17 Socially Unacceptable Frugal Hacks That Should Be Normalized, Sara Conklin Says
Saving money sometimes comes with judgment. A raised eyebrow at the dinner table, a joke about being cheap, or a look that says you didn't have to do that. But when someone else's opinion costs you money, it’s time to rethink your choices.
Here are 17 frugal habits that financial coach Sara Conklin said we should normalize. While some of these hacks may feel embarrassing, Conklin said they move the needle.
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1. Take Home the Bread (and Everything Else Already Given)
If a restaurant provides you with bread, butter, packets of sauce, or other extras, take them home if you’re going to use them. Conklin’s grandmother famously asked for leftover bread rather than throw it away.
The same is true of any extra napkins or condiments you may have received. It doesn’t make sense to throw away useful things because it feels awkward to take them home.
2. Ask About Markdowns at the Deli or Bakery Counter
Deli and bakeries often discount items as they near their sell-by dates. Ask the staff when they usually do markdowns and plan your shopping accordingly.
A discounted item may be the same product you would have bought at full price; you just have less time to use it.
3. Bring Your Own Snacks When Allowed
Movie theaters, stadiums, and other venues can add hefty markups to food and drinks. If outside food or drinks are allowed, bring your own snack or water instead of paying those prices. Just follow the venue's rules instead of trying to sneak food in where it shouldn't be.
4. Split One Restaurant Entree
Restaurant portions can be large enough to feed two people. Share an entree and order an additional plate instead of ordering two meals that neither person will finish.
5. Drive a Few Extra Minutes for Cheaper Gas
It’s not always worth a special trip to find a cheaper gas station, but sometimes the math works out.
If you’re already going that way or the station is only a few minutes away, calculate your savings by the size of your tank. A little difference per gallon can be meaningful savings over many fill-ups.
6. Wash and Reuse Ziploc Bags
Some food-storage bags are washable and reusable. Instead of tossing them after one use, Conklin suggests doing this for foods like bread, crackers or cheese, not raw meat.
7. Ask for a Discount on Damaged or Dented Items
Buying something with a dent, scratch or damaged packaging could mean more savings, especially if you ask for a discount.
“You might save 10 to 30% for asking a question that costs you nothing," said Conklin.
8. Wear Thrifted Clothes To Special Events
You don’t have to buy a new outfit for every wedding or special event. A secondhand dress can look as smart as something bought brand new.
9. Skip a Shower Some Days
I know this sounds weird, but Conklin said you don’t need a full shower every 24 hours, especially if you haven't sweated or been outside. She says skipping a shower sometimes to conserve water and products.
10. Brag About How Little You Paid
Instead of being embarrassed by a bargain, brag about it. A $14 clearance dress or $11 thrifted purse can be more impressive than something expensive.
11. Use the Library Instead of Buying Books
Libraries can provide you with access to books, new releases, e-books, audiobooks, and movies without you having to buy everything you want to consume. If you love a book enough to read it again, Conklin said you can always buy it later.
12. Use Your Bath Towel More Than Once
You don’t need a clean towel every shower, provided that you hang it somewhere it can dry completely. Using it more than once can help you reduce laundry, detergent, water, and energy use.
13. Keep Using Things That Look Old
Just because something has a scratch or is an outdated style doesn’t mean it needs replacing. If your car still runs well or your furniture is still in working condition, the looks alone might not justify the upgrade.
14. Regift Unused Items
If you have something unopened that someone else would love to have, there’s no reason to let it sit in your closet unused. A scented candle or kitchen gadget can find a new home as a gift.
15. Borrow Tools Instead of Buying Them
If you’ll only use a tool once or twice, ask a friend or neighbor if you can borrow it instead of buying it. Return it on time, wash it, and replace what you used.
16. Skip the Tip at Self-Service Counters
If you ordered from a screen, served yourself and cleaned your table, you don't have to tip just because the payment terminal asks.
17. Say When Something Costs More Than You Want To Spend
Instead of inventing an excuse when you don't want to spend money, simply say: “That's more than I want to spend. Can we pick someplace else?”
Getting comfortable saying that out loud can make every other frugal choice easier because you're no longer trying to prove that you can afford everything.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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