@sylvia6967]

I dont even wanna talk about how much we spend on fast food..... you have me rethinking my entire adulthood

[@sabatounsi3999]

My husband and I spend 500 ca$ / month for delivery food 😅😅😅

[@staceykersting705]

So easy to work out from home. So many great exercise videos!

[@ladylunagardening7720]

Haircuts for the boys in our family is one that we still pay for unless the boys say they just want it buzzed (to a level 2)

[@denisecarrillo1189]

Omg I so feel you. I'm the same way. I never go to Starbucks nor buy junk food. I pretty much cook 7 days it's better, cheaper, and cleaner. Oh and most of the time I also buy my clothes from goodwill.

[@LaurenCG12]

Disney world tip: 3 day pass over a week. Walking all day everyday is kinda tiring, so we did cheap excursions on the off days (plus sleeping in and to bed early) to maximize the experience without getting worn out

[@Austrianontravels]

This was so fun to watch! I feel like we are very similar. I don't like coffee, therefore I never buy any fancy drinks. I have not been to a hairdresser in years since I cut my hair myself. I used to pay for yoga classes, but since most of the yoga studios in my area closed due to the pandemic I am now following along to free online yoga videos. The only thing my fiancé and I splurge on is vacations. We still try to get the best deal possible, but we do love a good hotel so for us that's the one thing we spend more money on. Oh and as for eating out, we mainly go out to eat for special occasions and occasionally we get takeout, but I'd say we probably spend about $50 on restaurants/takeout a month per person which is okay in my book since I cook from scratch almost every day. Anyway, great video as always!

[@missmaxwell7893]

My hubs is the only one who eats out for lunch on weekdays,because his work has him traveling every where. Other wise I cook breakfast/lunch/dinner

[@brigittehunter]

I worked at Starbucks for 3 years. On the days I worked, I would get unlimited drinks and one free food item. After those 3 years, I am sick of Starbucks drinks. 😂 And if I do go, it’s on my birthday when I get a free drink. 😂

[@user-pf7ht6jl7v]

Lol yes! I remember getting free drinks. Now I just go when the BOGO promo and double star day matches up!

[@nicolegrabowski5704]

Same! I worked there for 4 years. I go maybe once a year. Makes you think how much money those "Starbucks regulars" spend a year?!

[@user-pf7ht6jl7v]

@@nicolegrabowski5704 especially when they go multiple times a day (typically office workers). Not to mention the sugar!!

[@evancontreas]

SAME! I only get free Starbucks when other people go out lol. My sister and my mom-in-law always pay because they know the scars I have from being a slave to the siren.

[@ywLDSforever]

I also happened to work at a Starbucks- for two years. But since it was attached to a Safeway, my coworkers and I were not given any of the typical perks. If we made samples, we could take a sample. No free drinks for us. That just meant we were on the ball about making consistent samples... (also, I actually don't drink coffee or tea that isn't herbal. It's been fun to discover how to get around that. :D )

[@teakatt8462]

This last year has proven to be a pretty good year for me finding beautiful quality clothes at the thrift store as people finally got around to cleaning out their closets, lol. Probably the first year in quite a long time that I've bought this many items of clothing over just the last 6-8 months, but all for a fraction of the cost and I love each item (lol, maybe even more, because $!)

[@theamoremovement8773]

You're awesome!!! I've been obsessed with your videos for a while! Thanks for the real content!

[@WiseWomanLola]

I never buy name brands, almost always buy things on sale or coupons. Mostly cook at home from scratch. Prepared foods are so salty, as you said. My husband watches cable, so that is his entertainment, and since he is the breadwinner I figure he deserves that luxury. I subscribe to KZbin for the benefit of no ads. So worth it. Our children are grown and married. Our house is paid off. At this stage in our life, we do go out to dinner once a week. But when I was a stay at home homeschooling mom I did penny pinch a lot more. I still am frugal in most areas, but we use money for experiences instead of material things.

[@lindap.p.1337]

My husband was spending $229 per month on cable. Can I tell you how many times I complained over this? I finally called and cut the service down to $118. Now I cant see any of my fav channels except HGTV. He gets all his favs. I would rather not watch than pay so much. I would cancel it all.

[@goingketo7584]

I once took my family of 4 to Disney for $1,800 for four days. I called it Poor Man's Disney and once I started finding deals I was unstoppable. My youngest child was a month from his third birthday so he was free EVERYWHERE. We got one of those timeshare resorts and paid the $50 fee to NOT go to the presentation. The resort had a full kitchen which we used a lot, plus it had 3 pools, a playground, mini golf and more. We got 2 days at the parks and it was plenty for us with the resort. Flights were paid for with skymiles.. it was our best vacation ever!

[@Nan-NawfromFL]

Good job

[@rosejacobs4745]

Woah. We could never justify that expense. Is that cheap for Disney? I hate to think what it is normally... we aren't really into Disney though so that probably plays a lot into it.

[@goingketo7584]

@@rosejacobs4745 I've seen 2 people spend $5,000 for 3 days at Disney so I thought it was a great deal. I definitely saved up for it and it was worth every penny! 😌

[@AleshaBrown8]

Yes!!! We have done Disney so many time by doing the timeshare presentation...didn't know you could pay $50 to not attend the presentation though 😲😲😲 The last one we sat through, we were honest and told them we were only sitting there to afford a family vacation. They let us go :)

[@therealtattytiara]

Volunteering can also be a great way to get memberships and/or free admission to things like museums, festivals, concerts, etc.

[@KarolinaOrganizuje]

I'm binging on your videos for Two weeks now. You're my inspiration 😍

[@karenprinz5987]

I love the idea of rotating your streaming services! Will definitely be doing that! I’d love a video on ingredients to have on hand or meals you can make in a pinch. We get takeout more than I’d like because I get busy/tired and abandon my meal plan.

[@got_style]

see christine’s freezer meals videos: prep/cook once week the meals you will heat/eat the rest of the week. Ditto playlists on “She’s in her Apron” and Jamerell Stewart

[@Warriorofthe]

I know I will be busy or tired most of the weekdays so I plan very easy meals for the weekday and the more involved meals for the weekend. Plan extra meals into your weekly menu just in case you change your mind or you have little to no time/ energy to cook! I like to plan and pick up my groceries every two weeks instead of weekly. The weeks get busy and fly by and I would often feel like I lived at the grocery store.

[@RN-yb5kn]

These are things I also don't do 95% of the time. We do eat out once a week at a fast food place for like $20 for 3 people. I get Starbucks once every couple of months when I just really feel like I deserve it

[@adriennedull332]

Thank you for the ideas. I enjoy your Channel a lot. We eat at home most of the time, once a week we eat “out” usually takeout. Starbucks is a maybe once a month and even then hubby and I share… just like my own coffee better. Also have a nespresso so no need to out to get. We don’t drink pop and we don’t drink alcohol… by choice and that is a huge savings…home prepped meals are much tastier than pre made…

[@CheapRick]

I was always SO curious as to what you guys drove! Thanks for sharing!!

[@ashleyross5874]

Stacking the steaming services is something I do every year. We are on a hulu year because of the awesome 1.99 deal. I'm hoping Disney will have a black Friday deal this year.

[@KrissyFace]

I love coffee but I make my own… I’ve never been in Starbucks but I have gone to other coffee houses but it’s only as a treat. And as frugal as I am I do enjoy dinner out on occasion but I try to go for lunch hours because it’s cheaper or sometimes at dinner I will order the sandwich instead of the full dinner plate

[@zg8878]

I was going to buy one of your merchandise. It was the sweater for almost $50 dollars. After watching this video, I decided you are right. I can buy maybe 5 sweaters at Walmart for that price. Thanks!

[@Hello-kk5gy]

Great vlog. I agree to All 9 but name brand clothing I have a had time not doing But I have very much slowed down and now budget.

[@itsHeatherKay]

Haha- I love Disney World and Disney Cruises. That’s the thing I will scrimp and save for.

[@cherylreed4377]

We raised our kids without cable 👍we just watched rented videos even had to pay for library ones for awhile and movies the we bought

[@jennyslavis375]

We r thinking cutting the cable out , the shows are not as good ,and commercials r sicking . And news makes us angry , so why we pay so much money and we get so upset watching it . You are smart 👍

[@amandamlewis44]

Disney cruises are amazing. My kids have made so many friends and memories on Disney cruises. We are 100% debt free including mortgage and we absolutely love Disney in all areas.

[@jilliancutsforth8928]

Right! First time I went there when they opened one in my area. I was like I dont know what to get the person said our burgers actually really good! Now my boyfriend and I are both hooked it's so good! At del taco The very first thing we cut out when our remodel when from a carpet replace to realizing the damage was so much worse, was pedicures and premade food. I love the suggestions!

[@katiebergeron7384]

We actually added in some convenience foods to save money. Taquitos and hamburger patties have saved me some serious McDonald's money. There is nothing in this world I think I hate more than having to try to make a hamburger patty from ground meat. We bought a few premade ones and suddenly my eating out budget dropped.

[@kirbythsquirrel]

The Honda pilot is amazing! If you are not hauling people, you can fit a lot of stuff (plants, estate sale finds)

[@debrahartwig8291]

I got a used CRV. No kids, so it gets me around. The mileage was extremely low, and since 2020 was a wash, I got even greater low mileage.

[@ashleynadler8620]

I love your channel! My husband and I are based in nyc and decided to purchase a Vespa recently. A big decision being newly married but the savings already on metro cards, taxis, Ubers etc have been mind blowing. Best investment money wise and for the environment we’ve made in a long time!!

[@lizpimentel2566]

I think I do most of this list! My resolution this year is to save money to get out of debt and eventually buy a house after saving up and paying said debt. I learned to not just spend my money on wants and I save so much money. I don't buy new clothes often, I usually go to the thrift store, I don't drink coffee, bought a used car 2 years ago, etc.

[@jessicamudrow335]

Whenever I see these lists like this I always find that I am already following the lists and that there is not much else I can do to save money. We don't drink coffee either. We very rarely eat out. I only just barely replaced a few ratty t-shirts of mine because they had holes. Our car is from 2006. Etc. My husband is in grad school and we have 2 small children. We get by because of these frugal tips, but it's hard to find spare change. Perhaps it's part of this season of life for us, but it's still a little discouraging when it seems like I can't save any more than what we are already doing.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Just wanted to reply to say that I absolutely emphasize with you! I'm very happy for people who are able to save tons of money doing these things, but for me these things have always been necessary to get by. My boyfriend is studying right now to change careers. I'm trying to be comfortable with the idea that just surviving is enough for now until we can both increase our incomes, and then the money saving can happen!

[@trendafawver7795]

I'm stuck with buying "name brand" jeans because of my wide waist and very short inseam. I've tried buying ones that fit my waist and then having them hemmed, but they practically have to redo the entire pant so it makes it almost as expensive as just buying the name brand. I tried sewing some myself, but sewing is not a thing I've mastered quite yet. I'm hoping my weight loss continues so I can fit into the thrift store jeans we have around here.

[@victoriaLL345]

Great points!

[@rmw9130]

I am in the middle of a no spend month!! I was inspired by another KZbinr who did a no spend year. A year seemed like way too much for me but I said I could do a month. I love frugal fit mom for her recipes and "frugal inspiration!" As a single mom we were eating out a ton. Just in the last week have easily saved $100 not eating out. Yay!!! 😀😀

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

"I'm sorry, we don't offer just internet in your neighborhood, you're required to bundle." 🙄 So there you have it.

[@FrugalFitMom]

Bummer!

[@Amanda-yp3sg]

I live in a place like that too! If I want internet, it only comes bundled with cable...

[@thegracklepeck]

That's awful!

[@jenniferstanton202]

We are in a similar situation but not quite the same. We have a choice, but only if you barely use your internet at all. We can get just internet but it has a data cap and you pay for each GB you go over..... However if you bundle with the most basic cable which is extra $15/month you have unlimited and can get a faster speed package. So they basically money whip everyone into having cable. : (

[@stacyholt5799]

I live that life too. 😓 Internet is a necessity. It's "unlimited" and yet throttled after a set number of Gb. I have to really watch data consumption so I'm not throttled and trying to work. We went 27 years with no cable. Then telework was mandatory.

[@sunsetatshabooms4558]

OMG now you have me wanting Hamburger Helper lol I love love love the taco flavor. Also I thought you were going to say chairs as one of things you don't spend money on since you were sitting on the floor lol

[@FrugalFitMom]

HAHA!!!

[@johndoe-wv3nu]

You can just make it. Spaghetti sauce, taco seasoning, a cast iron skillet.....I hate hamburger helper but I'm ok when I make it myself from scratch.

[@JSHBubby]

Love your videos. I literally added up my Doordash receipts and was shocked! I guess $20 ish a meal isn't too bad until you add them all up!! I'm trying to live a simpler life and your tips always help me.

[@ajsam4881]

I definitely stopped going to nail salons and began doing my own nails at home. Much cheaper and it became an activity I loved to do! Cable TV is a definite no.