It's Impossible to Save Money Now!!

It's not like the old days. It's more difficult now than ever before to be frugal. I tell you why.
Frugal Queen in France
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We are a British couple living in Brittany on a budget.
Frugal recipes, days out, home renovations and day to day making do in France.
We’ll give you hints, tips, advice and an insight into our life in France.
Website www.frugalqueeninfrance.com/
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Apple iMovie*

[@JillD-ux9zb]

I'm in my 70's and have always been very frugal and am quite accomplished in many life skils. My entire life i have been asked to do things for other people...mend, sew, knit, bake etc... usually for free or very little pay and often treating the skills I'm being asked for as inconsequential or somehow inferior. The young people today...late teens and 20's... are the first group to ask me to teach them how to do these things for themselves. They have zip in the way of funds, and are trying to stretch what pennies they have, but they always ask how they can repay me for my time and skills....what can they do to help me....what can they trade with me for my time etc. They are anxious to learn for themselves and be self sufficient in this new world. They are embracing frugality and thrift but with the kind of joy that young people exhibit. I am so proud and hopeful for them and their futures.

[@cindyhaferbecker2966]

I wish we could get over the stigmatism of having our young adult kids live at home... they just can't afford it on their own. I feel if they help out and pay rent at home, they shouldn't be looked at negatively to still live at home. It helps the parents out and the kids.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It’s not negative. They just want their own homes.

[@gladyschandler6724]

My adult son & I purchased a house together, and we are both happy. He has his space upstairs, and I'm downstairs. We split everything in half. I just retired this year @72.

[@sandramorton5510]

I agree, young adults are struggling. Good way to save money.

[@patmartin9727]

When I married in 1970 lots of young couples moved in with one or other of their parents house to save up for a deposit for a house of there own or to wait for a house to rent from their local council. We were lucky that we had savings and managed to buy a small terrace house on a mortgage. By the time we had paid the mortgage and the bills we had very little left each week but we managed.

[@tsf637]

I completely agree! My adult sons pay rent and help my husband and myself a lot.

[@juliesweeney8348]

Me and my husband are doing well to pay the basic bills. We have our 2 daughters back home with us. Our car died a year and a half ago, but our oldest daughter had bought one right before the car prices went through the roof. So as we navigate through these times, we have pulled together to keep a roof over our heads and we all have access to a vehicle to run the errands we need and to go to work. Everyone pulls their weight and somehow we are getting through 💖💖💐💐🌻🌻

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I wish you well.

[@troyboyd3100]

Absolutely! Everyone seems to have their hands in our pockets. The news today is talking about the pace of inflation slowing, but that's on prices that have already increased out of reach. I'm also a retired teacher and mark online, and we haven't had a raise in more than ten years for marking. It seems like we (the World) are in a downward spiral. Best to shut off the news, stay home, and garden... and read second-hand books.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Well said

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@brightsunshinyday ouch! Luckily 50c in my local charity shop

[@adoptedscot]

@@brightsunshinyday ouch that’s a lot - pay 50p at our bowling club which goes to club funds or £1-£2 at local charity shops or the library which is free 😀

[@acgrubbs8895]

When I’m in the grocery store, I’ve also noticed people having less in their shopping baskets. Luxury items are rare. I just finished cutting my husband’s hair this morning. It saves $20 every two weeks which adds up.

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

I have been cutting my husband's hair as well as my own. Do our haircuts look perfect? Absolutely not, but we are not spending our money on barbers and beauty salons!

[@louisedudley6478]

It does seem like saving money is impossible now, but with a different mindset it can be done. I am almost a year into retirement and during this year have cut back severely on shopping trips. I realized that I had more than enough clothes to wear around the house. I have enough shoes, cleaning supplies and “stuff” to make do. That has become my mantra, “Make do!” I grocery shop with a calculator in my hand. When I get to the end of my allotted money, I’m done. Using all the skills I’ve learned over the years to stretch what I have is very satisfying. I think we are eating healthier since I no longer buy junk, processed or overpriced food. Thankfully my kids picked up my frugal habits and are practicing them within their homes.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Do you have to save up for a house deposit? Or have an affordability test to rent a flat? Do you have to cycle to work because there is no bus and there's no way you'll ever afford a car? You need more compassion for people at the start of their journey.

[@janetstonerook4552]

An older gentleman and i were talking at the gas pumps today about how much it costs to fuel up our cars anymore. We had a laugh remembering the good old days when gas companies would give you a free car wash with a fill up or free kitchen items like rainbow colored beverage tumblers or oven mitts. And even cleaned your windshield and checked the air in your tires for free! They competed for customer loyalty! That's probably hard for our grandkids to grasp!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Especially when they can’t afford a car.

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

Jane, all of us are going to be re-thinking how, when, and how often we shop; how much the electricity is on at home, and how often we are leaving the house. I am not sure how hair dressers and nail salon owners will stay in business, never mind restaurant owners.

[@bookmagicroe9553]

I used to send gently worn clothes to the second hand shops. Now I wear my clothes to a point where the only place left is the trash. Plus more middle class people are shopping at the thrift stores, depleting inventory. It shows how much the middle class is suffering as well as low income.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

They’re rapidly becoming the working poor

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

@Bookmagic - I think a lot more people will be learning to mend and re-make their clothing.

[@patmartin9727]

I think very few people have avoided being touched by the cost of living crisis. The rises have hit every area of our lives so there is no way to avoid it. I think it is good that people are making their possession last longer much less ending up in land fill but this has a knock on effect for the people who would have previously given these things away ever on free cycle sights or to charity shops.

[@kidzngrandkidz840]

I can remember in the late ‘50’s my grandmother used to rethread elastic into the waist of cotton knickers, old clothing was stripped of anything reusable ie buttons, belts, decorative trimmings, old cotton vests were used as dish cloths, the rag bag was where floor cloths came from, children’s clothes were passed down from family members and then on to friends, things were better quality so it was possible, sadly we are heading back to the days of mend and make do.

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

@@kidzngrandkidz840 We surely are!

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I used to get my car washed, hair cut, yard work, dry cleaning, window washing, house power washing, etc done by professionals. Now, I can't afford it. Now I really can't do a lot of those things myself, though... so they usually go undone, or maybe someone comes along who can and will help. I can't afford any of those services anymore. I've also tried professional house cleaners (for the inside of the house). They were extraordinarily expensive where I live. I know it's hard work, but not some of the fees I've been quoted. I'm certainly finding it much more difficult to save. I think I mentioned here that because of inflation, my social security income went up by $200 a month this year, which promptly put me out of eligibility for $600 worth of benefits I was receiving because of my low income. So, this year, I've started out each month in a $400 deficit. Obviously, I could see no way to save. I've tried no-spend years before, and could last until October. Well I'm in a sort of mandatory no-spend year this year. Because of that, plus all the other money saving efforts I'm making, which are extreme, I admit, because I'm so afraid of running out of money... I've actually had a bit left over each month... somewhere between $100-$400 a month! I'm shocked, but I already have savings funds set up from previous years. I can't believe it, but I am actually able to save a bit of money. I still feel financially strapped. As long as I don't spend on anything besides absolute necessities, (and I'm simply eating less food... it nearly terrifies me to shop for groceries because I know I don't have the money to buy what I normally would, or need) I've realized I'll probably be OK. I will be OK. God is working this deficit living out for me, and I'm (literally) eternally grateful! 🥲

[@susanjacks8830]

Jane I love your top! Here in the US things are getting dicier by the day. Cutting back wherever we can. Hubby is 75 and I am 68 nearly 69. On Social Security plus his retirement check so only so much we can do. Charity shops don't offer much anymore. It's a sad state of affairs our world is in. Praying for you guys in France and all of Europe.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@user-mq6nv9jc1k]

Cut my own hair for the first time two weeks ago, I'll never go to a hairdresser again.

[@PotBanginEejit]

Hell yes to this! :) Nearly 30 years ago now I moved to London and did poverty-pay jobs to start with. I really was absolutely brassic. The first time I needed a haircut was the last time I went to a barber. I’ve cut my own hair ever since… using the exact same clipper set I bought 30yrs ago. I too will never go to the hairdresser again. I should probably work out how much money it’s saved me over the years.

[@stephaniet9264]

Great video as usual. Thank you Jane and MIke. Another point I would like to make is that with AI (Artificial Intelligence) being rolled out slowly but consistently, many professional jobs will be eliminated. Many don't see this happening. Yes, education is important, but many of these professional job will slowly be taken up by AI. I think it's important for people to take up a trade (electrition, plumber, carpenter, etc). My husband is a tradesman and is busier than ever. These jobs can't be flipped to AI, at least in the near future.

[@lat1419]

Plus many older people are happier using trades they know. My OH is the main plumber / heating engineer in our village and does all sorts of small and big jobs. Our neighbours like being able to come and knock on the door and talk to him about what they need. He diesnt charge to go and look at a job. He's like many trades, moving towards retirement age.

[@allisonspeer649]

I used to have a medical transcription service from home making good money years ago, was phased out by technology. All physicians now use electronic medical records. Now at some of our office we do the "check in" answering medical questions and scanning our insurance cards, etc on a tablet/kiosk. No more register/check in person. Medical staff used to review your health information, now in some places we do it ourselves. It's very difficult for the elderly (my husband is 73) but as we are dying off and the new generation is coming on they can and will have to do it. Jobs are being eliminated by technology and once AI gets improved I'm not sure what we will work at.. definitely trade jobs are where the future is. My grandson just graduated high school, no degree for him. He and his father are opening their own asphalt sealing business. My son has worked for someone else all his life in construction and wants independence and to hopefully set up my grandson for a good future. Entrepreneurship in a trade is the new future.

[@sharonmcgee8178]

You are helping so many people! Thanks for all your saving reminders!👏

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You are so welcome!

[@kathleens4252]

My daughter has a family of 5…(3 kids ..4, 6 and 10 years old) plus her husband. She told me yesterday that she saw an older lady at the grocery store buying 1 bag of groceries and found herself envious of her!!! She said how nice it would be to pay for one bag of groceries just for yourself to eat.😂 Her kids are good eaters and she feeds them well so we all know how expensive it has become.

[@sandramorton5510]

As a single mom I worked second jobs for years, you have to keep an open mind. Charity shops I go in once a month if I am looking for something, no expert. I did stop the hair color, nails, yard service etc., during the pandemic and we will not go back to paying people to do what we can do. I started a victory garden during the pandemic, grow our own vegetables, herbs and fruit. I have learned to make my own moisturizers, shampoo, face lotion, laundry soap, cleaning products, all cheaper and healthier than store bought. I have gone way back to old ways. Young people have it difficult for housing, needs a reset. I can see many ways to still be frugal, just different, times are changing.

[@sandramorton5510]

@@smokeshow2142 Thank you, it really is not hard.

[@stephaniet9264]

Agree. I have gone back to cleaning with white vinegar, baking soda.

[@jacquelinejordan1588]

I read through all of the comments and see I am not the only one that thinks "things feel different." It is a really scary mess over here in the US. Jane and Mike, another great video. Have a great rest of your week.

[@pam3744]

I’m noticing two things here in the US affecting my grocery prices- I see manufacturers downsizing their products and then raising the prices at the same time. For example, ice cream has always been packaged in half gallons but now it’s rare to see that with most having gone down several ounces, but prices are either the same or higher. And also, in my quest to buy quality food items in a time of industrial farming, I’m paying exorbitant prices for things like pastured eggs and organic or high quality dairy. Thank you, Jane and Mike for a thoughtful video!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@juliemoore6957]

It's called "shrink-flation". Make the package smaller and charge the same price or higher!

[@liztoth4324]

Some brands of butter have downsized in the U.K. - 200gr instead of 250 gr.

[@adoptedscot]

@@liztoth4324 twinnings earl grey which my mother and I like has gone from 100 bags to 80 bags , going to tescos own or lidls own

[@liztoth4324]

@@adoptedscot in Lidl today tinned peaches gone up from £1 to £1.69 in last few months.

[@kathryncooper4001]

I'm retired and unable to go back to work because of crippling arthritis. Fortunately, I know how to make a dime go the distance of a dollar, but I grieve SO for younger people who just don't know how. For groceries, I make my meal plans based on what my grocer has marked down that week and what I have coupons for. I rarely need anything so urgently that I'm moved to pay full price. I bought my used Volvo wagon 20 years ago with the intention of driving it for the rest of my life. Maintenance isn't cheap, but certainly less than payments on a replacement. My biggest money savers are homemade laundry detergent, which only takes 5 minutes to put together, and switching from toilet paper to bathroom wash. My old house is too small for a bidet or even a bidet attachment on the toilet, so I use a turkey baster and homemade reusable flannel wipes. Toilet paper is now over $1.00 a roll in the U.S., and it's an environmental nightmare. I hang my laundry outside to dry, and I cook from scratch. If you buy anything in a package, rather than making it yourself, you're paying for that package, and that's something I won't do willingly. I live very well on a poverty level retirement income and can afford anything I really want, even a luxury vacation every few years. It's not easy for most people, but it can still be done.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

They know how! They can't earn enough to pay the rent or eat! Home owning or car owning is an impossibility!

[@joycef8443]

How good to hear that someone can make it work!

[@kathryncooper4001]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Actually, I teach a class for desperately poor women. We meet weekly at a charity clinic on the bus line in town. These are women on the dole who have almost nothing but have learned to watch every penny, so can now put food on the table and shoes on their children's feet. In addition to my lesson plans, we exchange new ideas, and it's amazing how they've learned to think deeply about financial strategies. I'm very proud of them. Sadly, no one taught me, and all the lessons I now share were hard-learned. Yes, deserted with two children and an invalid mother to care for, poverty level income, unemployed after The Crash of 2008. I was only one of millions ruined then. I recovered, and it's my mission to coach other women through such crises.

[@lindaripp5902]

I did a no spend month except for paying my bills, and it really helped, cuz now I don't want to go spend any money lol

[@bridge7528]

I feel like 2nd hand shop prices are also rising because lots of people buy things at those shops and sell online for a profit.

[@bradlafferty]

We are gradually changing the type of foods we eat in order to get maximum nutrition at the best price. This includes substituting plant proteins for red meat and cooking more meatless meals. With spice and seasoning, these are excellent, a culinary adventure, and we are actually beginning to prefer our new way of eating!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great point!

[@r.p.9829]

We had "meatless" tacos last night using refried beans in lieu of meat...with all the veggies, salsa and guacamole no one missed the meat at all...

[@carolnewman4890]

Me too! Loving all the fresh veggies and fruit, grains,legumes and more. I even belong to the Rancho Gordo bean club! Yes it's a culinary adventure! And a health adventure too!

[@lisahaffner3337]

I live in Canada. I did grocery shopping today. I automatically grabbed store brand but than noticed a name brand 30 cents cheaper. Store brands have gotten expensive

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We all must check

[@notpartoftheplan]

Yes, I've noticed the same thing. I'm also in Canada, and now not only are the store brands harder to find, but the savings in choosing them is disappearing.

[@helenstory9924]

As a mum of two teens and a daughter in her mid twenties, I appreciate your comments on the challenges they face. Some people can be very scathing and it’s unfair. The next generation is really up against it!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

They certainly are!

[@lauravancea3935]

Hello from Romania. All eyes and ears here😊

[@corinneleppard1933]

I find it all quite disheartening. I want to save and pay off the mortgage as much as I can, but sometimes I have to accept that it isn't possible. On the plus side, I am lucky to have a house and relatively small mortgage, and to be able to hold on to it - just! So many are finding things impossible and losing the roof over their head. I find it really upsetting to read. It makes me anxious for change and also keen to ensure that lessons in empathy and politics, as well as an awareness of society and its imbalances, are highlighted for my son.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Well said

[@frugalwendy]

Spot on, Jane and Mike. I was going to buy a prepackaged bag of fresh cherries for a treat this week "on sale" for $5.99/lb. I assumed each bag was prepackaged at around a pound (I knew better, but didn't bother to weigh it myself); at checkout it rang out at over $13 for the bag. I politely told the checker we didn't want it. We also recently had to buy some (ridiculously expensive) plywood for a home repair. My husband dutifully sorted through the heavy plywood sheets until we had the number we needed that were without cracks or other damage and stacked the damaged ones neatly to the side. We saw another customer do the same--he had to put 9 sheets to the side before he found enough that were of acceptable quality. I guess my point is be on your guard--it feels like more than ever before, stores are pulling out every trick in the book to get their hands on our money. Don't be tricked or shamed into buying junk or paying more than what you planned to spend.

[@isabelsebastiao-vieira2152]

Yes, it is getting increasingly more difficult to save money. I never had a side hustle because until I was 35 years of age I worked full-time during the day and studied at College and University at night. At 40 I became disabled, and have lived on partial disability pensions from Canada and Portugal. My husband passed away when I was 51 and now have partial survivor´s pensions. I really enjoyed your video today. Wishing you and all your viewers good luck and all the best in the future. Izzy from Portugal.

[@gladyschandler6724]

It took me awhile and a few high-end hair salons in Austin, Texas to find someone reasonable. I finally did got my haircut for $20, and 1/2 a mile from my home, not a fancy place but I'm happy with the results

[@jodihiller4506]

Every single one of your points is true here in Michigan (USA) also! Crazy times!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

So sad

[@laetitialogan2017]

I went as a seller car booting last weekend. I was decluttering the house to make it easier to clean. What I noticed was the amount of people sellingv heir personal items..hundreds of them. The organizers opened an additional football field to accomodate. Less buyers out and about, and they want the items for knock down prices...practically for free. Also, mountains of clothes. I made 152 euro in 4 hours, which wasnt bad, as the man next to me made 40, and the woman on the other side of me made 75...getting tougher and tougher...

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good for you

[@stacel1972]

Thank you for this very relevant video. Born in 1972 and I know how fortunate I am in my 500 sq ft paid off cottage. I have experienced tough times through the years. I work at a food pantry/resale shop and I can see the upswing of families needing food, warm clothing, heating assistance.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing!

[@belindacopson2390]

I am very fortunate to have no mortgage or rent, but am finding that the cost of routine house maintenance and repairs also seems to be rocketing. You're right Jane everyone is feeling the pinch currently. It's worrying but it's good to support others and share information and skills. I'm very grateful for a garden and greenhouse and for cooking skills and like to share garden produce and home made jams etc where I can. In my neighbourhood a lot of people grow vegetables etc and people are generous sharing plants and seeds as end-of-driveway giveaways or for pennies.

[@susanbell4528]

Excellent and so right about how things have changed in a relatively short time. Thank you.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susanbell4528]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance It’s only because of you that I now have a budget. I was making an effort to be economical but never had the discipline of a budget. Nowadays I look at my budget each month. I do this both so I can see whether I am sticking to it but also to make sure that the belt doesn’t need more tightening.

[@justjet]

It is so difficult to save now. I'm on a small fixed income and everything keeps going up. Utilities are supposed to rise at the end of June again. I keep a very detailed budget and I stick to it. I budget $10. monthly for clothes, shoes & accessories and I'm doing a no spend year with it. Come December I'll have $120. and hopefully I'll be able to use that for extra food for the pantry. It's hard now and I believe it will get harder so I'm making plans and making do. Thanks for sharing!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@lizwright8613]

I like your usual upbeat, can-do content, but this is a welcome balance as well. I appreciate it. It does feel difficult lately, and as I'm relatively young with young children it's nice to hear from those with more experience.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I understand

[@janetstonerook4552]

You are in luck to be young enough to plan your strategy and to be able to teach your children to be thrifty now. Crass consumerism is something to stand up against throughout our lifetime. Let them know what peer pressure can do to damage their future!

[@sheilahughes3561]

Everything is expensive including charity shops! Am having to rewrite our budget as redundancy could be on the cards in September for my husband! Am really hoping it doesn’t happen but putting the bare bones budget in place now!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Crossing my fingers that doesn’t happen.

[@sheilahughes3561]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Thanks Jane! Hubby is 61 so not far off retirement!

[@patmartin9727]

🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞 here’s hoping you husband keeps his job until he is ready to retire but good that you are preparing just in case.

[@sheilahughes3561]

@@patmartin9727 Thanks Pat!

[@gailnoll]

Depressing isn't it!! It's like the world is moving backwards instead or forward. I love the comment below by Troy Boyd, stay home and garden and read second hand books. Brilliant!!!!

[@juliemoore6957]

Our 7 yr old Ford truck is worth more now than when we bought it!😮

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That's about right!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

I agree with your observations. We are having the same problems in the United States for the retired persons --- of which we are ones. But the ideas you and Mike have given the viewers has really helped when we go shopping. The ideas of reuse, reduce and recycle comes to mind before we shop now a days. Thanks for sharing.

[@annmcnitt8749]

As bleak as some of this is, it's encouraging to know that we aren't alone. Reading others' ideas and tips is very helpful. My husband has been working on getting his builder's license, while at the same time realizing that his back injuries (with three previous surgeries) might prevent him from ever getting to use it. That means four disabled adults here, and we are looking carefully at how we use our money to stretch it further. Inflation is supposed to be "slowing", but not by much. In the meantime, we're working hard on growing "high-value" food in the garden, both for ourselves and to share. I'm reading old British booklets and watching old wartime videos on victory gardening and paying attention to the "make do and mend" brochures. Please keep your videos coming, Jane and Mike. You're both terrific gifts to the rest of us!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@kathiparshall8094]

Yes, the cost of second hands have gone way up and the quality and availability have gone down.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Absolutely

[@football_editz453]

I paid £4.18 for a watermelon today! I didnt realise until it had gone through the till that it was priced at per kg on the shelf. Last watermelon 🍉 I'll ever be buying! It better be a good one!

[@loriburgess1866]

Jane, I live in N. Idaho USA. You nailed it. My prediction is we here in the US will not have second hand stores. The prices have sky rocketed and the inventory is poor. Our world is sliding into a muddy pit. I have lived through a few recessions (I’m 64). I am seeing something different than I’ve ever seen before. I don’t know how people make it. Maybe many are not. Homelessness is growing all around us.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It’s increasingly worrying

[@ayela562]

I am 49. My parents and in-laws are in their 70’s and saying the same thing. They all say they lived through the inflation of the 70s and 80s but it just didn’t feel like this.

[@joycef8443]

Folks around where I live in Vermont have been complaining about the cost in our local second hand store for the past 4 or 5 years. Many depend on buying most things there and really feel the pinch. I honestly do not know how folks with children are making it; the cost of clothing and food is high! I do notice that I am getting a lot more “sales ads” on email than in years past. I am thinking that a bunch of the clothing and household goods companies are hurting.

[@s.ga21]

I've just researched how much my car would cost right now second hand (my car is 10 years old, a small car) and it nearly costs the same I've paid for it New from the factory, 10 years ago😮!!! I'm in Spain.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sounds right

[@shivakat2297]

I totally agree that our younger people are struggling to make a start in life. Unless someone is willing to teach them and assist them I just don't see how they can make it. Of course most of us had a hard time first starting out but now a days it is stacked against them.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

They can’t make it even if they have great skills if the jobs don’t pay.

[@mikel2044]

Yes things are more expensive but it strengthens our frugality muscles learning new ways to hold tight to our hard earned money.

[@123narky]

I agree with you Jane that things are much harder. In 2004 I bought my first house when I was 25 years old. I know that if I was 25 TODAY then I would definitely not be in a position to buy. My local charities shops have tatty tops, stitching loose and even one with a lovely (faint but noticeable) stain down the front and wanted £5 for it. My lifestyle has altered as a result of the COL crisis, I no longer buy meat, I now handstitch rips and holes in clothes especially my pyjamas, I rarely go into charity shops or Aldi as it’s just not as cheap as it use to be. I’m extra careful with electricity and don’t even get me started on the cost of childcare! I know many a parent that are unable to return to work after their initial parental leave because they can’t afford nurseries fees. It’s all very worrying.

[@clairedemuth4369]

I cut my grocery bill in half when I first started shopping at Aldi in the US. Now I have to shop around at all of the stores nearby (Aldi, Target, Sam's, Walmart, Dollar General) and Amazon to find where items are cheapest, and it isn't by much anymore!

[@janhaenell6311]

You are correct Jane. The only thing I can do is shop the half price specials. Aldi still has the best prices on meat and cheese but there the savings start to disappear. I’m like you I shop 3 different shops but only because they’re close together. Interesting videos Jane. Thanks. Best wishes from Australia 🇦🇺

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@juliemoore6957]

You are absolutely right! My 3 local markets are the same most of the time. Hard to find those really deeply discounted items. Car prices for new or used are insane!

[@joycef8443]

The least expensive market near us is Aldi. The other two I shop at are much more expensive for dairy products , paper products and pet food. The only meat I buy is for my 13 year old dog to entice her..

[@ayela562]

This was the case with us. We are a one car family, we had just paid it off and the engine seized last Spring. We were quoted over 10k to fix it. Used car prices were so bad our savings didn’t come close and they were a terrible deal. They were more than new in some cases because supply was so low. The best deal overall was to finance a small reliable Toyota that we can pay off quick and use it for years. But it was so defeating to want to buy in cash and be thwarted at every turn.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Exactly as I said, forcing people into debt

[@frugalwendy]

We have a 20 year old car that is going to need to be replaced any time now. I absolutely do not want to have a car payment, but that may not be an option. I appreciate you sharing your choice and reasoning behind it -- sounds like a very wise, common sense decision.

[@elizabethpatterson2627]

As usual, you hit the nail on the head. It's harder to make money and there's less of it in our pockets yet we're expected to spend more to get less than what we had in the past.

[@samh1611]

It is all getting very worrying.

[@debbiej4406]

Thank you mentioning the charity shops!! I used to get our family of 5 clothes for the year for under $200. Now a dress there costs $15+. - as much as new! I used to love doing all that shopping too

[@oliviafox6745]

It is more complex currently, but I wonder if it's time for us to push the limits of what we do to save. So thinking along the lines of foraging, bartering, gleaning, mending, multi generational housing, even curbside gleaning might be the way to go.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

All great but none of that will give you a credit score to buy a house. If you're in your 20s, you're likely to never own your own home.

[@mollysmith6055]

We've never gotten Lidl or Aldi and the closest to them was when Walmart with groceries came to town. Like you said, I'm agreeing with your points as you go through this video. I've seen store brands disappear off shelves first and often times never be restocked. This year my gardening has changed...I'm trying to grow more protein by way of dried beans for winter meals. Hoping to save money on our food budget in that way if it is successful.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That's great

[@conniewinter5154]

Excellent video today. Totally agree it is getting harder, but I would add quality of service has plummeted. Companies demand payment up front and then provide poor service or support following purchase. Back in the day you would pay a deposit or half up front but then at least have some negotiating power with final payment if service had been poor or job not to standard these day’s companies have you over a barrel. No longer is the customer always right, in fact everything feels hard work for the consumer.

[@robinwoodstock4906]

We live in the US in Colorado. I agree most prices are very similar from store to store. But we get fuel points for every dollar we spend at our local City Market. They give incentives such as 500 extra fuel points for doing a pick up order over $50 or 4x the fuel points when we shop on Friday. If I work all the incentives I can build up our fuel points and we can get $1 a gallon off of gas. It is a great help.

[@josephinesage8301]

An excellent video Jane. All so true

[@wendygardener2316]

Totally agree!

[@jessieelliott3157]

I believe the younger generation has it harder than previous generations, and whats sad is that im not sure theyve been prepared for it. Im already thinking how we could adapt our home in case we need to do multigenerational living. I dont want my kids to put off their lives (eg marriage and children) until they can afford to move out because it may not ever happen.

[@frugalwendy]

Same here--already thinking about how to accommodate multigenerational living; and we have elderly parents to consider too. I think the difference between the younger generations now and in the past is just like you said-- they are not prepared to deal with the change in lifestyle that is coming (already here). For the majority of them, they appear to have very different ideas than mine of what a want and a need is. They are for sure getting hit with exorbitant expenses in every area. However, when I look around at the twenty-somethings I know they are distressed by the cost of housing, yet feel eating out, having daily takeaway coffees, and buying additional dogs and cats are necessities.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

They’ll want their own home and privacy, they might not ever get it

[@Sam-zs4dl]

I applaud you for making plans for the future. Most of us have raised our kids with ultra high expectations, in a consumeristic society. We now need to be there for them with the new reality they will be facing, a retracting economy as opposed to the 75 years of post WWII expansion. It will be a big adjustment for all of us.

[@teresablack6270]

I agree with so much of what you are saying! Here in the US used car prices are so high it is crazy. I went to one of our charity shops recently and walked out without buying what I found because their prices were so high that I could buy new for just a few dollars more. Middle class folks definitely are having a hard time, money just doesn't stretch 😒

[@cherylT321]

My car is 13 years old. I live near the beach. The downside to that is overtime, the salt water eats at your vehicle. My mechanic told me of a place I could go to that would scrape the rust off the underside of my car for 85 dollars. They did a wonderful job and even cleaned the car engine and washed my car. I then took my car back to my mechanic who, for $150, added rust proofing to the underside…I now have a car that looks brand new inside and out. That car will now probably last me for the next 10 to 15 years if I’m lucky!

[@joycegonzales4994]

Unfortunately you are correct. I haven’t looked in a charity shop lately, but the last time I noticed the prices were higher. On Tuesdays savers does give seniors a 30% savings.

[@terrypelletti8535]

I really enjoyed this video Jane and Michael

[@bettyhowatt8167]

totally agree!!

[@drusillarensel8089]

A fixed income is becoming harder each day for us. Everything keeps going up so much that we buy very little extras. Pet food is really going higher each time we buy it also. I won't switch them to something that wouldn't be as good. If we do find anything even at thrift store it's got to be really marked down. We do shop Aldi, Walmart, and we have an outlet food store that has been a blessing. Eating from the freezer right now. It's just hard.

[@juststoppingby390]

You are so right about the supermarkets. Exactly the same here in Spain. Lidl and Aldi used to be budget stores. Not now. In fact our weekly shop is double what it was a year ago. This means we can afford half of what we once did and even then we were having to be really selective on what we could buy. Now I can't afford enough for a week. I count the tomatoes I buy. Yet hubby has had to take a second job just to be poorer than we were a year ago. My friends are facing the same thing.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Oh heck! That's really bad.

[@sandrafennell6927]

I have lived through inflation as a young married woman trying to buy a home, the Global Financial crisis, and now, again, inflation. Is one worse than the other. Our economies have to keep moving and changing, they won't become stagnant. We have to be more and more creative in the way we deal with these situations, and whatever the situation is, there is always someone who is a lot worse off.

[@stacel1972]

Thank you for another relevant video. I appreciate both of you putting out these videos.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Our pleasure!

[@woman5918]

Agree the prices are similar in all grocery stores goods except for the loss litres advertised weekly which is mostly what I buy and has us stopping at more than one store on grocery shopping day. What is also annoying is the loss litres all have limited quantities and they run out of stock on first day of sale.

[@theclumsyprepper]

I agree with what you have said about earning extra money - it's not easy, and not just because of the jobs being taken over by companies. I am on a low income and I have had a number of people online telling me I should get another job. They don't want to hear that I can't. I have a disability and already work full-time (which is very tiring for someone with fibromyalgia and ME), am a carer for a elderly friend, I grow and preserve my own food and I'm trying to find time for my other half who doesn't live with me. There are only enough hours in the day to be able to fit it all in but people do not wish to consider this. Another thing is that if I was to earn extra money most of it would be swallowed by income tax anyway, since it would put me in a higher tax bracket. That would be counterproductive as far as I'm concerned.

[@mlv3707]

I have noticed that at two different stores; they have now changed something that they did different before. Before I could buy a bigger pack of ham for a better price than if I would buy the smaller package. The big pack for ham is now gone. The rice that I use to buy at another store; I used to buy the big pack; now they only have the small one. So now I have to buy 2 packs of 500gram instead of 1 kilo. It is so strange; I get the feeling like they know how people can lower the cost and they do everything to make it difficult for the customer to save more money. Does anyone else have the same experience?

[@sherryhamill2438]

The secondhand market is out of control. Another place I am really getting sticker shock is in the plant nursery.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re so right

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

I have heard of high prices at plant nurseries too.

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

@@judytieger8976 starting from seed and saving seeds are both good skills to learn. 🌹

[@Essexbird]

Spot on again Jane. There just doesn’t seem to be any way of saving at the moment. I hunt out bargains but just seem to be wasting my time as I’m just not finding any!

[@rubyred8845]

Jane this was a great subject matter and video. In our charity/thrift stores in Australia they try and sell broken bric a brac, who would want to buy that junk? The items are less quality to buy also, for higher prices. The discount stores are also dearer they no longer are a bargain as much as they used to be.

[@Ancient_Pollyanna]

It's been a long time since I saw a bank give away a toaster. I so love your channel! Cheers!

[@sundancer442]

In Australia , we had this in the 90"s and we just just pottered through it. You will get through it too. :)

[@brendarector4194]

I have seen as you have.Rising prices means fewer items in the grocery cart.Likewise on other Canadian essentials.

[@lynnestait8011]

a lot of 'price matching' on certain products from the main supermarkets to the Lidl/Aldi type supermarket but not cheaper - also shocked to see a Tesco brand Tshirt in the Charity shop for not much less than it would have cost new, and probably dearer than in Tescos own sale - I now only get my haircut 3-4 times a year and have stopped colouring it

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Lynne

[@lyndagray173]

Thank you so much for your videos. You both are so inspirational . We have 3 adult sons (21, 26 and 29) still at home. Thankfully they are also thrifty and save but so want their own homes. The only advice we give them is save and use the time you have whilst at home with us wisely. Please god their time will come x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@suematile9078]

Great video!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@carolanne7755]

I agree with you

[@mariecroarkin4899]

You are absolutely right. I have cut back on services such as haircuts and lawn care and now need to do it myself to help make ends meet. Prices in second hand stores have increased and quality of merchandise available there has decreased as more people need to hang on to their old things and repair them rather than bring them to second hand stores or purchase a replacement. It is becoming increasingly difficult to reduce debts as monthly interest rates continue to climb each month so it is much more difficult to put "extra" monthly money toward paying down debt. $100 doesn't fill many grocery bags anymore. Thanks for all of your savings tips in these frustrating times.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@horselover123962]

When going into a second hand shop, it seems like now their prices are the "sale" prices of a regular shop. Nothing is cheap in second hand shops any longer.

[@seekingtheminimumlevel1830]

Completely agree with you. We keep making substitutions and doing without things because they are no longer affordable. Everything except wages are increasing. Every time I go to the grocer, prices are higher on some things. Running out of ways to cut to keep from falling behind.

[@janeyjohnson6847]

Great video, as always. You really hit the nail on the head with how things have changed. We are helping our daughter set up home (in the frugal queen style) and have been shocked by the difference since covid. We went to a charity second hand furniture place that has previously had incredible good quality items dirt cheap, perfect for setting up a home. This weekend there were only tatty items at quite high prices and some items that could have been bought new for the same price.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We agree, they want too much for tatty junk.

[@zitasoregi9340]

We moved to our first home 18 months ago and I tried to buy a few smaller things used/second hand using ebay for example and I was shocked because majority was not really cheaper than a brand new one from a good store. So I went with the new item in the end. You can get lucky if you wait months but that is not always practical. I love a bargain and keep an eye out always, but when you need something on short notice you may as well buy it new (is my experience).

[@SpatchG]

So true Jane and Mike. Here in New Zealand what was our cheapest supermarket is now mostly on a par with what used to be the most expensive supermarket! Never thought I'd be shopping at the most expensive supermarket because they have the best deals this week. Many of the own-brand items from the cheapest supermarket disappeared during the pandemic and have not returned e.g. cornflakes. Our charity stores are charing ridiculous prices for their goods, and friends who work in them have said to me that they have noticed a big drop-off in donations this year. It's getting so tough out there, I really feel for younger people, wages are not keeping up with inflation and rental prices here are nuts.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@laurag7327]

I do my main shop in Tesco and they are doing more Aldi price matches. Aldi is still cheaper for some things, so I do a supplement shop there. I was recently surprised to find Lidl quite expensive compared to Tesco and Aldi.

[@irenedombryant2023]

Supermarkets well over a year ago changed, had made this comment b4, not on your channel but on Prime of Midlife. Something changed with production and manufacturing and "who" owns them. In Ireland from nearly two year's, a lot of supermarkets lost their own branded products. Would say, big brands ( corporations ) have if they don't own them, given production companies no choice but to stop producing these products. Lidl, Aldi, Tesco and Dunnes are good examples of this here, so many special buys and own label items have been gone for well over a year now.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@juliethompson5301]

Our charity shops here have £1 rails and £1 sales .I still won't overpay in a charity shop.

[@stephaniet9264]

In the US we have Goodwill (charity shop). I still am able to get high quality items for much less. The point is to go during the week (which is hard for most as people are working) when it isn't crowded. I always find a good bargain and good quality items.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@sjchan3199]

Also a monday as most people donate at weekend. Friday is when they put their best stuff out for the busy weekend.march and april is sposed to be optimum time to keep an eye on charity thrift shops as this is when most people declutter.

[@sharronmahoney3945]

I remember Netto in the uk before Aldi. You can still swop bank account & there are better deals on isa in the uk. Charity shops here are getting expensive. There’s one l use everything a £1. But now here in the uk car boot have started. And there a lot more people selling this year. Compared to years before. Carboots are a better deals at the minute.

[@tutuluvsminnie7129]

I live in Atlanta, GA, USA and i am retired. I learned how to sew my own clothes as a teenager so i mend my clothes to make them last. As an example, Just today i was sewing a pillowcase that had slightly torn at the bottom seam. it is fine to have a slightly shorter length. We are wearing jeans and shirts that are over 20 years old since we take care of our clothes and hang them to dry (except for towels and sheets go into the dryer). We drive a 1999 sedan so we have no car payments and we only have one car. I no longer go to a manicurist or hair dresser. I have a relative cut my hair and my husband's hair too. We do our own yard work and cook all meals at home from scratch. That saves a lot of money. We eat well and indulge in sweet treats every week. We do take 2 weeks vacation a year -- i used to take 4 weeks but have cut back a bit. I dont feel lacking or cheated at all. I feel happy about what we have, and have adjusted to a more frugal life. When you have the love of family and grandchildren, you don't need anything else.

[@rosemarymallin]

Great video Jane and Mike. You are so right regarding the young people trying to get into the housing market. Here, near Toronto, Canada, the average price for an ordinary house is about a million dollars. Thrift shops are charging quite ridiculous prices. We have the same issues with car prices too. I feel so badly for the youngsters. Keep giving out great advice.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@paulacostello6912]

I don't care if it seems to be impossible. Despite a modest income, I'm still skimming some off the top to pay myself first. What choice do I have? My car is 18 years old and I myself am not getting any younger. I feel like we will cope. We always do.

[@kimc5750]

Sadly all you have presented is universally true. Charity shops in the US are very expensive, the best merchandise never makes it yo the floor, but hoes on their inline auction sites. Also, yes the discount food stores here are at nearly the same rates as the traditional chains. Used car prices are through the roof. Difficult times for so many. Excellent video.

[@lmccarty2201]

Even 5 or now 6 years ago the second hand shops in my area only had over priced rubbish. Not worth my time.