15 Things Frugal People Don’t Do to Save Money

I love everything about frugality and I began my frugality journey when my son was first born. I learned a lot about what frugal people do and started to implement it into my life and I quickly saw my savings start to increase. As I have learned a lot on my journey and I continue to learn a lot about frugality today, I would like to share some of what i have learned with you in this post.

When it comes to saving money, we often focus on what frugal people do. But what is just as important are the things frugal people don’t do. The habits that help them cut costs, avoid unnecessary expenses, and live within their means.

Number One - Frugal People Don’t Shop Without a Purpose

Frugal people don’t go shopping without a plan. Window shopping often turns into impulse buying, so they avoid it altogether. When they shop, it’s with a specific purpose such as groceries, home repairs, or Christmas gifts. Frugal people do much research before they buy to be able to know exactly where to find the best deals.

Number Two - Frugal People Don’t Pay Retail Prices

Paying full retail price is rare for frugal individuals. They utilize cashback apps, coupons, and discount codes, or shop secondhand by going to Facebook Marketplace, charity shops and even car boot sales. Even if frugal people prefer buying brand new, they ensure they’re getting the best possible deal available.

Number Three - Frugal People Don’t Impulse Buy

Impulse buying is a big no for frugal people (although frugal people are not perfect and they may slip up now and again). Instead, they add items to their cart or wish list and wait 24 - 48 hours (or even better wait for 30 days) before making a decision. During this time, they evaluate whether it’s a need or just a fleeting want and that initial fear of missing out feeling passes and most of the time decide to delete from the basket.

Number Four - Frugal People Don’t Pay for Services They Can Do Themselves

Frugal individuals tackle DIY projects where possible. From mending clothes to minor home repairs, they’ll attempt it themselves first by learning how to do things on YouTube or seeking advice from a family member or friend. However, frugal people also know when to call a professional for safety-critical tasks like electrical or plumbing work.

Number Five -Frugal People Don’t Throw Things Away Without a Second Thought

Frugal people always look for ways to repurpose, sell, or donate items before discarding them. They’re equally mindful about food waste by freezing leftovers or food about to reach their use by date, frugal people also use up near-expiry ingredients, or find creative recipes to prevent throwing food away.

Number Six - Frugal People Don’t Maintain Multiple Subscriptions

Subscription services can quietly drain your wallet. Frugal people minimize this by rotating their subscriptions (e.g., Netflix, Disney+, or Prime) and canceling any they no longer use. Frugal people regularly review these subscription expenses to ensure they’re not paying for unnecessary services.

Number Seven - Frugal People Don’t Buy Bottled Water

Buying bottled water is an expense frugal people avoid. Instead, they invest in a high-quality water filter, which saves money in the long run all the while reducing plastic waste. You can purchase one from Amazon at around £25 which needs changing every 4 - 6 months which will save you money and look after your health.

Number Eight - Frugal People Don’t Chase the Latest Technology

Rather than buying the newest gadgets, frugal people stick with their current devices until they no longer function. If they need an upgrade, they’ll consider refurbished options before purchasing new ones. Frugal people often have a sim only card rather than a contract which will again save a good amount of money each month.

Number Nine - Frugal People Don’t Buy Items Just Because They’re on Sale

Everyone loves a bargain however a sale is only a good deal if it’s something you need or planned to buy. Frugal individuals resist the temptation to purchase discounted items unless it aligns with their needs or goals, such as stocking up on out-of-season clothes for the following year.

Number Ten - Frugal People Don’t Waste Leftovers

Frugal people embrace leftovers, which can be used for a lunch for work or a dinner in the week. Frugal people often cook extra to use for future meals especially if money becomes a struggle later on in the month. If meals are not consumed immediately, they’re frozen for a convenient meal on busy days.

Number Eleven - Frugal People Don’t Keep an Empty Freezer

A full freezer is a money-saving tool for frugal people. Frugal individuals stock up on sale items and batch-cooked meals and snacks to ensure they always have affordable, ready-to-eat options at home for each meal of the day.

Number Twelve - Frugal People Don’t Skip Clearance Sections

My favourite place in the supermarket is the clearance section, which are goldmines for frugal shoppers. Whether it’s discounted meat, fruit, vegetables, or pantry staples, they take advantage of these deals to stock their freezer or pantry. If there are pantry staples in the clearance section most of the time it is due to the packaging being damaged not its use by date. If you don’t mind a ripped box or a dented tin you can get some great bargains in the clearance section.

Number Thirteen -Frugal People Don’t Skip Debt Repayments

Paying off debt is a priority for frugal people. It helps them avoid costly late fees and reduces financial stress in the long term. Debt repayments are treated as a non-negotiable part of their budget. Frugal people do not own a credit card if they do not know how to use it correctly and be able to pay off the bills each month to avoid going into debt in the first place.

Number Fourteen - Frugal People Don’t Value Money Over Time

Frugal people often choose to invest their time learning new skills or fixing items themselves instead of spending money. Whether it’s sewing a torn shirt or troubleshooting a home appliance, they prioritize resourcefulness. Frugal people will utilise free online courses such as Alison.com where you can take a range of courses for free you can check them out here - Frugal people will also use YouTube to learn a new skill to improve their future and help save money.

Number Fifteen - Frugal People Don’t Rely on a Single Source of Income

Frugal individuals diversify their income streams. From selling unwanted items to starting side hustles they can do in their spare time. Frugal people ensure they are not entirely dependent on only one paycheck. This added financial security helps them with unforeseen challenges as well as help them with their mental health.

What Would You Add?

These are just a few habits that frugal people, myself included, avoid to help save money for the future. Are there any others that come to mind? Share your tips in the comments below for us to all learn from each other!

If you found this post helpful, share it with someone who might benefit. For more tips on budgeting, saving money, and frugal living, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog and head over to my YouTube channel Solo Mum to One!

Until next time

Rachel