Saving money isn’t always easy, especially when you’re constantly bombarded with ads about the latest product that you need to buy. But it’s important to get into the habit of saving where you can as you prepare for purchasing a home. But this doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun! Check out some creative ways to start saving below.

NO. 1: MASTER THE 30-DAY RULE

Waiting 30 days to decide on a purchase is a great way to avoid instant gratification. For most people, the urge to purchase something will pass after a month or sooner, so you can save money simply by waiting. Taking time to think gives you a better perspective about whether it’s truly worth the money.  

NO. 2: AVOID STRESS-SPENDING

We all know how tempting it is to enjoy a little retail therapy when we’re stressed, but this is a bad habit to get into. Instead of buying things you don’t need, try meditating, breathing exercises, working out or taking a walk outside to destress. 

NO. 3: CREATE SHOPPING LISTS

Creating a list is one of the easiest ways to save money when shopping. It not only saves time while at the store, but prevents you from making impulse buys or unplanned purchases that waste money. This is especially useful at the grocery store, as it helps you buy items that fit with your weekly meal plan and prevents you from purchasing food that will go to waste. 

NO. 4: PREPARE MEALS AT HOME

Speaking of food, try to spend one day planning out your meals for each week. This prevents you from ordering food and is much healthier! Cooking at home is much easier and more enjoyable than you might think. Pro tip: Use the weekend to prepare some meals in advance.

NO. 5: DRINK MORE WATER

Besides the obvious health benefits, drinking more water can save money by cutting back on the amount of other beverages you purchase at restaurants or the grocery store like soda, juice, tea and especially alcohol. Opt for a refillable water bottle instead of purchasing plastic bottles. 

NO. 6: REFINANCE STUDENT LOANS

Since interest rates are so low, it might make sense to consolidate and/or refinance your student loans. There are so many companies that offer this service, such as SoFi, CommonBond and Earnest, and it’s a relatively simple process. Be sure to shop around for the best interest rate. Consolidating will allow you to keep your loans in one low-rate package. Even a 1% reduction on a $10,000 loan saves you $100 per year, and we’re willing to bet that most loans are bigger than that (and you will probably get a bigger rate cut, too).

NO. 7: TURN OFF THE LIGHTS

Simple steps can be done to stop wasting electricity. Turn off the lights in your house when you aren’t using them or when there’s enough natural light in the room. Turn the TV off when you aren’t actually watching what’s on there. Opt for a cozy sweater and socks instead of cranking up the heat. This will help cut down your utility bills over time. 

NO. 8: BUY USED WHEN YOU CAN

You can usually find the exact item you’re looking for with some browsing at used equipment stores, consignment shops or online. Try to make it a habit to search these places first when looking for potential items and it can save you money. 

NO. 9: DRESS MINIMALLY

Let’s be honest, most of us wear only a handful of the clothes that we have in our closet. Try to buy basics that mix and match well and can be reused more often to create different outfits. With just 7 pants and 10 shirts you already have plenty of options!

NO. 10: CHECK OUT FREE EVENTS

It doesn’t always have to cost money to have fun. Get outdoors and go hiking, play sports at your local park and attend free local events and festivals.