50 simple things you can do today to start saving money

With bills creeping up, especially with rising tensions in the Middle East affecting energy prices, it can feel like our wallets are under constant attack. While we can’t control geopolitics, we can make small tweaks in our daily life that add up to big savings.

Here are 50 simple ways you can save money today.

Food and drink

1. Swap branded products for supermarket own brands. You’ll often save a lot without noticing any difference in taste.
2. Make your own ‘fakeaways’ at home instead of ordering takeouts. Cheaper, healthier and still indulgent.
3. Brew your coffee at home instead of buying takeaway drinks. Your wallet will definitely thank you.
4. Plan meals ahead to avoid last-minute expensive options. You’ll waste less food and money.
5. Use leftovers creatively, turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s lunch.
6. Buy fruit and veg in season. You’ll get better quality for less.
7. Buy loose fruit and veg instead of pre-packaged ones. It's usually cheaper and often more fresh. 
8. Compare unit prices when shopping, bigger packs aren’t always cheaper.
9. Cook in bulk and freeze portions. You’ll save time and money.
10. Swap expensive snacks for homemade alternatives. Popcorn is really easy to make, just heat some kernels in a pan of oil.

Household savings

11. Swap branded cleaning products for homemade alternatives using vinegar, water and a few drops of washing-up liquid.
12. Switch branded toiletries for supermarket own-label versions. You’ll barely notice the difference.
13. Refill a water bottle instead of buying bottled water. You’ll save money and do your bit for the environment.
14. Spring’s here, time to swap the tumble dryer for the outdoor washing line.
15. Turn off appliances at the plug when not in use. Phantom energy costs add up.
16. Use energy-efficient bulbs. They last longer and cost less over time.
17. Lower your thermostat by a degree or two, you’ll save money without feeling chilly.
18. Seal drafts around doors and windows to keep heat in and bills down.
19. Wash clothes at lower temperatures. Your clothes and your bills will thank you.
20. Take shorter showers to save on water heating costs.

Entertainment and lifestyle

21. Swap multiple streaming services for one at a time. Rotate subscriptions each month to save each month.
22. Swap nights out for nights in with friends or family. Fun doesn’t have to be expensive.
23. Borrow books from the library instead of buying new ones.
24. Cancel gym memberships you rarely use and exercise at home or outdoors for free.
25. Attend free local events instead of paid ones. The National Trust lists great free places to visit.
26. Use cashback and discount apps before buying anything online or in-store. Apps like JamDoughnut, Airtime Rewards and Shopmium, could save you money every month.
27. Swap cinema trips for movie nights at home. It's cosier and cheaper.
28. Look for student, loyalty, or membership discounts whenever possible.
29. DIY your hobbies when you can. Crafts, home projects, and gifts save you buying expensive kits or presents.
30. Share subscriptions with friends or family where you can.

Health and wellness

31. Save on prescription charges with a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC).
32. Check if you’re eligible for free prescriptions.
33. Compare insurance quotes regularly, you could save hundreds per year.
34. Using DIY weights, or join a parkrun. Check out our 40 ways to get fit for free. 
35. Limit expensive fitness classes, many online options are free.
36. Prepare meals for healthier eating and reduced food costs.
37. Avoid impulse purchases at health food stores, plan your treats.
38. Grow your own herbs or salad greens. It’s fresh and cheap!
39. Walk or cycle instead of using the car for short trips. Your health and wallet will benefit.
40. Schedule routine health checks, preventive care could save you in the long run.

Shopping and finance

41. Make a shopping list and stick to it, avoiding impulse buys can lead to big savings.
42. Use loyalty cards and reward schemes consistently.
43. Buy second-hand items when you can, such as clothes, furniture and electronics.
44. Negotiate bills where possible, like broadband or mobile contracts.
45. See if you’re eligible for social tariffs, cheaper broadband and phone packages for people receiving certain benefits.
46. Set a budget and track every pound you spend. Use our free budget calculator to see where you can make cuts.
47. Use gift cards or vouchers before they expire.
48. Cancel subscriptions you rarely use, such as streaming, apps and magazines.
49. Opt for free digital versions of magazines or newspapers.
50. Make a ‘no-spend’ challenge for a week or month, you’ll be surprised how much you can save.