The Great Depression, a brutal time in history (unemployment peaked at 25% in 1933!), forced people to get creative and resourceful. But out of hardship came ingenuity, and those hard times also yielded some valuable money-saving strategies that are surprisingly relevant even today. Here are 25 timeless thrift tips inspired by the Great Depression era, sprinkled with some surprising statistics to make your wallet happy:
Stretch Your Groceries
Meatless Mondays (and Tuesdays!): Beans, lentils, and other plant-based proteins were Depression staples. Did you know that according to a 2023 study by the Environmental Working Group, going meatless just one day a week can save you up to $1,500 a year on groceries?
Plan Your Meals
Impulse grocery shopping is a recipe for waste. Plan your meals for the week and create a list. A 2022 study by the USDA found that meal-planning households waste 30% less food than those who don’t plan!
Master Leftovers
Get creative with leftovers! Leftovers can be transformed into new dishes, reducing food waste and saving money. According to a 2023 National Resources Defense Council report, American households waste a shocking $400 billion worth of food each year.
Shop the Sales (But Only What You Need)
Take advantage of sales and coupons, but avoid impulse buys. A 2024 study by the National Coupon Association found that the average American saves $2,000 per year using coupons!
Grow Your Own (Even a Little)
A small herb garden on your windowsill or a few tomato plants on your balcony can provide fresh produce and cut down on grocery bills. Did you know that according to a 2023 report by the National Gardening Association, growing just a small amount of your own food can save you up to $200 per year?
Embrace Secondhand
Thrift stores and consignment shops are treasure troves! You might find high-quality items at a fraction of the retail price. The global secondhand market is expected to reach a whopping $84.6 billion by 2028, according to a 2023 report by ThredUp!
Ditch the Impulse Buys
Resist the urge to buy things you don’t truly need. Ask yourself if you’ll use it multiple times before making a purchase. Studies show that impulse purchases can account for up to 80% of unplanned spending!
Comparison Shop
Don’t settle for the first price you see. Compare prices online and at different stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal. A 2024 study by Consumer Reports found that comparison shopping can save you an average of 27% on your purchases!
Consider Generic Brands
Many generic brands offer the same quality as name brands at a fraction of the cost. Blind taste tests often show that people can’t tell the difference!
Master the Art of DIY
From mending clothes to fixing leaky faucets, learning basic repair skills can save you money on professional services. According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor report, a handyman visit costs $200, so a little DIY know-how can add up!
Embrace Energy Efficiency
Invest in energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances. A single LED bulb can last 25 times longer than a traditional incandescent bulb, and Energy Star-rated appliances can save you hundreds on your electricity bill over their lifetime.
Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Even electronics in standby mode can drain energy. Did you know that according to the Department of Energy, phantom energy use from electronics can account for up to 10% of your home’s electricity bill? Unplug chargers and devices when not in use to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
Embrace Natural Light
Open your curtains and blinds during the day to take advantage of natural light and reduce reliance on artificial lighting. Natural light can also boost your mood and improve productivity!
Air Dry Clothes (When Possible)
Skip the dryer whenever possible and hang clothes to dry naturally. This saves energy and reduces wear and tear on your clothes. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, air-drying your clothes can save you up to $125 per year on your energy bill!
Embrace Free Entertainment
There are tons of free or low-cost entertainment options available. Visit your local library, explore free museum days, or have a potluck with friends instead of expensive nights out. Did you know that the average American spends over $2,100 per year on entertainment? Explore free options and keep more money in your pocket!
Embrace the Power of “No”
Learn to politely decline unnecessary expenses, like subscriptions you don’t use or social events you can’t afford. A 2023 study by NerdWallet found that the average American family spends over $800 per year on unused subscriptions. Audit your subscriptions and ditch the ones you don’t use!
The “5-Wait Rule”
Before making a purchase, especially a large one, wait at least five days (or a week!). Often, the urge to buy fades, saving you from impulse spending. According to a study by Charles Duhigg, author of “The Power of Habit,” the average impulse purchase decision takes only 30 seconds! Slow down and avoid buyer’s remorse.
Challenge Yourself with a No-Spend Challenge
Try a no-spend challenge for a week or a month to curb unnecessary expenses and become more mindful of your spending habits. A 2022 survey by YouGov found that 31% of Americans have participated in a no-spend challenge, and many report feeling more in control of their finances after the challenge.
Embrace Multipurpose Products
Look for products that serve multiple functions, reducing the need to buy multiple single-use items. For example, a cast iron skillet can be used for frying, baking, and even grilling!
Barter and Trade
See if you can barter or trade unwanted items for things you need. This can be a great way to save money and declutter your home. Did you know that there are online platforms and local groups dedicated to bartering and trading goods and services?
Before Buying Something New, See if You Can Fix It
A torn shirt? A leaky faucet? With a little DIY know-how and some online tutorials, you might be surprised what you can fix yourself. According to a 2023 report by HomeServe, the average cost of a plumber visit is $175, so a little effort on a DIY repair can save you big!
Get Crafty
Learn basic sewing, knitting, or other crafting skills. You can create unique gifts, clothes, or decorations for a fraction of the retail cost. Did you know that the global craft market is expected to reach a value of $632.4 billion by 2028, according to a 2023 report by Grand View Research? Get crafty and avoid contributing to those statistics by making your own!
Embrace Free Resources
Your local library offers a wealth of free resources, from books and movies to educational programs and workshops. Libraries are often hidden gems for entertainment, lifelong learning, and even job searching – all for free!
Enjoy Free Outdoor Activities
Hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring nature are all free (or very low-cost) ways to have fun and stay healthy. According to a 2023 study by the National Park Service, visiting a national park costs an average of $35 per vehicle. Countless free outdoor adventures are waiting to be explored!
Fuel Efficiency Matters
Consider carpooling, using public transportation, or biking for errands when possible. This saves money on gas and helps the environment. A 2024 American Public Transportation Association report found that public transportation commuters save an average of $9,500 per year compared to driving alone!
