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Saving money doesn’t have to be boring or stressful. Some people take frugal living to the next level by finding creative, unconventional, and even extreme ways to cut costs.
If you’re looking to spend less, save more, and live smarter, this guide is for you! From free food hacks to cutting your bills in half, here are 25 extreme frugal living ideas that actually work.
🛒 1. Food And Grocery Savings
Groceries take up a big chunk of most budgets, but there are plenty of ways to eat well for less. Here’s how to slash your food bill:
1. Dumpster Diving for Free Food
Yes, it sounds crazy, but some people get free food from store dumpsters. Many grocery stores throw out perfectly good food because of damaged packaging or expiration dates. Some bakeries even toss out fresh bread at the end of the day. If you’re open to the idea, check for local laws, wear gloves, and only take food that looks safe to eat.
2. Buy “Ugly” Fruits And Vegetables
Grocery stores often throw away oddly shaped produce because they don’t look “perfect.” But a weird-looking carrot or misshapen apple tastes the same and costs way less. Some stores have a section for discounted “ugly” produce, or you can use services like Imperfect Foods to get them delivered.
3. Cook in Bulk And Freeze Meals
Cooking in large batches saves money and time. Instead of buying frozen meals, cook extra portions and freeze them for later. This way, you avoid wasting food and always have something ready to eat.
4. Grow Your Own Food
You don’t need a big backyard to grow food. Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley can grow in small pots inside your home. If you have outdoor space, try growing tomatoes, lettuce, or potatoes to cut down on grocery costs.
5. Use Cashback & Coupon Apps
Before shopping, check cashback apps like Ibotta or Rakuten for deals. Also, look for digital coupons on store websites. Even small savings add up over time!
2. Household & Utility Savings
Your home expenses—like rent, electricity, and water—can add up quickly. Here are some extreme ways to cut your bills:
6. Only Flush When Necessary
The saying “If it’s yellow, let it mellow” exists for a reason! Flushing the toilet multiple times a day can increase your water bill. If you’re comfortable with it, flush only when necessary.
7. Take Showers at the Gym or Work
If you have a gym membership or work somewhere with showers, use them instead of showering at home. This can cut down your water and heating bills.
8. Make Your Own Cleaning Products
Instead of buying expensive cleaners, mix vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice to make DIY cleaning solutions. They work just as well and cost a fraction of the price.
9. Use Cloth Instead of Paper Towels & Napkins
Switching to washable cloths instead of disposable paper towels can save you money every month. Old t-shirts or towels work great for cleaning!
10. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use 🔌
Even when turned off, many electronics still use power if they’re plugged in. Unplug devices like TVs, microwaves, and chargers to lower your electricity bill.
3. Transportation & Commuting Savings
11. Walk or Bike Instead of Driving
If your workplace or grocery store is nearby, consider walking or biking instead of driving. It saves money on gas, parking, and car maintenance.
12. Use Public Transport or Carpool
Gas prices are high, and cars are expensive to maintain. If possible, use public transport or carpool with coworkers to share costs.
13. Cancel Your Car Insurance If You Don’t Drive Often 🚘
If you rarely use your car, consider switching to pay-per-mile insurance or canceling your policy (if legally allowed in your area).
14. Do Your Own Car Repairs 🔧
Learning how to change your own oil, replace windshield wipers, or fix minor issues can save you hundreds of dollars per year. YouTube tutorials can help!
15. Use Gas Price Apps
Apps like GasBuddy help you find the cheapest gas stations near you. Always check before filling up!
4. Housing And Rent Savings
16. Rent Out a Room or House-Hack
If you have extra space, consider renting out a room on Airbnb or to a long-term tenant. This can help cover your rent or mortgage.
17. Live in a Tiny Home, RV, or Van
Some people ditch traditional housing and live in tiny homes, RVs, or vans to eliminate rent costs. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a great way to save big!
18. House-Sit for Free Rent
House-sitting services let you live rent-free while taking care of someone’s home. Check websites like TrustedHousesitters for opportunities.
19. Move to a Cheaper Area
If your rent is too high, consider moving to a city or state with a lower cost of living.
5. Shopping And Clothing Hacks
20. Buy Second-Hand Clothes And Furniture 👕
Thrift stores, garage sales, and Facebook Marketplace often have like-new clothes and furniture for a fraction of the price.
21. Swap Clothes Instead of Buying New
Host a clothing swap with friends or family. Everyone brings clothes they don’t wear anymore and exchanges them for new outfits—completely free!
22. Repair Instead of Replace
Learn basic sewing to fix torn clothes instead of throwing them away. The same applies to electronics and appliances—try repairing before replacing!
23. Buy Items in Bulk When Prices Drop
For things you use regularly (toilet paper, soap, rice), buy in bulk when there’s a discount. This saves money in the long run.
24. Sign Up for Birthday Freebies
Many restaurants and stores give free food, drinks, and discounts on your birthday! Sign up for reward programs and take advantage of these perks.
25. Avoid Impulse Buying with the 24-Hour Rule ⏳
If you see something you want to buy, wait 24 hours before purchasing. If you still want it the next day and it fits your budget, go for it. If not, you just saved money!
Final Thoughts
Extreme frugal living isn’t for everyone, but even small changes can save you a lot of money over time. Whether you try just a few tips or go all-in, the goal is the same—spend smarter and live better.
💬 Which extreme frugal tip surprised you the most? Have you tried any of these? Share in the comments!
