Saving money can be rough. You see that item online that you reallllllly want, but deep down you know you should save your money for university, college, a car, or even a trip. Having a job is obviously the main way to make money. However, there are little things you can do every day to save cents, and still keep your sanity. 

Make your coffee/tea at home

woman holding travel mug
Photo by Timothy Eberly via Unsplash

We all enjoy walking into a cafe and ordering a warm beverage, especially in winter. But you can save at least $3 every day by making tea or grinding and brewing coffee at home. This means that you can save about $975 if you buy your own tea bags (20 pack for $4 x 18) or coffee beans (a $14 bag that lasts a month x 12)!

Thrift!

woman sitting in thrift store
Photo by Brooke Cagle via Unsplash

You may not even need $20 in your pocket! Grab some friends and make a day out of it! Go to your local thrift store(s) when you’re looking for some new items for your wardrobe or room! You can save money and the environment at the same time by reusing or repurposing previously loved items. It’s so fun and you often walk away with totally unique pieces! 

Share with friends

clothing rack, saving money
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez via Unsplash

Besides thrifting, you can arrange a clothing swap with your friends! You are giving each other nice items that you once loved. However, you aren’t paying anything for them. In fact, you’re saving them from the landfill!

Check your local “Buy and Sell”

laptop and coffee
Photo by Sincerely Media via Unsplash

Thinking you want to spruce up your space with a new dresser, bedside table, desk, or anything else? Check online at your local “Buy and Sell” and see what you can find! If you see something you like but the colour is dated, then grab some paint and make it a fun project!

Pack your lunch

meal prep salads
Photo by Ella Olsson via Unsplash

Not only can it be a healthier option, but making your own lunch is much more affordable than eating out. And you don’t have to spend tons of time on it; bagels, sandwiches, wraps or soup are customizable and easy. You’ll save money and time by preparing!

Go to your local library or used book store

woman lying on floor with books, saving money
Photo by Joe Ciciarelli via Unsplash

There are some of us who love holding a brand new, crisp-paged, shiny book, but that book can cost a ton! Even if you like to read a book more than once, it can almost always be an option for you to borrow it from your local library. If you cannot find it there, check out your local used book store for better prices! Saving money doesn’t take more effort!